My grandmother, Isel Hug, was born and raised in Lostine and my father, Bill Knodell grew up in Enterprise. I was lucky to grow up visiting Wallowa County during summer and school holidays. I hoped to instill the magic of Wallowa County to my own children. My wife and I have taken our children up to Wallowa Lake every summer since they were born to visit the family cabin that my grandparents built in the 1930s. My older son, Kevin, is 15 years old and started high school this year. His first trip in the mountains was to Chimney Lake when he was 8 months old. Last summer he brought a friend with him to share the beauty of the Wallowas.

Over the years our family has enjoyed many articles in The Chieftain including those written by local students. My son Kevin wrote the following poem for a school assignment this fall. I think he has captured the magic of the Wallowas and I hope you enjoy it.

Brad Knodell

Portland

I know the Wallowas

I know the smell of fresh air in the early morning.

I know the aroma of pine and wildflowers.

I know the Wallowas.

I know the taste of water fresh from a mountain stream.

I know the taste of fresh made cinnamon twists at Vali’s.

I know the Wallowas.

I know the chorus of rain drops clanging on a metal roof.

I know the distant cry of a hawk echoing off the mountains.

I know the roar of hurricane creek as it runs its course.

I know the Wallowas.

I know the exhilaration of jumping in freezing water on a 95° day.

I know the realization that I forgot my bug repellent, as 10,000 gnats land on me.

I know the indescribable relief of taking off my boots after a ten mile hike.

I know the Wallowas.

I know the beauty of the Eagle Cap Wilderness, with forests as far as the eye can see.

I know the statue of Young Chief Joseph standing proudly in the town of the same name.

I know the crystal clear water of the high-lakes.

I know the Wallowas.

Kevin Knodell

2003