Blair’s frisky adolescence behind him, he got his first birthday wishes from Tomo. It’s tomorrow in Japan ( or is it yesterday)? With a grave new sense of responsibility Blair led us through 2 states, onward towards the hot springs with which he plans to celebrate his maturity.
Lewis and Clarke we aren’t but I really like Montana and plan to have my ranch there – the vineyard is set for Oregon!
Wonderful scenery, mountains giving way to sweeping grasslands, rushing rivers and a speed limit of 80 ( nominally).
HHThe two scientists discussed at length their dinner plans for when they arrived in Butte, first checking with the hot springs resort that food and drink would be available.
Then three things happened: rush hour in Spokane, extensive roadworks after ploughing through that and the discovery by the scientists that they had forgotten Mountain Time! This led to a diversion to 
and the oddly named Ciao Mambo. As Ian ordered the Barolo, I ran up the street to catch the setting sun in such an interesting place – lots of fit young people, great scenery and interesting stores: one to return to. You can find it 
Back in the restaraunt the delightful Claire ( the French way but named after Clair an English poet in an insane asylum: I’ve always liked parents with a sense of humor) navigated the menu for the boys, culminating in linguini con vongole.
Meantime I ran for the Sunset ( just missed it)
but I caught the Moonrise.
Claire was great, we all had crayolas ( perfect for a new 73 year old) and inspiration on the ceiling from previous diners – Michelangelos in Missoula.
As there were more than two hours driving in the dark to go, only a soupçon of Barolo was consumed as we geared up Leonard to guide us to Butte.
More roadworks but the speed limit compensated. No light pollution, starry skies and an almost full moon ( waiting for the birthday lunatic) and the last two songs as we arrived at midnight in Butte were Darkness and Amen. Everything closed, no glasses but we toasted the birthday boy with Barolo in a paper cup. At least there were two beds.
What a guy. Happy birthday Ian. We all treasure you. There is no limit – 27 more to the ton!
Joyeux anniversaire, Ian !
Huge hug from me.
“White hair often covers the head but the heart that holds it is young”
Honore de Balzac.
Thanks! I am just glad I have a few left
Tanti Auguri Ian!!!!! :-*
Thanks Bianca – it has been a fabulous way to spend it!
Can’t think of a better way to spend a birthday, well maybe keeping within the overly generous speed limit will ensure another birthday.
As you always say…everything in moderation or is it if you aren’t living on the edge you are taking up too much space…happiest of birthdays to a wonderful dad! Hope you are living on the edge in moderation. With love from the east coast ❤️❤️. And how could you forget mountain time ?!?!
Good lighthearted blog and beautiful pictures. Sunset in the top best 20:)
Dearest Ian, very happy Birthday! So nice to see you both happy. Have a great time for the rest of the trip! (sun) 🙂 (flower) Love: Angela
Thanks Angela – not sure I will ever drive 580 Miles to celebrate it again
Beautiful pictures! Happy belated birthday!
Thanks Gabriel – it has been a wonderful and exhilarating experience.
Love the Moonrise !,
It’s a pity about the Sunset ; you cannot be ever where.
Happy belated birthday dearest Professor Blair! ❤️🎊🎈
From all of us, Jane, Yao, Hannah and Ethan
Thanks Jane, Yao, Hannah, and Ethan! It was a wonderful experience thanks to John and Missy