LifePortraits at Double Helix Ranch in May, Idaho (in June)

So WAY out in May, Idaho (uh, that's past Challis and Ellis then take a right on a farm road for another 16 miles, then a dirt road for another mile or so), is a house that doesn't look like the others, called Double Helix Ranch. Owned by the super nice Jim and Karen Posada -he's a wiz at biotech - and thus the name. They wanted me to come out and do some lifestyle portraits of them and all things dear to them, Katie the dog, and as many cats as I could lure into camera range, as well as some portraits of the house.  They don't have kids, but the house is kind of like their baby - a labor of love over many years picking the spot and building it with the architectural help of Derik Ryan. 

I drove out there in my VW Westfalia van for the evening light, then slept in my van (oh the stars!) and caught the morning light for some more pics. Before leaving, they treated me to breakfast at the Giddy Up cafe, to catch up on all the latest gossip. I love my job  ; )

Multi-generational Portraits at the Family Cabin

 Every other year Margaret and her family come together at the family cabin out Baker Creek for a re-union. I photographed their wedding (back in the film era) and now I'm honored to document their growing family. My favorite part about my job is getting to know and becoming friends with my clients. After the photo shoot they invited me to stay for dinner - what a treat!

life cracks me up sometimes. Here's the little guy poking Grandma in the eye! ah, that's life!

for more family portrait click on Sun Valley family portraits by Thia Konig

Published in Sun Valley Habitat Magazine

So my cabin story finally got published! Of course for all the time I spent on it, I wish they had used more, but that's how it goes with magazines. It was fun working with Robin on this story and she made it a lot less like work, and I loved hanging with each of these families. That's what makes the cabin, btw, is the family and friends you surround yourself with while you're in it!

click here for more pics of Serenity

click here for more pics of LollyGag

click here for more pics of the Salvoni's cabin (my neighbors in real life!)

Vacation rental in Sun Valley

Escape to Sun Valley and this soul pad retreat with character. Nestled away near a park so it's quiet (birds sing even in the winter!), yet walking distance to town. Beautiful new maple hardwood floors, granite countertops, and accented with art and treasures from over 20 years of globetrotting. Welcome home!

The living area and stairs up to the master bedroom. Pellet stove, surround sound, WiFi. Plug your own iPod in to the dock and enjoy your own music.

When was the last time you slept in a waterbed? This ain't your college waterbed, though, as this has waveless baffles and a support floatation mattress on top (and a memory foam topper for good measure!), Egyptian cotton 600 ct. sheets, and an organic cotton duvet with a down comforter. Warm and snuggly in the winter, and so comfortable, you won't be able to get out in the morning. Ok, for a hot tub and morning coffee, maybe? Or a powder morning! There is grass cloth on the ceiling to give the feeling of being in a tropical jungle treehouse. Watch the snow fall on the trees without getting out of bed.

There is nothing better than your own private hot tub on the upper deck, right off the master bedroom. Your white robes are waiting. You can see the milky way and the Sun Valley firework shows right from the tub. Don't forget the candles.

Soothe your soul or your aching muscles after a fabulous day skiing on the hill

Yes, that's a Jimmy Hendricks print on the wall. The downstairs maharaja/rock star room has a private patio for snow entry and covered gear storage if you like.

Private covered patio - store your ski gear in the winter, or your bikes in the summer.

Dining area and kitchen.

Granite countertops, sharp knives, spice drawer, dish washer, microwave, coffee maker, etc.

New Years Eve dump a couple years ago!!

Looking towards the park. Thank god someone else shovels the walkways.

A shady, cool respite in the summer.

I hope you enjoy my home as much as I do!

to see the listing and check the availabilty calendar in Vacation Rental by Owner (VRBO.com) click here

Here are some comments from guests so far....

"We had a great time and truly enjoyed staying at your beautiful condo. We all enjoyed looking at the pictures, art, and travel momentos on the walls and around the condo. The kids were also entraced by the lave lamps. The weather, skiing, food, and shopping were all good and made for a nice relaxing trip -- just what the doctor ordered. Also, thanks for the extrtas that you provided while we were there - the gift cert to the Roosevelt Grill, the wine, the wine bottle opener, etc. all very nice touches."- Ken & family

"Thank you SO much for sharing your lovely home with us! We had the best anniversary ever - and that is priceless!!" - Sincerely, Chris & Tim!

Thank you SO much! We had a great time - your hospitality was greatly appreciated! - Darcy & Sara

"Dear Thia,

Mark and I feel so blessed to stay in your home during our vacation. Everything was perfect! We appreciated all your special touches. We will definitely stay again (if available) as Mark and I love this area! Thanks so much......." - Renee and Mark

"Thia - Thanks for everything. We had a great time in SV & we LOVED your condo! Thanks again!" - John & Krisha

"Thia - Thank you SO MUCH for letting us use your 'totally groovy' soul pad. We had a great time in Sun Valley and I'm sure my mom and aunt enjoyed their dinner with you. Thanks again! Minnesota Madigan

"Thia - We had a great time staying at your fun 'soul pad'. Meeting you also was a treat!! We will definitely stay in touch. Remember - you're Maddies wedding photographer!! Thanks for all the extras, too!! Liz

Thia,

Thank you!! We had a great time & your place was perfect for our little family. The location was so close to everything & that was really nice. We enjoyed the YMCA, the shops, the symphony, bike rides, the art festival & your hot tub! ; )

The kids left a little art work for you that they made at the festival. Enjoy the rest of your summer!

- The Flamm Family

Thia,
    Thank you SO MUCH for the hospitaity. We had a great time & look forward to another visit. Stay in touch & let us know if you ever make it to Seattle, you've got lodging.
Wishing you the best!
 - Rachael & Michael

SUPERB CHILL PAD
My hubby and I so enjoyed the condo. Very comfortable, cool vibe, perfect walk to stretch the legs for groceries, a movie in town, to catch the shuttle for a lift to the lifts or just for fun! Clean, comfy, fun, great music selection, cool art, and superb landlord. Not only would I suggest this rental to others - we will be back!
 - Rachael & Michael

Thia,
Thanks so much for everything....your help, enthusiasm and beautiful home were perfect for our family vacation. Wish we had moe time to get to know you better AND have you take our portraits! We very much hope to see you again next year and will try to make that happen.
Cheers! Steph, Scott, Dave, Justin & Audry

Thia - Thank you! We had a great week. Thanks for arranging to have lots of fresh snow! Your place was perfect for us - Holly
This has been perfect for our family! We thank you so much!! Come visit us in N.Y. - Skip (Holly's husband)

contact the owner by email thiakonig@gmail.com or by phone 208 727 3686

See the listing in VRBO.com

view from master bedroom upper deck & hot tub - added 3/10/11