Today in Helena (and Missoula)

A man and a bear

Ready for a day's work

M-60 on display

Montanans who were awarded the MOH

Two elk meaning business

Following his appointment this morning in Helena, Charles took advantage of the opportunity to take in a couple attractions of this fair city.

First up was Montana Wild, an interactive offering by the Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks.  This is a very nicely done exhibit and offers a wonderful glimpse into one of the best aspects of this state.

A return to Fort Harrison was next to take in the Montana Military Museum.  This is a well-designed museum and it was a good thing Charles was in Helena on Thursday since that is the only day this volunteer-led museum is open each week!

Finally, as he returned to Missoula, he made a quick stop at the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. Fascinating look at elks and the world they inhabit.

Back in Helena

Charles is in Helena tonight and enjoying some of the local flavor ahead of an appointment tomorrow morning.  Following supper at Fusion (next door to the hotel) Charles took a stroll around Centennial Park.  This is a wonderful example of making the quality of life in a community come alive!

Ready to float in Stevi

This morning we went to the Gragg ranch to help other SUMC members in building a float for this coming Saturday's Creamery Picnic parade.  We were joined by Nancy who is spending an extra day with us while waiting for her camper to be repaired.

The return of Nancy and Luci

Luci is glad to have dirt under her paws!

Belinda and Nancy enjoy the cool of the evening.

Reading all about the upcoming Creamery Picnic

Earline presents us with garden treats

Charles displays the first fruits of our garden

Due to some repairs needed to the travel trailer that can't be done until tomorrow, Lucy, accompanied by Nancy, returned to the parsonage in Stevensville for an extra night with us.  It is a treat to have them, even if it is under these circumstances :)

While we were enjoying the evening air in the backyard, our neighbor across the alley presented us with some squash, kale and green beans.  Charles was prompted by Nancy to check our garden and picked the first of this year's crop - some yellow and green zucchini.

Tomorrow we'll be helping to decorate the church float for Saturday's parade!  Thanks be to God for such a delightful summer day!!!

This evening with Nancy

Sonia and Belinda examine the garden

Don and Charles share some thoughts

Sonia is an amazing quilter

Wake me when I'm done with this nap

Luci and Wesley actually occupying the same sofa!

After the activity of the day one might expect that the evening would be quieter, well it didn't happen!  Following our stops on Main Street Nancy had to tend to some issues regarding her truck and camper.  

This evening Nancy was a whirl in the kitchen, whipping up a fabulous creamy potato soup!  While she was doing the domestic chore at the parsonage we ventured to the home of Don & Sonia Henry to get a quick tour of their container garden plot and their chicken coop.  

It was a shame we couldn't stay longer to visit but Nancy and the delayed supper were waiting so with a delicious gift of a home-made pie, we returned home to help Nancy prepare for her Tuesday morning departure.

This afternoon with Nancy

Belinda, Nancy & Heather

A stop at Valley Drug (Stevensville's general store) was first up and always has something to discover.  Next up was Simply Irresistible, a lovely consignment shop.  This shop has a wonderful variety of clothing for women and children and is a color-bath for the senses. 

Our final stop was at The Montana Chocolate Factory, an absolute must-do/must have when coming to Stevensville!  An added bonus was meeting Heather, the mother of a new family at SUMC who helps at the Chocolate Factory in her spare time.  

This morning with Nancy

On the road to St. Mary's 

Wagner homestead at Fort Owen

Charles at Fort Owen

US flag in Major Owen's quarters

We took advantage of some wonderful weather this morning to get in some sight-seeing in our part of the Valley.  We intended to drive up to the trail head on St. Mary's Peak but the road was closed (due to the flooding this past spring).  

So enjoying the scenery as much as we could to and from then we stopped at Fort Owen located on the road into Stevensville. Interesting glimpse into this early chapter in Montana's history.

Sunday evening in Stevensville

Ready for a treat at Valley Drug (with Clay Freeman)

Passing a Sunday evening on Main St.

Sun setting at St. Mary's Mission

After a warm afternoon we decided to venture out and treat ourselves to the evening fare of our community.  First up was a stop at Valley Drug where one of the SUMC members, Clay Freeman, helps supervise the counter most nights.  We enjoyed our sundaes so much!!!

A short stroll away brought us to St. Mary's Mission where we caught the last three offerings of a concert of classical vocal works. The setting couldn't have been nicer with perfect weather and the historic mission serving as the backdrop. It was a delightful way to end our day!

Sunday afternoon at the parsonage

Lucy explores the backyard

Wesley keeps a wary eye on this newcomer

Taking advantage of the apple tree shade

Lucy is exhausted by all the excitement

After worship this morning we went to the Frontier Cafe` where it turned out to be the SUMC fellowship hall annex.  There must have been at least twenty of us there!

Coming home to our furry friends, we enjoyed a bit of garden time before the afternoon naps. Wesley and Lucy have been cordial though not overly familiar with Wesley keeping somewhat of a wary eye on this strange critter coming into his space!

Wesley's day

All that cleaning is exhausting!

Keeping an eye on the cat in the garden

With all of the housework being done today Wesley was content to keep watch from the security of his chair.

Parsonage visitor

Belinda, Lucy (the dog) and Nancy

Nancy's rig

The long-anticipated visit from Belinda's friend, Nancy, has begun!  

In preparation for this visit we spent the day tidying-up the homestead while Wesley kept vigil from the safety of a chair in the living room!!!

Nancy is accompanied by her dachshund, Luci,  Wesley and Luci were introduced without any drama.  Perhaps Wesley is okay with Luci given her small size :).

Two wheels for Belinda!

Belinda is now the proud owner of a spiffy bicycle!  This morning she took it out for a spin and the old saying, "you never forget how to ride a bike" is true!!

This afternoon Belinda led the cleaning of the parsonage, trying to get it spic-n-span ahead of this weekend's visit by a friend of Belinda's.  Stay tuned for some fun pics!

Beautiful day in the Valley

Delightful weather was in store for us today!  Charles was busy this morning getting the house ready for company this weekend and then took advantage of the beautiful afternoon to join his regular golf pals in Missoula.

Wesley in the meantime was holding down the fort at home! Belinda has been working hard this week in Hamilton, doing her part for the cause!!