Seattle to Idaho Falls

August 19, 2014

Hi all,

 It has been a while since I have written and  am back at it at least for now.

We just spent a month and a half in Seattle and after the pleasure of getting to take care of Sasha (4) several times, we are now on our way to visit our daughter Sharon in Bismarck and three of her children. 

 

We left Sunday morning and on the way out we went to the Unity of Bellevue Church where we attend when we are there.  We then drove south to Portland and took I-84 east through the Columbia River Gorge.  It was breath taking beauty and the river is massive.  There were several dams that we passed and again we marveled at the power of the dams and their usefulness,  We saw several falls but did not stop and hike to see them well,  but they were pretty from the highway. That even we stayed in The Dalles which was drier than it was earlier in the day.  We were hoping to see some cherry orchards but never did.  It was pretty hilly there, however. 

Monday was a good travel day.  We passed through some mountains and valleys and on into Caldwell.

 

After a good night's sleep we started for Idaho Falls and along the way decided to take a "back" road (Hwy 20) to get there.  We stopped at a Visitor's Center and asked advice and we were advised to do it. Now we are grateful that we did.  

It took us through the hills and mountains where we saw the Sawtooth Mts. and where Stanley ID is.  We did not go there but now we have a good idea where it is.  A dear friend 

of ours and some of you (Rod Romney) came from there and we heard him speak about it often.  He also mentioned Arco and we did go through there on our way.  

We also went by the Crater of the Moon National Monument and learned much about  lava and volcanoes.  We did the seven mile loop and saw various sights.  I will send pictures in a few as soon as I get them downloaded.  The most recent eruption was 2,000 years ago.  There was not one volcano but a series of deep fissures known as the Great Rift. Beginning 15,000 years ago lava welled up from these fissures to produce this vast ocean of rock. NASA's Appollo Astronauts learned basic volcanic geology here in 1969 as they prepared for their moon missions.  There are many hiking trails and some are made for wheelchairs.  It was a fascinating place and a "back" road treasure. 

We are in Idaho Falls and will travel to the Grand Tetons tomorrow.  

Our best to each and every one.  

Ric and Jan(ice)