Summer Apples

First day of Summer and back from Lewiston, Idaho. I was only there for a few days so I didn't get to see all the really cool stuff like museums and recreation areas but I can see that it has a nice small town feel to it - a nice place to raise kids.

I Googled Lewiston and found that one of it's claims to fame is that it is home to the farthest inland seaport in the western United States. Yes, a seaport more than 460 miles from the sea. There are many inland seaports so that isn't so unique but the fact that it is located on the Snake River makes it, well . . . interesting. I also read that it takes 50 hours for a loaded barge to travel from the seaport in Lewiston, Idaho to Portland, Oregon. The same is true of the trip from Portland, Oregon to Lewiston, Idaho. Also, Lewiston has the Spiral Highway or The Old Lewiston Grade, a twisting turning road that travels up (1500 feet up) and out of town. A favorite of some motorcyclists and one source cites it as the inspiration for the 50s rock hit "Hotrod Lincoln" but the lyrics were changed later to say San Pedro and Grapevine.

Just below our room at the Red Lion, looking out on Memorial Bridge, are a couple statues - I'm guessing they are depictions of Lewis and Clark - and one of the statues is standing, one arm extended and thumb sticking up as if the figure is trying to hitch a ride. I had to laugh because it is at a busy intersection. If I ever get over there again I am going to take the time to snap a picture of the scene.

And last, I am almost embarrassed to mention that one of the most fascinating things I encountered was a Safeway store perched atop a hill on Thain Grade Road(?). It looked so majestic up there I had to visit the store which proved a bit disappointing since it was like any other Safeway store built in the last 5 or so years.

Interesting place and so far away from the big city.