Smith River Retreat, California

This beautiful spot on the Smith River was once an old mining claim. The property boundaries actually go half way out into the river. The present house was built in 1957 and has been remodeled a few times since. Forty years ago when looking for a place to rent, the host and her past husband were directed to this spot by some friends. They first rented from the neighbor who owned it, then later from the host's parents who had purchased it. A few years later, the host was able to buy it from her parents and has lived here happily ever since. She retired from teaching 7 years ago and spends much of her time improving the landscaping and gardening, while playing with her giant Shiloh Shepherd.