This club was unsuccessful and did not last long. Kootenai once again became quiet and empty until it was purchased by Debi and Mark Rolfing, an energetic couple from Maui. Again, Kootenai is serving as a summer camp and a perfect retreat. As I sway back and forth in the swing, the sun begins to slip behind the mountains, and shadows fall across the log cabins. The evening comes to a close and I walk down the slate rock path toward my canoe.
Fish rise, disturbing the glassy surface.
I slowly push my green canoe onto the calm water and step in, knocking my paddle to the bottom of the boat. The sound echoes through the still air. This day is ending and I paddle away from the Kootenai, a place that has always existed, for a succession of people, as a refuge and an escape. I gaze back at the undisturbed peacefulness that has made it one of my favorite places.