Dear Dad, do you remember that little spot along the road you wanted to stop at every time we passed it but for one reason or another we never did? Today your dog Rider and I did stop this time. I kick myself for not taking you there sooner, when you were still breathing. You would have enjoyed all the Lewis and Clark history but also there was a lot more to learn that surprised even me historically. I learned a lot and I know you would have talked about everything for months had you been there too. I brought your little bit of ashes so maybe, maybe somehow you actually came with me in spirit.
The history displayed on the signs was startling. The culture can sometimes be mind-boggling, like the practice of head flattening of infants and the Chinook’s ideas of land ownership. And really makes you think. I really like the history concerning native foods and the rolls people played in the rich culture. Rider just loved to sniff everything and sit in the fake canoes that are on display. It wasn’t a long walk. It would have been just perfect for you because it was easy and you had trouble walking distances at the end. I know how much you liked to explore and hike, though, so it would have made your day.
Climate Wary Homesteader 