Hello

Hello from north Idaho! I live in Sandpoint with my husband, Steve, and our adorable dog, Roxy. Sandpoint is located in the northern, ‘Panhandle’ region of Idaho. It is surrounded by mountains filled with evergreen trees. It is also near the edge of beautiful Lake Pend O’reille, one of the largest fresh-water lakes in the world.

The scenic beauty reveals the handiwork of God and inspires the creative part of me. The mountains remind me of God’s strength and power. The evergreen trees remind me of perseverance and eternal life because these trees survive the snow-covered ground and extremely cold temperatures, yet every year they return for another season.

I love living in North Idaho because, as every season comes and goes, you can see God’s fingerprint on this land and the creatures He has created for us to enjoy.

 

In autumn, the leaves display colorful array of intricate designs that no human can ever create. When the sun shines on the leaves, they seem to sparkle. When the gentle breeze blows by, the leaves seem to dance on the tree branches. When a windstorm comes, the leaves fall to the ground and cover it–like a multicolored blanket.

When winter comes, snowflakes float gently through the air and cover everything with a clean white coat. Clumps of snow collect on the branches of the evergreen trees and they appear to have been covered with a coat of white frosting. Lake Pend O’reille freezes around the edges and local fishermen try their luck at ice-fishing. The mountains provide enjoyment for those who love to ski, snowboard or skate across the ice. When you look out the window of your home you see a beautiful white scenic picture. However, one step out in the cold temperature makes you appreciate the comfort and warmth of your home. 

As winter fades away and spring gently rolls in, the sun shines and the rain waters the land and vegetation. Trees, flowers and other vegetation seem to wake up from their winter nap and bring an abundance of color and life. Also, the birds and wildlife come out of hiding and make their homes and have their children. One doesn’t have to go far to get out into the evergreen trees and see these beautiful creatures roaming around. Yes, God’s handiwork is displayed in every intricate detail of creation.

In the Bible, Romans 1:18-20 tells us, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse.” God reveals Himself to mankind through His creation. A person only has to stop and intently look at the small, intricate details of each part of creation to know that mankind could never have made such a beautiful place. We can’t even fathom the greatness of Almighty God.

If you look closely at the details of the grass, trees, and even the fur on the elk in this picture you can see the intricate colors and know that God is the only one who could have made something so beautiful and so detailed. We saw these beautiful animals in a field as we traveled south on highway 95. We were less than five miles from our home.

 

I love living in this beautiful place. Every day I go outside or look out my living room window, I am reassured of the existence of the awesome God, my creator, provider and protector, who has me in the palm of His hand!