My last night camping was where I began – at Long Lake. Same view as before. It was Friday night and I heard music coming from across the lake where a group of friends were enjoying each other’s company. Their happiness made me smile.

I had been reflecting on the trip during the last few days. This trip had been different from my other trips. I had left without any itinerary or definitive plans. I had a concept to explore east central Idaho. That was it. I liked that approach but what I learned is that planning is still needed. I still had to make decisions on where to spend the night and what to do. This resulted in looking for cell phone service and then stopping to using the access when I had it.

My goal was to slow down and look at more, and drive less. This was somewhat successful, yet improvement is needed. I enjoyed watching the farm harvest and talking with people.

I learned about silage – cow food. Corn plants are chopped up and mounded under a tarp where it starts to ferment.

And the many people I chatted with added richness to the trip. There was the firewood cutter in the middle of nowhere by the ghost town Florence, Oregon, where we talked about the quality of firewood and politics. And I enjoyed the Vale gas station attendant’s thoughtful opinion of Trump. And there was Glynn and Loralie who’s paths I crossed three times on the trip. I thank Loralie for asking me: “Why are you going home?” I didn’t have an answer when she asked. I stayed out camping for another week. I imagine that Loralie’s question will be a part of all my future trips.

With the two recommendations below, that is the end of this story. Time to start planning the next trip.

The Facts

• I had heard about Vinmans bakery in Ellensburg. This trip I stopped. I will be stopping again on all trips when I pass through Ellensburg.
• The jerky at Mountain View Specialty Meats in Riggins had been recommended to me. They are also a meat market that sells beef, elk, and buffalo. I only tried their jerky and I can report that it was good.