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Almost Paradise In North Idaho

Almost Paradise In North Idaho

By: Ted Ludlum
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In the beginning, God created a paradise. And then we messed it up! Today, living in North Idaho is almost paradise. ALMOST. Yes, the weather is often fantastic. There are 4 distinct seasons offering hunting, fishing, hiking, boating, canoeing, rafting, ATV trips, snow skiing, and more. Lakes and streams are everywhere. Mountains dominate the horizons, The forests are endless. Small towns (2 traffic-lights in our county!) dot the area. Independent minded, (mostly) conservative people live in these towns. But... summers are short and can get hot for a while. Smoke can fill the air from area wildfires. Winters are long, cloudy, snowy. Those days are short with the sun rising late and setting early. Liberal ideas are creeping in. The Good Old Boy Network is strong. Even here there is conflict. But Jesus reigns! Living in North Idaho is ALMOST paradise.

Ted Ludlum 2024
Politics & Government Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Episode 174: Shiloh Echo Retreat...Something Good For The Whole Family
    Jul 15 2026

    Every community has people who quietly step forward and decide to build something that will benefit others. They invest their time, energy, resources, and often a fair amount of faith, hoping that what they create will make a difference.

    In today's episode we visit with Tony Marsella—not because he seeks recognition, but because of his willingness to strengthen families, churches, and entire communities. He and his wife are putting together the upcoming Shiloh Echo '26 Christian Family Retreat in September.

    As the conversation progressed I found myself thinking less about the schedule of events and more about the courage it takes to bring a vision like this to life.

    Whether it's organizing a retreat, coaching a youth team, leading a Bible study, or volunteering behind the scenes, quiet builders like Tony remind us that faith is more than belief. Sometimes faith looks like rolling up your sleeves, taking a risk, and creating a place where hope can grow.

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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • Episode 173: A Morning Brew - North Hill, E-Bikes, and Guardian Angels
    Jul 13 2026

    This week's Morning Brew begins with a confession: I own an e-bike...and I love it.

    But after passing a younger neighbor riding his bicycle to our men's Bible study, I found myself wrestling with a little guilt, a lot of humor, and an unexpected challenge. Should I dust off my old Trek, rely on my trusty e-bike, or find a happy middle ground?

    Along the way, I discovered this story isn't really about bicycles at all. It's about growing older, accepting new challenges, climbing life's "North Hills," and trusting that sometimes our guardian angel is giving us just the little push we need.

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    13 mins
  • Episode 172: Morning Brew - The Day the Noon Whistle Went Silent
    Jul 10 2026

    What happens when a town's faithful noon whistle suddenly falls silent? Ted shares the surprising story of Bonners Ferry's missing lunchtime tradition and discovers just how much we take the little things for granted.

    Along the way, he recalls a hilarious childhood encounter with a determined little old lady, a bicycle, and a very well-aimed garden hose.

    With humor, nostalgia, and a gentle reminder to slow down, Ted reflects on the simple traditions that bind a community together and the wisdom found in Psalm 46:10: "Be still, and know that I am God."

    Sometimes the biggest lessons come from the smallest hometown stories.

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    8 mins
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