OnLocation North Idaho

Colors of Autumn

2010-10-18T17:29:00.000-07:00

Fall color is visible in this view of Coeur d'Alene from Potlatch Hill Road. The world-famous Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf course in the foreground will end their golfing season on October 23.

Last Splash of the Season

2010-09-03T09:47:00.000-07:00

Although Silverwood Theme Park is open weekends through September, Labor Day weekend is the last chance to splash in their Boulder Beach waterpark. Two wave pools, a lazy river with a swim up bar, water slides ... great place to be on location!
* my photogenic and fellow sun-loving friend Stephanie Smith enjoying the lazy river at Boulder Beach.

Summer Swan Song

2010-08-26T22:18:00.000-07:00

While wading in the Spokane River at Corbin Park, on what was likely the last 90+ degree day of summer, I watched a solitary golden leaf float by. Summer may be brief in northern Idaho but it's truly spectacular.

Diamond Cup

2010-08-22T11:37:00.000-07:00

The big boats of yesteryear's Diamond Cup Races once again graced the Lake City of Coeur d'Alene. The regatta raised funds for the Museum of North Idaho.

Early Bird Special

2010-08-19T08:16:00.000-07:00

My husband sees far more sunrises than I do, and he photographed the early morning view looking east from the Rathdrum Prairie on his way to work on Wednesday.

Home!

2010-08-11T07:38:00.000-07:00

After nearly two weeks on location in Montana and North Dakota, we're happy to be back home again. My husband, Bert and our dog, Annie celebrate at Exit O atop Lookout Pass at the Idaho/Montana state line. In the ten minutes or so we were there at the Idaho sign we visited with families from Illinois, Kansas, Nevada and California, who had also stopped to get a photo. For most of them it was their first time to see our state and I must say that the view from there is a great introduction to Idaho.

Julyamsh 2010

2010-07-26T23:30:00.000-07:00

Another extraordinary visual of our Native people in celebration on their ancestral homeland in Post Falls, Idaho. The Coeur d'Alene Tribe welcomed over 1,000 dancers and drummers from around the country and Canada for the three-day pow wow and tribal encampment. This stunning photograph of Nathan Chasing Horse (Lakota Soiux) was taken by my friend, Jahn Schmitz, who experienced Julyamsh for the first time this year. An album of my OnLocation pow wow photographs HERE.

On the beaten path

2010-07-19T23:40:00.001-07:00

Sometimes you don't have to leave home to see the incredible masterpieces Mother Nature creates. In the flowers alongside my driveway I paused to watch this butterfly sip the nectar. It's mornings and scenes like this that make us happy to be alive in this little corner of North Idaho paradise.

North Idaho "Sand" Castle

2010-07-14T23:14:00.001-07:00

Don't get me wrong, I love a tropical white sand beach as much as the next guy but the banks of our rivers are not created for playing in the sand. We float, we raft, we swim and kayak. Then there's jet skiing, wake boarding, sail boarding and good old fashioned swimming. Time on shore under the summer sun does provide the chance to create in a different way ... stacking a "castle" of river rocks.

In Plain Sight

2010-07-10T21:47:00.000-07:00

Alongside Coeur d'Alene River Road in the Coeur d'Alene National Forest a white tail doe stands sentry in the brush. Two fawns waited across the road to join their mother.

Wild turkeys

2010-07-08T15:47:00.000-07:00

On my way into Coeur d'Alene this mornng a hen turkey and at least 15 chicks (known as poults) were crossing E. Riverview Road. As I came around the corner the mother and about half the chicks crossed and the other chicks ran back to the other side of the road to hide in the rocks. I snapped a couple of photos and went on my way, certain the family of wild turkeys would be reunited.

Beach Time!

2010-07-07T10:02:00.000-07:00

It took summer a while to get to North Idaho but it has definately arrived. Temperatures this week in the 90s will inspire lots of beach-going. Coeur d'Alene city beach is a popular place to cool off on a hot day!

Celebrating North Idaho

2010-07-06T10:21:00.001-07:00

We know how to put on parades in this neck of the woods, from small towns to big cities ... a block long or miles long, everyone loves a parade. The American Heroes 4th of July parade in Coeur d'Alene was a Norman Rockwell slice of American life. An exuberant Madison Leonard, newly-minted America's Junior Miss who hails from Hayden Lake, was making her first hometown appearance since winning the title in Mobile, Alabama last month. Parade images HERE.

Arrrrr ...

2010-07-01T16:25:00.001-07:00

A pirate ship was sighted on Lake Coeur d'Alene, filled with little mateys and pirates or three for the maiden voyage of the Pirates of the Coeur d'Alenes on the first day of July. The new attraction is part of Lake Coeur d'Alene Cruises.

Mountain top view

2010-07-01T09:20:00.000-07:00

The majority of the photographs I've posted here for years, I've taken from not too far off the beaten North Idaho path. But if you're willing to ride a dirt bike several miles through the forest to an elevation of over 5,000 feet, like my husband did the last weekend of June, you can see some incredible views. Atop Grizzly Peak in the Coeur d'Alene National Forest, Bert even found snow!

Ironman finish line

2010-06-26T21:47:00.000-07:00

Just hours from the Sunday morning start of the 2010 Ironman Coeur d'Alene, preparations are taking place. The finish line for these athletes, after swimming 2.4 miles, biking 112 miles and running 26.2 miles, is shown in front of the white VIP tent in downtown Coeur d'Alene. Over 2,500 athletes hope to hear their name called out over the loudspeaker as they are declared Ironmen! More photos HERE.

Osprey

2010-06-25T11:04:00.000-07:00

The 11th Annual Osprey Boat Cruise is being held July 10, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The Natural Resources Committee of the Coeur d'Alene Chamber of Commerce invites the community to participate in this annual cruise on Lake Coeur d'Alene to view the Osprey and their nests with representatives from the Raptor Chapter, Idaho Fish & Game, and the Nature Conservancy providing commentary.
Don't forget your camera! 208-415-0105 or Karen@CdAChamber.com for details.

*I took this photograph on the Spokane River across from RedLion Templin's Resort.

Ironman eve

2010-06-25T10:26:00.000-07:00

Three days before the incredible athletes of Ironman Coeur d'Alene hit the water to begin their adventure, Coeur d'Alene's city park and beach are relatively uncrowded. Over the next few days the family and friends of the 2,500 athletes will arrive, along with thousands of spectators to this beautiful city on the lake.
Ongoing Ironman Coeur d'Alene coverage through the weekend HERE.

Lawn Mower Drag Races

2010-06-14T10:58:00.001-07:00

This is the 10th annual running of the Big Back-In Lawn Mower Drags down Maine Street in Spirit Lake on Father's Day. If you have yet to experience the unique mountain man ambiance of downtown Spirit Lake, it's a must. Fun for the whole family, including the dog.

Small Town Scenes

2010-06-14T10:36:00.000-07:00

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life here in North Idaho, it's easy to forget why we love where we live. Even more than the beautiful lakes, rivers and mountains, it's the lifestyle. Where else can you not be surprised to see a couple of gals out for a horseback ride in town on a Saturday afternoon, like these ladies in Post Falls?

Free Fishing!

2010-06-11T07:10:00.000-07:00

Idaho's Free Fishing Day is an annual event held the second Saturday of June. Idaho Fish and Game invites all anglers, residents and nonresidents, to celebrate the day by fishing Idaho's waters without a license.
If you've never been fishing, Free Fishing Day is also a great day to learn. Fish and Game personnel and volunteers will be at numerous free events at local fishing waters throughout the state to help first time anglers discover the joys of fishing. There will be loaner rods and reels available at Falls Park in Post Falls and Ponderosa Springs Golf Course in Coeur d'Alene.

Come visit!

2010-06-09T12:03:00.000-07:00

We're saved a front row seat for you in beautiful North Idaho and summer's on its way!

On emerald pond ...

2010-06-06T19:04:00.000-07:00

A family of Canada goslings practice swimming in the pond at Falls Park in Post Falls. On North Idaho lakes and rivers, young wildlife are learning the ropes.

Down river

2010-06-05T22:14:00.000-07:00

We've had one of the wettest springs on record, following one of the least snowiest winters on record. As the rainfall caused some flooding in Coeur d'Alene, the Post Falls dam on the Spokane River had the gates wide open, making for some roaring scenery at Falls Park. The viewing platforms at the dam were the best place to be on a Saturday afternoon.

North Idaho version of National Lampoon's Vacation

2010-05-31T21:19:00.001-07:00

Looks like Clark and Ellen Griswold are bringing the family up north to Silverwood Theme Park for their 2010 vacation.

May showers

2010-05-31T20:26:00.001-07:00

The month of May went out with downpouring rain but summer's just around the corner in North Idaho.

Squirrel Picnic

2010-05-07T09:33:00.000-07:00

Not all wildlife viewing in North Idaho takes place in the wild. This neighborhood squirrel was thrilled with his tasty treasure.

Million $ Views

2010-05-03T07:05:00.000-07:00

You can't put a price tag on the scenic views of North Idaho but this one has to be right up there. Valerie Wilcox captured the view from her back door in Syringa Heights, above Lake Coeur d'Alene. Arrow Point is visible in the distance.

Bergonias in bloom

2010-04-23T08:22:00.000-07:00

Bergonias bloom beneath the marble murals of epic US military battles in the Ronald D. Rankin Veterans Memorial Plaza at the Kootenai County Courthouse in Coeur d'Alene.

The skinny

2010-04-18T18:55:00.001-07:00

My sister, Janna was out for a Sunday drive on a beautiful 65-degree day in North Idaho when she spotted this couple in a long and lean canoe-type vessel on Fernan Lake in Coeur d'Alene.

Shoosh into Spring

2010-04-02T06:37:00.001-07:00

Great late season skiing awaits in North Idaho. From $10 lift tickets at Schweitzer to free skiing for all at Lookout Pass Recreation Area (pictured) this weekend, it's a skier and boarder paradise!

Goose babies

2010-04-02T06:22:00.000-07:00

Even though North Idaho is under a winter storm watch heading into Easter weekend, there are springtime arrivals to be found. Canada goslings on the Spokane River, near North Idaho College in Coeur d'Alene, test their aquatic skills.

Come Visit!

2010-03-26T16:22:00.000-07:00

Mike Matteo places one of 108 tiles in the 12' X 9' mural in the main reception area of the new Post Falls Chamber Visitor Center. The mural is a photograph of the falls with the flood gates wide open. The city center building is nearing completion, expected to open in late April.

Here's the church ...

2010-03-14T21:21:00.000-07:00

The spires of historic St. Thomas Catholic Church in downtown Coeur d'Alene are visible over the tree tops with a view from the north side of Tubbs Hill.

Downtown at Dawn

2010-03-10T13:21:00.000-08:00

During the day and certainly during the summer, downtown Coeur d'Alene is abuzz with people. At dawn this week during a guest stint hosting a local radio morning show, I captured the view as a single car on Sherman Avenue emerges from the dark.

Dog Days of Winter

2010-02-28T21:56:00.000-08:00

The last day of February in North Idaho was a great one ... sunny and nary a snowflake in sight. This was the perfect day for runners, both two and four-legged, and this duo on Poleline Avenue were among the many out enjoying the dog days of winter.

White Tail on watch

2010-02-25T08:03:00.000-08:00

This white tail deer stood sentry Sunday in a field across from Black Rock Golf Course. As I drove away, several deer emerged from the cover of tall grass to the right.

Lake reflection

2010-02-21T18:35:00.000-08:00

February's late afternoon sun over Rockford Bay on Lake Coeur d'Alene created a reflection of the far shore.

The view

2010-02-19T16:21:00.000-08:00

With the exception of the mountain ski resorts, North Idaho has been relatively snowless this winter. Sunshine this week and temperatures nearing 50 created crowds of people at the local car wash, seizing the opportunity to wash the winter grime away. This view from the driver's seat is likely one many of us will see over the weekend.

Fog on the water

2010-02-06T21:20:00.000-08:00

On a winter's day mid-morning fog over Lake Coeur d'Alene quickly disappears when the sun comes through the clouds over Independence Point.

Trophy Elk

2010-02-05T13:11:00.000-08:00

There's no shortage of wildlife viewing in North Idaho but a rather unique sight is an elk ranch on Hwy. 95 south of Coeur d'Alene near Rockford Bay. This winter there are nearly 50 of the magnificent creatures with impressive antlers visible from the highway.

OnLocation at the Capitol

2010-02-04T10:03:00.000-08:00

I went OnLocation about 400 miles south and took in a tour of the newly-renovated state capitol building in Boise. Definately worth seeing! More info HERE.

Beavers at work

2010-01-30T21:57:00.002-08:00

Down by the Spokane River I came across several tree stumps left by eager beavers. For some reason the beavers left this one unfinished.

Around the bend

2010-01-21T18:49:00.001-08:00

The Spokane River rushes around the bend near Corbin Park in Post Falls. It's uncommon to see the banks without snow and ice during the third week of January. Dozens of disc golfers were enjoying the sunny, 40+ degree day at the park.

How the big boys go sledding!

2010-01-13T10:32:00.000-08:00

Coeur d'Alene Realtor Tom Torgerson loves where he lives and loves "hill climbin'" in the great North Idaho outdoors on his modified Ski-Doo 800 Summit X. This photo of Tom was taken by Rand Wichman above Burke Canyon in Shoshone County.

Winter Sunset

2010-01-10T17:36:00.000-08:00

This gorgeous view of a recent winter sunset was taken from atop Fernan Hill with Fernan Lake in the foreground and Lake Coeur d'Alene in the distance. Thanks Tom Torgerson!

Out and About

2010-01-10T17:31:00.001-08:00

I've not been out OnLocation as much in recent weeks, tied to the computer it seems. But I'm not the only one in these parts who loves where I live so you'll see more photos from friends who are out enjoying the great North Idaho outdoors. Email a scenic winter photo to mainstreet@cdapress.com and if it's posted here, I'll credit the photographer. Let me know where you were and when. Thanks!

Take the Plunge!

2009-12-31T06:02:00.000-08:00

On the first day of the new year, start with a run along Lake Coeur d'Alene in the Hangover Handicap and then at the stroke of noon, the 31st Annual Polar Bear Plunge takes place at Sanders Beach ... water temperature 40 degrees! Either way, you're likely to get wet and sure to be cold, with snow in the forecast for North Idaho on the first day of 2010!

Towering Lights

2009-12-22T22:16:00.000-08:00

McEuen Terrace, which overlooks McEuen Field, Tubbs Hill and Lake Coeur d'Alene in downtown Coeur d'Alene, is dressed for the season.

Wet Winter

2009-12-21T08:56:00.002-08:00

North Idaho has seen far more rain than snow so far this winter. Last year was epic in snowfall volume which made for some incredible images in white like these steps down to Lake Coeur d'Alene at Independence Point. Winter recreationists won't be disappointed by the snowpack at Schweitzer, Silver Mountain and Lookout Pass, though.

Eagle Eye View

2009-12-17T14:25:00.001-08:00

I spend a lot of time on location with the eagles on Lake Coeur d'Alene this time of year. As I watched several swoop and soar and dive for fish I wondered what the view was like from their vantage point ... kokanee salmon in post-spawning death throes and people with cameras.

Frozen Fish

2009-12-14T23:05:00.000-08:00

A fisherman checks his frozen fishing hole on Fernan Lake Monday afternoon. A light snow was falling and the ice is several inches thick on the small lake at the east end of Coeur d'Alene.

Centennial Trail Sunset

2009-12-12T11:41:00.000-08:00

Even on a winter's day, walkers, cyclists and runners enjoy the view of Lake Coeur d'Alene from the Centennial Trail on Coeur d'Alene Lake Drive. This sunset is just one of the reasons the trail is used year around.

Frozen Falls

2009-12-11T09:06:00.000-08:00

The water features on Spokane Street's I-90 on and off ramps in Post Falls are looking more like ice sculptures this week after several days of single digit and below zero temperatures in North Idaho.

Eagle Watching

2009-12-10T23:02:00.000-08:00

The eagles have arrived on Lake Coeur d'Alene! As many as 100 bald eagles spend the month of December at Wolf Lodge Bay and Higgens Point to feed on Kokanee salmon before continuing their southern migration. Higgens Point has eagle viewing informational kiosks and public parking right at lake's edge. Eagle photographs HERE. More information on eagle watching cruises and education from the Idaho Dept. of Fish and Game click HERE.

Ramping up the season

2009-12-07T08:48:00.000-08:00

The iconic Cedars Floating Restaurant, off of Blackwell Island where Lake Coeur d'Alene flows into the Spokane River, is dressed for the holidays. The lake level is at its winter low. In the summer months, this ramp is not so much of an incline.

Frosty Green

2009-12-06T20:08:00.000-08:00

The world-famous floating green at the Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf Course is covered in frost on a very cold December Sunday morning.

Full Moon

2009-12-02T10:26:00.000-08:00

I enjoy far more moon rises than sun rises in the course of my nightowl lifestyle. On the first day of December a beautiful full moon was rising on the east as the sun was setting in the west in North Idaho.

Countdown to 2010

2009-11-29T12:52:00.000-08:00

The 24' wide pine wreath on the parking garage of the Coeur d'Alene Resort reminds us of the year about to come to an end. Weighing nearly 3 tons, the wreath is handcrafted each year by Post Falls florist, Connie O'Neil.

Lighting up the lake

2009-11-29T12:25:00.000-08:00

The annual fireworks display over Lake Coeur d'Alene dwarfed the Coeur d'Alene Resort cruise boats which were filled with revelers as Coeur d'Alene's downtown was officially lit up for the season.

Dressed for December

2009-11-29T12:02:00.000-08:00

The grounds of the Coeur d'Alene Resort and downtown's Sherman Avenue are all dressed in lights, although Mother Nature has yet to blanket North Idaho in white.

Nothing says Christmas like ...

2009-11-23T10:46:00.001-08:00

... shotgun shell lights on the tree. These, and other outdoors-themed lights like Coleman lanterns, are displayed at Cabela's in Post Falls.

Kicking off Christmas!

2009-11-23T08:06:00.000-08:00

The day after Thanksgiving, the Christmas season kicks off in Coeur d'Alene with the Festival of Lights Parade at dusk. At parade's end, thousands gather on the lawn of the Coeur d'Alene Resort for the official flipping of the switch to light up the downtown. At the Resort alone there are over a million lights strung.

Birds on a wire

2009-11-21T15:23:00.001-08:00

On a sunny but cold North Idaho November day, hundreds of starlings surveyed the landscape from overhead wires. Every few minutes they'd swoop as a group to feed in the fields below.

Gobble Gobble

2009-11-20T10:40:00.000-08:00

With less than a week before Thanksgiving, a family of wild turkeys parades through a Fernan Lake neighborhood.

First snow

2009-11-14T18:15:00.000-08:00

The first measurable snow of the season fell on Friday the 13th. By Saturday it was still dusting the fields of the prairie and Rathdrum Mountain. At the Idaho/Montana stateline Lookout Ski and Recreation area opened this weekend for early season skiiers.

In like a lamb

2009-11-01T21:17:00.001-08:00

November arrived in North Idaho without a roar. Beautiful blue skies and mild temperatures made for some great late season golf at the Highlands Country Club in Post Falls. Dozens of golfers were out on the links and the driving range on a sunny Sunday ... which just happened to be November 1.

Fire on the Mountain

2009-11-01T21:13:00.001-08:00

On Saturday, smoke and fire could be seen on the south side of Rathdrum Mountain, high winds sending the smoke nearly horizontal. No cause for alarm ... evidently it was a controlled slash burn.

The difference a day makes ...

2009-10-29T10:19:00.001-07:00

The first flakes of measurable snow fell on North Idaho this morning, even before all the leaves have fallen from the trees.

Shades of Picnics Past

2009-10-28T10:05:00.000-07:00

A gazebo at Q'emlin Park on the Spokane River is framed by fall foliage on one of these bonus sunny days of fall. Picnic tables are stacked for storage with the first North Idaho snowfall just around the corner.

Autumn Art

2009-10-27T09:00:00.001-07:00

At every turn the artistry of Autumn is visible in North Idaho. Even a leaf-covered lawn on a rainy day is reason enough to pause and enjoy.

Rainy Monday

2009-10-26T21:30:00.001-07:00

The rains fell in North Idaho and the grassy swale in the Kootenai County Admin building parking lot resembled a lake. Is that the floating green or just a stormwater cover? :)

Slipping Away

2009-10-24T14:56:00.000-07:00

The vacant boat slips at Redlion Templin's Marina on the Spokane River in Post Falls have shed their blue canvas canopies but the colorful fall foliage provides a feast for the eyes.

Hunting Season

2009-10-22T21:09:00.000-07:00

Last year Coors featured a camoflauge design on their canned beer and this year, just in time for hunting season, Miller and Busch weighed in with colorful camo cans. 'Tis the season in North Idaho.

Day's End

2009-10-20T21:02:00.000-07:00

Sunsets in North Idaho are beautiful any time of year but in the Fall, they come much earlier in the day. This view is from Chase Road in Post Falls at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday.

Deserted Lake

2009-10-15T11:29:00.002-07:00

The summer crowds have gone, leaving the shores of Lake Coeur d'Alene's Booth Park empty except for a few broken branches. On a windy October Day the ripples on the water create an artistic visual.

Fishing at Fernan

2009-10-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

On a brisk but sunny day, the public fishing dock at Coeur d'Alene's Fernan Lake is a popular spot for all ages.

Season of the Cat

2009-10-05T07:49:00.000-07:00

In advance of All Hallows Eve a black cat hides in plain sight behind a shrub in the midst of changing colors for fall.

Birds of a feather

2009-10-04T21:09:00.000-07:00

A flock of young sparrows perch near berry bushes after a fall feeding frenzy during a windy and cool North Idaho afternoon.

Fall Fell

2009-09-29T07:05:00.001-07:00

I'm usually dragged kicking and screaming out of summer each year, but I do enjoy the beautiful north Idaho autumns once summer's over. This driveway at the east end of Fernan Lake offers a postcard view of the beauty that's there for the looking.

So long September

2009-09-27T19:48:00.000-07:00

On the last Sunday of September warm weather was the only excuse these youngsters needed for an afternoon in the Spokane River at Post Falls' Corbin Park.

On the lake

2009-09-23T22:41:00.000-07:00

A kayaker glides away from Sanders Beach on Lake Coeur d'Alene with The Terraces luxury condos and the Coeur d'Alene Resort golf course as a backdrop.

Good Shot

2009-09-21T08:52:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, Vicki Isakson of Coeur d'Alene bagged a 5X5 point elk in the Idaho Panhandle. Fall means hunting season for many North Idahoans, and right now bow season is open. Check HERE for Idaho's rules and regulations for hunters from the Fish & Game Department.

Sun Setting on Summer

2009-09-09T14:53:00.001-07:00

The temperatures are dropping and the coming of fall can be felt in the air but sunsets on the Spokane River in Post Falls are reminders of summer on the water in North Idaho.

Fernan Lake Rainbow

2009-09-02T09:24:00.001-07:00

Sam Crawford captured a rainbow over his Fernan Lake neighborhood on Tuesday evening. In North Idaho, summer storms often create beautiful rainbows before the blue skies return.

Monday Masts

2009-08-31T21:15:00.000-07:00

Sailboats in the harbor at Bayview signal summer's swan song. Formed by glaciers Lake Pend Oreille (pond-or-ey) is Idaho's largest lake and one of the largest inland lakes in North America. A renowned recreation and fishing mecca with a shoreline of 143 miles, its depth has been measured in excess of 1,170 feet. The name came from the early French trappers, referring to the earlobe pendants worn by the local Indian tribe.

Practice Makes Perfect

2009-08-29T09:13:00.000-07:00

The Spirit Lake fireboat put on quite a show for those along the shore at Spirit Lake's Silver Beach while performing an equipment check on what might very well have been the last summer day with temperatures in the '90s.

Dog Days of Summer

2009-08-27T16:53:00.001-07:00

As August comes to an end, near triple digit temperatures return making a swim in the lake the perfect way to spend the day. Pebbles, a long-haired Chihuahua, enjoys cooling off with a dog paddle in North Idaho's Spirit Lake.

Fair Food

2009-08-26T14:59:00.001-07:00

The North Idaho Fair kicks off today at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds and runs through Sunday. A favorite fair treat is found at the award-winning Ekness booth ~ North Idaho Beer Balls. Add a little kraut and some onions and they're delish. There are the standby elephant ears, cotton candy, deep fried everything including Twinkies and Snickers bars. The Lutherans have a long-time favorite food-on-a-stick ... The Viking, which is breaded, deep-fried meatballs. If you want to eat something a little more diet friendly ... try a fresh ear of corn-on-the-cob from the Lions. What melted butter? :)

Monday in Paradise

2009-08-24T18:32:00.000-07:00

As the dog days of summer begin to turn the corner into back to school, Monday afternoons are still time for play in North Idaho. On the Spokane River a boat pulled two tubes of thrill-seekers through the waves.

Simple Pleasures

2009-08-22T19:41:00.001-07:00

We have an abundance of natural and spectacular beauty in North Idaho so sometimes it's good to be reminded of the simple yet special places. Rathdrum's city park is just such a place. Right on Hwy. 53, with a gazebo, pavilion and a playground, my favorite feature is the creek that runs through the center of the park. Rathdrum Creek is the quintessential small town swimming and fishing hole and in early evening on a summer's day, it's the perfect place for a picnic dinner.

On the water

2009-08-21T11:19:00.000-07:00

Today and tomorrow is the free Wooden Boat Show at the Coeur d'Alene Resort's boardwalk marina. I never tire of seeing these beautiful boats so lovingly restored. And any excuse to be in or on or near the water in August is good.

Murray or Bust

2009-08-21T09:17:00.001-07:00

This weekend the little North Idaho mining town of Murray rolls out the welcome mat for their annual celebration. It's everything Idaho used to be, and then some.In the 1800s there were more people living in Murray than in Spokane. I love that even now with a population in the double digits, Murray still boasts a post office and their own zip code. Not to miss: The Spragpole bar and museum and the historic cemetary where many of the Silver Valley's most colorful characters reside for eternity.
How to get there: Take Kingston Exit 43 from I-90 and follow the Coeur d'Alene River Road north about 30 miles.

History Revisited

2009-08-16T18:22:00.000-07:00

The new Post Falls Historical Society Museum opened with much fanfare on Saturday. Located in the restored former Chapin Drugs building on the corner of Spokane Street and 4th Avenue on the Post Falls City Hall campus, it's filled with artifacts and mementos of this milltown on the Spokane River. For hours and information use this link.

Sparkly web

2009-08-13T22:43:00.000-07:00

A remnant of overnight thundershowers in the Idaho panhandle were captured in a spider's web on my front porch steps.

Beautiful Boats

2009-08-11T11:18:00.000-07:00

There are no shortage of beautiful boats on North Idaho waters and this classic wooden beauty was a vision at sunset. Coming into the dock at the Cedars Floating Restaurant at the convergence of Lake Coeur d'Alene and the Spokane River, it glowed golden brown.

Happy Birthday Athol!

2009-08-06T08:14:00.000-07:00

Athol, Idaho has a colorful history which will be on display this weekend as the town celebrates its Centennial birthday!
Full Coeur d'Alene Press story HERE.

Cool Drinks

2009-08-05T11:35:00.000-07:00

Outdoor on-the-water dining is a treat on Lake Coeur d'Alene. While local specialty drinks often include the Idaho state fruit, huckleberries ... a watermelon mojito at the Cedar's Floating Restaurant is mighty cool on a hot day.

Fashionable floating

2009-08-03T10:22:00.001-07:00

The Park sisters, Marisa and Veronica, prove that floating the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River on a hot summer day is fashionable, indeed.

Be Careful Out There!

2009-07-28T11:37:00.000-07:00

North Idaho has some of the most beautiful water in all the world. Boaters, swimmers, jet skiiers, cruise boats, seaplanes and parasailers share the recreational enjoyment of Lake Coeur d'Alene in the summer. Keeping everyone safe and assisting when accidents happen are the Kootenai County Sheriffs Marine Division. The deputies patrol in boats and on wave runners.