Montana

General Crook's biggest battle against the Northern Planes Indians was near Rosebud Creek in what is now Montana. It was not a success, though it was not a defeat either, especially compared to the Custer disaster that happened only 8 days later against the same tribes.

The Northern Planes Indians were a powerful fighting force and surprised Crook and other US commanders with their tactical and strategic skills. Unfortunately for the Indians, they were outmatched not in martial skill, but in numbers and the ability to keep themselves supplied with food and arms. Most of the tribes surrendered the following year.

The Little Bighorn Battle site and National Cemetery:

We had a lunch stop in Billings, one of the coolest towns in Montana, where we stayed with Uncle Tom 8 years ago.

We had a great time in White Sulfur Springs. Our hotel had an old-fashioned hot-springs fed spa and we had a fun dinner at Bar 47 where the owner invited Celeste in.

We revisited Flathead Lake for a couple days and nights of relaxation:

As a father, I am not fond of bikinis, but I have little control over outfits these days, and for now it is all pretty cute and innocent:

Celeste in her natural environment:

Sophie hitting Daddy with celery:

Hat full of rocks:

Water is fun:

Sophie's Andy Goldsworthy-style installation: