Playing in and Around Pollock

 Pollock was my destination for the road trip I took earlier this month. And since it was a solo trip, I got to do the things I wanted.

My plan was to drive to the river and get a sunset photo, but the smoke from the Canadian fires moved in with the north wind. Shortly after I took this photo at the cemetery, the horizon clouds hid the sun as it made its descent. The photo was taken from the headstones of my dad and my brother. 

The cemetery is on a hill overlooking Lake Pocasse. 

I spent the first five (almost six) years of my early life on the farm that was located among the trees. Lots of memories from that place. I could not believe how green everything was, even the hills near the Missouri River; very rare considering the average amount of rainfall in this area.

You can see the smoky haze from the Canadian fires.

I stopped at the bison farm to take a photo.

The next three photos are from the next day as I was driving along Highway 1804 from Mobridge to Pollock. I enjoy the drive that often follows the Missouri River. It is very hard to see the river in this photo because of the smoke.

I also enjoy the drive on the 1804 because of the hills along the river. Again, seeing all the green grass on those hills in mid-July made my heart happy. 

On a smoke-free day, you could have glimpsed the Missouri River from this spot. 

There is just something about driving around the countryside in that area that restores my soul, especially when the countryside is GREEN!

The weekend I visited, Pollock hosted Pollock Days. It used to be called Dairy Days, sponsored by the local dairy plant. The parade passed by Mom's house.

Dairy Farmers of America float entry

Pollock High School class of '73

"From Senior Privileges to Senior Discounts

50 years"

3 wheeled motorcycle car

just one of the 5 fire trucks

both churches had floats

one of 3 brand-new pontoon boats

the one and only classic car in the parade

and the horses at the end of the parade

followed by the pooper scooper!

Every unit (except the horses) threw candy to the crowd. The 4 youngsters watching the parade from Mom's driveway each had a plastic shopping bag almost half full of candy! Parade entries were from the local community, but also from several area towns. Thirty units were registered, but I think twice that many drove through town, waving, honking and tossing candy. 

That evening I was entertained by street music and a very colorful 15 minute fireworks display, all without leaving the house! It was a good family reunion weekend visiting with cousins I don't see very often.