A Home in Montana

Since I'm new to this area, I am continually amazed at all the things there are to do here! Each year, there is a three day festival in Kalispell called Art in the Park. It benefits the Hockaday Museum of Art, and it's only blocks from my house. I loved the shade provided by the big trees, and the breeze blowing throughout the air was an added bonus. The festival had live music, food and drinks, and over 100 booths of juried artists. Really one of the best I've ever attended.

Today my friend Mary and I were driving to the Cherry Festival in Polson, taking 35 around Flathead Lake, when I saw a sign for Finley Point State Park. My daughter's best friend has a son named Finley, so I followed the road to take a few snaps for him. On the way, I discovered heaven disguised as Spindrift Organics. A table was set up by the side of the road, and two women were selling cherries. Of course I stopped, and I'm so glad I did. The gates were open to the certified organic farm, and Kristin gave me a tour. They were selling three kinds of cherries (Rainier, Skeena, and a more sour type for pie baking whose name escapes me.) After mentioning they also had raspberries, they offered to run pick some for us! And then I found out that they also have peaches and nectarines that aren't quite ready yet...and also veggies-to-be...and they grow grapes and bottle their own wine! The list goes on and on. Since I had no camera equipment with me (I know, shame shame) ...

Today was the Market Beautiful's show in Somers, Montana. Formerly known as the Vintage Whites Market, this show had over eighty vendors, and was in the middle of a field. My friend Mary and I joined the crowd of customers waiting for the grand opening at 10 am, and the time went by quickly! Oh, but it was hot! Sunny and hot! We made it around the entire show in just over an hour, buying a few odds and ends, and enjoying the morning. One thing I did like was the help they had to help you carry the big stuff to your vehicle. I can't but wonder why this isn't done everywhere!

One thing about living in small town America, there are lots of parades to choose from on the Fourth of July! I picked the Kalispell parade, because it was five blocks away...easy in, easy out! Afterwards, there was an ice cream social at the historic Conrad Mansion down the street. The weather was perfect, and a good time was had by all.