Warmth, Friendship, Learning and Scottish Delights

It's just a couple of weeks until the annual Bonner County 4-H horse show.  

Yesterday the 2018 Idaho Draft and Mule International show started at the fairgrounds.  The event runs through the weekend. 

Because of the Draft Horse Show, last night's Gold n' Grouse 4-H horse meeting was held at Brian Wood's arena here in Selle rather than the originally scheduled fairgrounds venue.

Yesterday could have been the hottest day of the year so far.  Maybe not, but with those cool days earlier this week, it felt uncomfortably hot throughout the afternoon and evening.

The heat did not stop 4-H'ers from attending the meeting, even though leader Krissy Peck said the gathering would be optional.  

A large group of youngsters and their horses showed up anyway-----practicing showmanship and trail class obstacles until almost dark. 

The meeting was Lefty's first outing in a couple of weeks since Terra had been gone for part of that time.  There were a few rough edges, but along with that came some valuable learning moments under the tutelage of leader Melissa Peck.

It's always amazing to see a good teacher in action, showing patience, gentle guidance and offering precise suggestions for how to correct mistakes and see little increments of progress.  

These learning moments were applied, and success at walking over a strange bridge obstacle for the first time and backing through an "L" made the struggles well worth the effort.  

As I a retired teacher, I LOVE watching education unfold before my very eyes. Attending a Gold n' Grouse 4-H meeting is always offers an educational treat, thanks to the dedication and knowledge of the club's exceptional leaders. 

Meanwhile, with Bill off fishing the St. Joe with Andrew and Willie, my afternoon was also highlighted by another visit with my former students, the Sharpe sisters (Liz and Theresa) from California and Washington, respectively.  

This time they brought along their husbands, John and Mike. We spent a couple of hours yesterday afternoon yakking, laughing and enjoying the Lovestead woods.

Since the Sharpe sisters have had experience with our UTV, it seemed appropriate the two couples take a ride through the woods.  This time Liz's hubby John took the wheel. 

Theresa's hubby Mike is a New Yawker, who passionately loves his New York Rangers hockey team, so much so that he brought me a rangers hockey hat.  

Since I know someone in the neighborhood who played for the Boston Bruins, I told Mike I'd rub it in with my new cap next time I see this former player. 

And, as you can see from one of the photos, Mike is really passionate about those Rangers. 

As always, the Sharpe sisters visit their hubbies was a delightful experience.  They were headed off to Serva-Burger, where both Liz and John once worked, to enjoy a chocolate sundae and probably to rekindle a memory or two.  

Thanks, to you four, for the goodies and your great company. 

Finally, I've included a couple of stunning shots this morning, which are not from beautiful North Idaho.   

These were taken by Annie in the highlands of Scotland where she touched down yesterday and began yet another adventure.

It's her first trip to Scotland, and the place is looking mighty picture perfect.  Today, she and her Camino friend Maurice are walking the West Highlands, along with a whole lotta other hikers from around the world. 

The fun never ends for Annie, it seems, and with that, it continues to be fun for all who follow her adventures. 

Looking like another warm July day today, and I'm thinking the warmth has brought on some more ripe raspberries. So, that will be added to the usual daily chores for the next several days, officially ushering in the "picking and grinning" gardening and harvest season. 

Love it AND it tastes good too. 

Happy Friday.