A Bitter Sweet Journey Back to Lewiston, Idaho

Within a week of our return to Blaine, from Borrego Springs, CA we received sad news that a long-time friend and business associate (during my tenure with Potlatch) passed away very unexpectedly, a drowning accident on Payette Lake, near McCall, Idaho. To say the least, this was the very bitter part of our journey back to Lewiston.  Our friend's name, Larry Streeby.  We have known him, his wife Kay, and their family for over 30 years. Rosie and I have great memories of rafting trips we did with them on various stretches of the Upper, Main and Lower Salmon River. Those trips remain some of "the best of times" for us. 

We traveled to Lewiston to attend services and morn Larry's untimely passing and also to spend time with his family and friends during this very difficult time.  It's sad but true... weddings and funerals often become the catalyst that brings old friends back together, and that's exactly what happened.  This actually became the "sweet" part of our journey east and a reason for this blog update. 

Speaking of old friends.....Dale and Betsy McGreer, also long-time friends of the Streeby's, have also been our good friends for over 30 years.  They offered to take us up the Snake River via their jet boat to their new "Lodge" for a couple days.  Really...how could we refuse an offer like that, a chance to spend time with good friends and also an opportunity to get back on the river that we enjoyed so much for years while living in Lewiston.... So, we simply couldn't resist sharing the beauty of the Snake River and the "Lodge" with you!

Arriving at the "Lodge"

Dale and Betsy's getaway.. The Lodge

What a view!

Wood-fired Hot Tub with manual circulation pump...It was great!

It doesn't get much better than this!!!!

 

Hells Canyon Recreation Area Visitor Center on the Snake..

Stopping for a permit to continue up the Snake...

The Snake River is a series of rapids and fast-moving stretches of flat water..

Mountain goats spotted along the river

A stop for a quick swim...

 



Room for only 1 boat at the Falls...

 

Back at the Lodge, remembering good times with Larry and Kay.....

Time to say goodbye to Dale and Betsy (and Birdie)...and the Lodge on the Snake.  Great Hosts, Great Time!

Sunrise from the Lodge deck....