Saturday Slight

 

A spring evening with family at Matchwood Brewing topped off a beautiful Friday. 

Willie warned us early that a reggae band would be setting up right near the outdoor table he had chosen. 

That was okay. We had plenty of time to order our dinner and finish it off before the band began to play. 

I thought off and on over the evening what a neat concept Andrea and Kenden had envisioned when they were converting an area in what is now known as the Granary District into a Pub featuring their own brews and a family-oriented setting for both brews and great meals. 

In addition, they hoped that the enterprise would turn into a community gathering place.  

I met them and learned about their plans a few years ago while interviewing the couple for a story.  Matchwood Brewing was in its infant stages at the time.  Andrea had made her way West from Rhode Island, while Kenden grew up just across the Montana Border. 

Fast forward to a Friday evening in April when folks are feeling the endorphins of a lovely spring day. 

Those folks range from vintage types like Bill and me to adorable little toddlers often independently engaged in their own brand of fun. 

The band did set up as we stuffed ourselves with juicy, tasty and messy hamburgers, Philly sandwiches and, of course, tater tots with a little zip in the sauce. 

The evening crowd was gradually descending upon the outdoor eating area from all directions.  We recognized a few familiar faces, including some of my former students, and, we spent time visiting while waiting for the music to start. 

When it did, so did the dancing---again, all ages feeling the freedom and comfort of doing their own thing. 

The music was soothing, rhythmic and all things reggae. 

The crowd loved it. 

As the band played and people danced, little Walter paid visits from table to table, often with his master who had taught the little toy Aussie, terrier mix how to "Gimme five and to gimme ten." 

Walter is a talented, very social dog, and, yes, dogs can come with families.  They just have to stay in the "bark" section in the outdoor dining area. 

Bill and I agreed that the next time we visit Matchwood we'll take Bridie and Foster with us. 

Indeed, Kenden and Andrea had a wonderful vision a few years ago.  

It was clearly evident from last night's gathering, where at times the couple (now parents of two) mingled with the crowd, that their vision of community enjoyment has definitely hit the mark. 

A fun evening at Matchwood. 

Happy Saturday. 

 

Andrea and Kenden

This Seattle group is performing again today up at Schweitzer. 

Tonya, that's an adorable granddaughter, and your hubby's pup is cute too. 

Debbie and Adrian enjoyed a reunion at Matchwood.  Adrian served as one of Debbie's volunteers for the food bank. 

He also wrote some inspiring thoughts which given to and read aloud by the triplets plus one at a high school graduation celebration party held here at the Lovestead during the Pandemic. 

Sean served on my Cedar Post staff.  He and his partner run a very successful graphic arts firm here in Sandpoint. 

Sam was one of my English students at SHS.  

He and his friend Chrystle perform as a duet around town.  Sam said he had the night off last night, so he did a little boogying to reggae with Chrystle's daughter. 

"Gimme ten, Walter."