Winter's Here

There's snow on the ground, although not much, and a bit slushy.

No Where Else I'd Rather Be

Summer's Just Around the Corner

The osprey and swallows have returned. A couple of weeks ago I watched our local beaver digging in mud along the river's edge. Although not hibernators, beaver are not particularly active during the winter, so when I see him, during the day, I know winter's officially over. May 15th the Sandpoint Music Festival releases its lineup for the 2009 summer. There's also Art on the Green in Coeur d'Alene, Silverwood, Schweitzer's summer activities including a new family friendly bike trail, and the outstanding Sandpoint Farmer's Market.
With our rates never lower, now is the time to reserve a weekend or longer for your family.

Dover in January: A Quiet Place to Be

There's an abundance of snow in Dover, although it's warmed up quite a bit, and melting has begun. This past Saturday, January 10th, it snowed nearly all day, covering the old snow with an inch of new downy flakes.
Although it's quiet, there are still people around--those who come for the weekend as well as a few full time residents. Every day the fitness club has at least a few guests. We purchased memberships this past weekend and now are enjoy their crisp, clean, and well furnished workout room and outdoor jacuzzi. The outdoor pool's heater wasn't working, but should be by next week.

One of my family's favorite winter activities is walking along the trails. Snow shoes work best, but we slosh, sink, and lumber along, looking for moose, beaver, and the remaining waterfowl. It's much more enjoyable listening to the forest's noises than hearing hearing guns, snowmobiles, or trucks. An occasional chainsaw engine can be heard traveling across the lake, which reminds me of growing up on Hayden Lake. I'm glad we didn't purchase in Sandpoint. While I love the town, I'm much happier biking or driving the two miles that separate Dover from the "big city."

You may purchase a daily pass to the fitness club at the Dover Bay Marina store, . The first person is $10, the next is $8, and I believe the third person is $6. Not terrific prices, but perhaps worth it after a day of skiing. If you do buy a pass, bring a towel and something to drink, as neither of these items are available inside the fitness room. As I'm not a skier, I worked out twice while my husband and son skied at Schweitzer. And speaking of Schweitzer, I highly recommend the shuttle. It runs on the half hour and costs a mere $2 for adults (children six and under are free). It's quick, safe, and a great way to save gas.