Final Day of Mini-Vacation in the Sawtooths

Another (better) version of this picture from our day hike.

 After another great breakfast at Smiley Creek Lodge, we checked out and drove back toward Redfish Lake for some beach time.  We made one quick stop at the Sawtooth Fish Hatchery on our way, before heading to the lake.  How amazing are Salmon?!  Wow.

 After a little walk along the beach, we went back to the Jeep and suited up for some swimming and snorkeling.  We took some snacks and drinks, along with our snorkeling gear, down to a quiet little beach.  These photos were taken when we first arrived, before we got ready to swim.  When we returned, there were white caps and some chilly winds blowing, so we took our time getting in the cold water...but eventually we ventured in and took a little dip in that crystal clear -- seriously! -- super clean and refreshing water.  

Such an absolutely beautiful place!

 Can't say it enough - I love it here!

 Another lovely day!  We enjoyed several hours at Redfish Lake, soaking up the sunshine and fresh air, along with the remaining quiet time of our little getaway for two.  Mid-afternoon we wrapped up our trip by making some final purchases in the gift shop for the kids, Mom & Dad, and even found a nice hat for Gary and a pretty t-shirt on sale for me.  Little reminders of this rejuvenating trip together.

These photos and memories will provide my "happy place" during the non-vacation days and dreary winter  months ahead, and I'll look forward to the next time we can get back to this incredibly beautiful place....  

On a side note, the end of July will mark the 18th anniversary from when I moved out here to Idaho from my (also lovely) home state of Minnesota.  It's hard to believe it's been 18 years -- I sure do love Idaho and am so grateful God led me here to this amazing & adventurous place.