We have the most amazing librarians at our Kalispell library. The children’s section in particular is spectacular. One of the programs they hold is storytime at the local outdoor pool – during the summer. We get to have storytime, and then some cool toys are brought out for a little playtime before the pool opens for the day. Rost takes after me in the fact that he is not a fan of cold water but we both still had a really great time playing with our friends and a special water-related story.
Rost turned 19 months old while he and I were visiting my family & friends back in Pennsylvania. Don’t worry, you’ll only be getting these monthly updates until he turns two, then posts will resume back to life events.
One of my very dear friends in Montana made the trek from Missoula to Kalispell for a quick visit with her youngest two. We had a great day tossing sand at the beach in Whitefish and searching for beautiful rocks in Glacier. I miss these days with you dear friend, even if they look a little different today than they did in days past.
A second trip to bike the Going to the Sun Road had me turned around before reaching the end point yet again. My first trip out was rained out – something I now need to take into account when adventuring with Rost. This time, a grizzly bear decided the road was (rightfully) his (or hers). Another day, another adventure! Guess I’ll just have to try again.
Living only thirty minutes outside of Glacier National Park definitely has its benefits. One of those is quick and easy access to the Going to the Sun road.
Each year the road opens first to hikers and bikers. I’ve had the chance to bike the road during this time once before when I lived in Missoula. This particular trip biking the road was rained out but I plan on taking full advantage of the close proximity for years to come.
The moment you slip into those soothing waters, the worries and stresses just melt away. The earthy scent, the gentle heat, and the mineral-infused waters create a unique symphony of relaxation for both body and soul. It’s a special kind of serenity that only those who’ve immersed themselves in hot springs can truly understand. While I prefer natural hot springs out in the middle of nowhere, I’m not one to pass up the chance to sit in hot water since our home no longer has the creature comforts of a tub.
The last month has definitely centered around spending time with family and friends.
Sadly, it also included Rost’s first trip (of what I’m sure will be many for this little mountain goat) to the ER. After exhibiting a fever of 102.8 and difficulty breathing we took him in one night. After 4 hours of waiting we got the diagnosis of an ear infection. Due to my history of ear infections as a child, which resulted in multiple sets of tubes, I hope this kid has his father’s ear canals.
We missed the wedding of our wonderful friends in New Zealand due to Covid lockdowns. Thankfully (for us), this also caused them to pause their honeymoon plans, which correlated with our move back to Montana. We spent a wonderful day hanging out with them in Kalispell before their great North American road trip continued.
My dear, sweet boy. A month has already gone by and I cannot begin to describe what this month has been like. I hope that someday I will have the words to tell you all about this time, but for now, please accept this photo diary in their absence.
PLF’s goal trip for 2020 was moved back to late August this year due to Covid 19 travel restrictions. You won’t find me complaining about having to wait a few months longer for a room with a private pool…
