Independence Day, Montana-Style

While we are sure that the sunrise here at Schendel Ranch is breathtaking, we are also aware that it takes place at about four o'clock in the morning. Therefore, with a deep yawn and even deeper regret, we decided to skip this one. Maybe tomorrow. Don't count on it.

We did crawl out of bed early enough to witness elk grazing on a nearby slope. To get to a proper viewpoint, however, we once again had to make our way past Shades, the guard dog who, just last night, had threatened to do unspeakable (unbarkable?) things to those limbs of ours which he could reach while tethered to the tree. This time, though, seeing that we had spent the night, Shades decided to make friends with us; after all, guests are more likely to share their food with happy, friendly puppies than with snarling hellhounds.

Following our morning elk encounter, Kala donned her red t-shirt and royal blue wig, and we made our way into town for the Fourth of July parade. There, we found the streets lined with people cheerfully greeting one another and eagerly awaiting the candy that is traditionally thrown from the holiday floats. Soon, the local law enforcement vehicle rolled slowly past, signaling the beginning of the parade. The pace car was followed by horses, privately owned show vehicles, floats organized by community organizations, and the like. We were told that the parade usually includes snow plows and fire engines, but they never made an appearance. Despite their conspicuous absence, the parade was a success. The participants got to show off their prized possessions and the crowd got their highly anticipated treats. Although we must admit that the candy was not so much thrown to the spectators as hurled at us.

After the parade, our tour of Chris's beloved country began. This part of our trip has been especially meaningful to us, as it marks our first personal visit along our route. Our plans include several stops to spend time with friends and loved ones across the nation.

Our tour began at The Castle, a stone mansion built in 1892 by a somewhat eccentric and very wealthy early resident of White Sulphur Springs.

We were then treated to an exhilarating ride through the land belonging to Schendel Ranch while Chris checked for salt licks. On several occasions, we lost sight of what passed, at least in Chris's mind, for a road and blazed our own trail up and down the perilously steep mountains. We were thrilled to get a free, guided tour of land the likes of which hunters from out-of-state often pay up to six thousand dollars to tread.

We weren't really sure what to expect from tonight's fireworks show. After all, a town of less than a thousand people couldn't possibly put on a display to compete with those we'd seen in larger, wealthier communities, could it? Boy, were we surprised! We lay on our blankets in the field and watched in awe as the grand pyrotechnic exhibition played out directly overhead. The "Big Sky" of Montana exploded in a dazzling symphony of colors, shapes, and patterns, creating a Fourth of July presentation we will surely never forget.

Before we turn in for the night, we would like to express our thanks to those of you who are following our adventures and sending us your encouraging comments. Tune in tomorrow (provided this wireless connection holds up) for another exciting episode!