Easter at the Boundary

 

It belongs to the people of America. 

Nevertheless, we call it "our spot."

It's an Idaho Fish and Game Wildlife Management area along Boundary Creek with America on one side, Canada on the other. 

We can go for a short walk from our usual picnic table and almost throw a rock to Porthill, Idaho, on the other side of the creek.  

Happily, over the years, we've had exclusive use of this lovely remote area for family gatherings, most often Easter or Mother's Day. 

Yesterday was no exception.

Seven family peeps and four family dogs, loaded up supplies in three rigs and took Easter edibles to the picnic area overlooking Boundary Creek.

We left snow behind in Sandpoint and watched somewhat nervously as rainstorms blew from the western mountains over the Kootenai Valley. 

Our Easter prayers were answered, though, as the sun came out shortly after our arrival.  Brisk winds kept us moving once we left our vehicles and carried dinner items to the table. 

Willie and Debbie's dog Joe wasted no time going for a swim in the creek.  He spent his afternoon in doggie Heaven, swimming and running and playing. 

Bill and I decided that we would limit our canine contribution to one---Annie's Foster. We all agreed that having two more boisterous pups among the pack may lead to doggie overload. 

Barbara, Laurie and Annie kept their canine friends, Meggie, Jessie and Foster on leash, and that was okay with all three.  After all, there were handouts, and to be running up and down hillsides could mean missing some of those treats. 

As usual, we had Canadian onlookers across Boundary Creek.  Every year several horses belonging to a Canadian rancher show up, maybe prance around a bit but mostly watch the goings on across the creek. 

We love it.  Such a beautiful sight to behold. 

And, I must mention that while there we are surrounded by vast stretches of striking outdoor beauty. Plus, the drive to and from this spot offers hours of picturesque delight.

There's a sense of our being alone and removed from the world whenever we go there.  

We relax. 

We talk. 

We go for short hikes. 

We watch dogs and horses and just count our blessings that for a few hours each time we have this enchanting and pastoral spot all to ourselves.  

Every year we create a few more memories to add to those from past years.   

Yes, indeed, it's our spot cuz we brave the cold and the wind and whatever elements keep most sensible folks away. 

Easter 2022 once more satisfied and enriched our individual and family souls.