Traveling up the eastern side of Idaho along Interstate 15 seems to be mile after mile of parched, uninhabited land.  In the past, it has simply been a chore, much like Texas, to travel this part of Idaho, a means to get from Point A to Point B.  Indeed, as we continue driving North, in the sunshine, the landscape changes little, mile after mile, save for the Budweiser plant that breaks the monotony on the Eastern side with one of the largest murals we have ever seen painted on the Interstate-facing side of the building.  I took a quick photograph, assuming that this lavish sight, awkwardly placed in the middle of otherwise barren country, would be my highlight for the day.  

 

Such was our assumption as we turned a wee bit westward, headed toward the mountains once again.  After noontime, it occurred to us that we should seek a “brown sign” exit where unto we could walk THE DOG.   What to our wondering eyes did appear within seconds of such a thought but such a sign announcing a state reservoir and recreation area at the next exit!

 

Departing the Interstate with the greatest of ease, we parked in a deserted campground, facing a stunning vista of half frozen lake, western mountain backdrop, and a flock of migrating birds.  How the Canada Geese managed to sit on top of the ice for any length of time and be comfortable remained beyond me, despite some initial familiarity with the thermal insulative capability of Goose down remembered from the many cold nights in the trailer in Bay St. Louis.  Perched on the edge of the ice, as they were, however, these migrating geese were assuredly safe from the curiosity of THE DOG, or so we thought until Belle jumped into the water and started swimming in the near freezing temperatures.  

 

This marvelous scenery was a much unexpected blessing in a long day of driving.  The Subaru heaved a big sigh as well as she spotted the cold, wet mountain scenery which she so loved for its gravel forest roads and opportunities to play on All Wheel Drive.  

 

Home was nearby; these mountains were very obviously close cousins to our close friends, the Cascades.