Montana

Last night was our first official boondocking experience since we got our solar system installed. This morning we were showing our batteries charged 76%, so we’re happy with our system, especially since today was sunny all day. When we arrived at the Elks Lodge in Kalispell, our batteries were showing 100% charged. We're boondocking again tonight, since the Elks sites were full when we arrived.

I got up too late this morning to see the geese, but still had a pleasant walk. I spotted an osprey in the distance, diving for breakfast in the Pend Oreille

We crossed into Montana today. It’s the first time I’ve been in the state, but Ken flew into Great Falls for a business trip years ago. The drive across US 2 with the Rowes to Kalispell was long but very scenic, with views of snow-capped mountains, broad sunny valleys, and peaceful rivers, including the Pend Oreille and the Kootenai. We passed through one small town named Ponderay—evidently the residents have simplified the spelling.

Lunch was at a rest stop with a good view of the beautiful mountains we were driving through.

Chris called from the folk music jam at Ladd's Circle to say that they will sign the final papers tomorrow on the duplex they are purchasing, with closing set for July 31. The sellers agreed to do most of the repairs they asked for and will provide a credit to cover the electrical work.

During our drive, Tom discovered a minor problem on his trailer that he'll get repaired before we leave Kalispell in the morning.

Tonight we played a couple of hands of Rummikub with Tom and Nanci before heading for bed.