Teton Valley Days: A Float on the Southfork ... didn't go as planned!

A float on the Southfork sounded like a great way to spend Monday afternoon. Eager to try a new "fish taco bowl" recipe, I decided that would make a perfect picnic on the river. Cooler packed, boat and gear loaded, shuttle arranged, we headed out about noon. As we got on the river, there were a few clouds around, but with plenty of blue sky ahead we were hopeful that the clouds would provide shade, not rain and storms. I got a good turn on the oars, so Corb could fish. The fishing was pretty good, and we anchored at a couple of good spots. The clouds built and thunderstorms threatened, so we decided to row to the takeout and get off the river earlier than planned. As we contemplated "plan B" for our picnic, we both came up with the idea of checking out "the ridge," knowing that weather can vary a lot in a short time, and over a short distance. We enjoyed a wonderful tailgate picnic on the ridge - the fish taco bowls did not disappoint. The sky was spectacular -- clouds all around, with blue skies above and sun on the Tetons. The double rainbow was the icing on the cake. We spent time reminiscing about our many visits to this special place. We think we figured out that Corbin first camped here in 1994 and brought me to camp here for the first time in 1996. We then camped here in 1998, 1999, and 2000 - when we decided to buy a house in the valley! Since then we've had many overnight camping trips and picnics here. One of our most memorable was a picnic dinner with Gary & Sue and Joe & Ruth in 2002. Brady was 2 and I was pregnant with Connor (and on bed rest!). We still call this our "secret favorite place."

On our drive home, we wondered if Kath and Chad might welcome a visit. The answer was a resounding "yes" so we stopped for a visit. Chad was actually still fishing the Teton when we arrived, but got home soon after, and we all enjoyed a fun night, full of laughter as usual!

Corb and I appreciated that this day was really special -- it didn't go as planned, and ended up better!