Indian Island

We were on our way out of town for a hike up Turtleback Mountain when we noticed that the tide was out, and the tombolo (Italian word for sand bar that shows up at low tide connecting an island to a bigger island or mainland) was exposed.  Normally, Indian Island […]


Low Tide

We have visited Obstruction Pass State Park a few times, but this is the first time that we visited during low tide. An island friend had suggested it. Thank you! The puddles on Orcas’ beaches are not the same as the mud puddles we have in Nebraska. There, we might […]


Flying Things

One of the big events during August is the Orcas Island Fly-In, and we attended in 2015. I have to admit, though, that what really pleases me most is when I get to see the jet fighters in our skies. I know some aren’t fond of the sound nor of their purpose, but […]


Madrona Rain

A gentle breeze causes the Madrona tree to drop some of its mature blossoms.  As they land on the asphalt, they make a sound a bit like rain.  It is the end of April and, around the base of every Madrona tree, there is a drifting carpet of yellowish-white blossoms. For […]


Tulips 2

  We moved to Orcas Island in mid-2015. We had visited the area for several years before that and had been here for every season but spring. We are accustomed to fields of wheat or corn. Wind blowing through wheat when it is green or golden is quite beautiful. But, […]


Water-loving Wildlife

Jennifer’s Review: We went whale-watching yesterday with some friends celebrating a birthday! It was our first time, and we really enjoyed it. Deer Harbor Charters is an excellent family business with knowledgeable captains and naturalists. Nate was our captain, and Trey was our funny — even humorous — naturalist guide. […]


Webcams Around Area

Because of Friday Harbor’s post on their Facebook page, this is what I found today: http://www.desticam.com/   Kenmore Air also links to several webcams: http://www.islandcam.com/ At the bottom, there are links to many different area cameras.


Contrasts, Part 2

In July, we enjoyed visits from family! We took ferry rides, played games while watching the scenery and sunsets through our windows, gaped at the view from Mt Constitution (the smoke had mostly cleared), climbed Turtleback Mountain, made food, beachcombed (and saw algae-camouflaged crabs), wandered Eastsound, visited Obstruction Pass State […]


Fly-In

Orcas Island 2015 Fly-In A bit of weather but still some interesting planes and people. Many more images on my Flickr page   Many more images on my Flickr page


Contrasts, Part 1

We’ve been enjoying visits from family the last several weeks! None had been to the islands before, so it was fun to watch them explore and experience new things. It has been warm here this summer, but they come from the HOT regions of America where triple-digit temps are part of […]