Lazy Days In The San Juan Islands

Sunday actually felt like the tides were turning as the temperature "soared" the high sixties in Friday Harbor, Washington. So we packed up the camera gear and headed off in search of photo opportunities- the sun was shining and the weather was gorgeous! First stop was the southern tip of the island, where I had word there was a juvenile elephant seal hauled out on one of the beaches. Arriving at the shoreline, I was greeted by a red tailed hawk- usually an elusive creature- but he was boasting a large green snake in his talon and I suspect was trying to keep me from scavenging his kill...

Heading down the beach, Bogey in tow, we finally happened upon the elephant seal- clearly taking advantage of the warm beaches and fragrant blooms.

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Elephant seals take their name from the great size of their bodies and bull's large proboscis, which resembles an elephant's trunk. The proboscis is used in producing extraordinarily loud roaring noises, especially during the mating season, but it also allows the elephant seal to re-moisturize itself while hauled out. Adult males weigh in at about 4,500 pounds while female elephant seals are much smaller. The skin on top of their blubber molts periodically. It has to be re-grown by blood vessels reaching through the blubber. When molting occurs, as this photo depicts, the seal rests on land- and the skin on top of his blubber  has to be re-grown by blood vessels reaching through the blubber to create the new layers. For an elephant seal, this is called a catastrophic molt which occurs every year.

Elephant seals, like all true seals (phocids), lack external ear flaps and crawl on land with rhythmic belly flops. The Northern elephant seal is protected in Mexico and the USA.

We left the seal to spend the rest of the day watching several groups of fox pups on the south side of the island...

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San Juan Island is a treasure in the Pacific Northwest...from the pebbled beaches to the grassy side roads, the Island teams with life at every turn. And we cannot forget about those whales...J pod made a beautiful pass close to the shores this morning around 6:00am...and life is good.

And there's more fun stuff at Zazzle- today featuring all things Science!

Have great day!

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San Juan Island Lighthouses

San Juan Island is home to two of the most scenic lighthouses in the Puget Sound, namely the Lime Kiln Lighthouse and Cattle Point Lighthouse.

LIME KILN LIGHTHOUSE

Situated on the rocky shoreline on the west side of the island's Westside Road, Lime Kiln Lighthouse is a VERY popular whale-watching location. Visitors spend can spend the day watching orcas, porpoises, seals lions and river otters playing just offshore of the rocky point. Peak tourist season is May through September, with June and July being the most likely months to see whales.The lighthouse, built between 1914 and 1919, remains a significant navigational beacon for ships in the Haro Strait. Interpretive programs are offered by the Whale Museum with scheduled tours available during the summer months. The light derives its name from lime kiln operations back in the 1860's.

Lime Kiln remains the last major lighthouse constructed in Washington State. The lighthouse boasts a 38-foot concrete tower and fog signal building and was the last electrified light (in the 1940's). Automated in 1962, Lime Kiln Lighthouse is accessible through Lime Kiln State Park on the west side of San Juan Island.

CATTLE POINT LIGHTHOUSE

Cattle Point Lighthouse derives its name from the flocks of sheep and cattle that grazed in the area, owned by the Hudson Bay Company. The first light on Cattle Point, a simple brass lens lantern on a post, was established in 1888. Then, in 1912, the Navy added a navigational compass near the light on the south eastern side of the Island and the Cattle Point Lighthouse now became a significant tool for traveling in the dense fog which tends to accumulate at the point. Automated in the 50's, the lighthouse is located within the Cattle Point Interpretive Area, next to the San Juan National Historical Park off of Cattle Point Road.

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Labs, Orcas and River Otters, Oh My!

I have to begin today expressing my deepest gratitude to a wonderful woman named Rachel Goodremont. The story goes something like this...

On March 13th I lost the absolute love of my adult life, a beautifully gentle-soulded yellow lab named Mulligan. It is an intense story of love and devotion that cannot be given justice on paper just yet, but let it suffice to say that she was a constant companion and a devoted friend who cannot ever be replaced. With her loss has come crying jags, inconsolable grief and months of true emptiness- there's a huge place in our home and our hearts that is still trying to devise a life without her sweet face at every turn. Each passing day brings additional acceptance of her loss- the crying jags have reduced in frequency and duration but I still miss her with every fiber of my soul.

Yesterday, as my husband was leaving for work, he offhandedly reminded me that we had scheduled a meeting with a local electrician to look at some ongoing lighting issues we've had. I nodded as he left, acknowledging I'd be here- and off he went to work. At 11:00, he arrived with Rachel, and both of them had devious little smiles on their faces. In they walk, both trying to act nonchalant...as they unfolded two of the most beautiful portraits that I have ever seen. Tears burst from my eyes as I looked at the first portrait- Rachel had taken one of my most coveted photographs of Mulligan and created a masterpiece in pastels. The eyes are what enrapture me each time I look- she has captured the very soul and essence of Mulligan- moreso than the photograph from which she worked. And unveiling the second piece I found myself staring into the face of Mulligans' beloved sister, Bogey- who has been my fearsome companion, allowing me great comfort as we snuggle during moments of sadness. We know she has grieved too- and I can only hope I have given her some comfort during her sad moments too. I was floored...and here's the big "ta da...." See for yourself....

Chapper's Mulligatawny

aka "Mulligan"

September 1997- March 2008

Rachel and Mike pulled this off without a hitch and I will be forever grateful to both of them for these beautiful tributes to two of my best friends on Earth. Please take some time to visit Rachel's gallery below by clicking on the photo.

I know this blog is supposed to focus on whales, so here's an update! Can you say Superpod? All three pods, J, K and L's were seen together for the first time this season just Tuesday- I, of course, was on a conference call, as they passed- jumping around and trying to remain composed as I watched whale after whale pass by my window- so close to shore I could barely see them through the trees. Rumor has it K pod has welcomed a new calf - you can read accounts of the experience here!

And the otters- well, Jeanne and I watched them playing in the kelp beds off the lighthouse during one of our stints waiting for the whales to pass this week...a group of 4-5 passed us just before the whales!

That's "all for now!" Happy Thursday! Sandy

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Sports in the San Juan Islands

An important component to life in the San Juan Islands is taking the time to appreciate all the beauty and camaraderie of friends and opportunities offered. The San Juan Islands are known for scenic coastal vistas and hospitality providing an array of travel and vacation opportunities for visitors, not the least of which are inspiring sporting options for many enthusiasts!

San Juan Marathon

Today, the annual Marathon (which is USATF certified), begins and ends at Friday Harbor Country Fairgrounds and features a full and half marathon. Runners come from across the country to participate in what promises to be a great day! The marathon offers one very scenic out and back along the west side of San Juan Island, offering views of both Haro Strait and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Both the Full and the Half offers classic rolling hills and views of farmlands that make up the interior of the island. Being that the island is hilly, both courses are challenging, but very rewarding. If you missed out, check out their website for next year! 

San Juan Golf

That being said, there are many other options to take advantage of the great outdoors in Friday Harbor and the surrounding Islands. Sailing, kayaking, golf and diving are popular pastimes- keeping you close to wildlife and fantastic views during your stay! The local golf course in Friday Harbor is open to the public and is played twice to make up the 18 holes. Some water and strategically-placed bunkers are in play.Semi-Private, 9 holes, Par 36 

Scuba Diving

If diving is your fancy, Deep Sea Charters of Anacortes offers dive charter serving the San Juan Islands and Puget Sound. Washington state diving is known around the world as a top diving destination- always ranked in the top ten of world dive spots! Visibility can be great, currents can be minimal and you can expect to find spotsblanketed with life!

I've covered the fantastic kayaking in an earlier blog and you cannot miss with a sailing charter while you're here! Yesterday we spent all day watching J Pod cavort on the west side of the island- traveling up and down the banks very close to shore for the better part of the day.  Last heard they were headed North- so stay tuned...the summer has not even begun!

LOOKING FOR GIFTS TO COMMEMORATE YOUR STAY?  HERE ARE JUST A FEW SPORTS THEMED ITEMS AVAILABLE FROM ZAZZLE FEATURING LIFE IN THE SAN JUAN ISLANDS!

CHECK OUT THE GALLERY HERE!

Kayaking Season in the San Juan Island is Upon Us!

The San Juan Islands are one of the most beautiful sea kayaking locations in the world. Advanced to beginner, the islands offer great tours with time spent on the water that will leave lasting memories of picturesque views and memorable wildlife encounters. It is not uncommon to happen upon the local resident community of killer whales on the west side of San Juan Island..and your day should be filled with watchable wildlife at every turn. River otters cavorting in the kelp bed, eagles perched on treetops, herons hunting the shallow- the islands offer it all.

Commemorate your trip to the islands by visiting one of the local retailers or be sure to check with your tour operator to see what they have to offer. I also have some kayaking gifts on Zazzle! You may want to visit and check them out-

There are many choices in the islands- be sure to check out your selected operator to ensure they follow the Whale Watch Guidelines established to protect the southern resident community of orcas. You can obtain a downloadable brochure at the Whale Museum's website here:

  Whale Watch Guideline Brochure

Whale Watch Guidelines

Whale Watching

+Be cautious and courteous – approach areas of known or suspected marine mammal activity with extreme caution. +Look in all directions before planning your approach or departure.

Avoid approaching closer than 100 meters to any whale.

+Stop immediately and allow the whales to pass if you are unexpectedly within 100 meters.

+Avoid approaching whales from the front or from behind. Always approach and depart whales from the side, moving in a direction parallel to the direction of the whales.

+Keep clear of the whales’ path and avoid positioning within the 400 meter area in the path of the whales.

+Limit viewing time to a recommended maximum of 30 minutes and do not swim with or feed whales.

Porpoises and Dolphins

Observe all guidelines for watching whales.

+Do not drive or kayak through groups of porpoises or dolphins.

+Reduce speed gradually and avoid sudden course changes if dolphins or porpoises approach.

Seals, Sea Lions and Birds on Land

+Avoid approaching closer than 100 meters to any marine mammals or birds.

+Slow down and reduce your wake/wash and noise levels.

+Pay attention and back away at the first sign of disturbance or agitation.

+Be cautious and quiet when around haul-outs and bird colonies, especially during breeding, nesting and pupping seasons (generally May to September).

+Do not swim with or feed any marine mammals or birds.

But most of all, take a deep breath of fresh sea air, paddle hard and have some fun!!!!

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Southern Residents Leave and Return in the Same Day!

So, with the end of the Memorial Day weekend upon the San Juan Islands, we were greeted with the glum news that J Pod had decided to head west Monday morning. The news had them heading out the San Juan Channel off the shore of Victoria, BC. So, we planned a picnic down at the beach- lots of fun was had by one and all! However, by nightfall, the news as better- J Pod had turned and were heading east back towards San Juan Island! One of my good friends, Jeanne Hyde writes about listening to them on the hydrophones as she heads off to sleep- read more here!

Whale of A 'Purpose': Whale Tango!"

J Pod Pass

On another note, I want to send out a shout to one incredibly talented composer named Alex Shapiro who lives on San Juan Island. We met a while ago on MySpace, but today I found her blog!!! Wow!!!

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Memorial Day Weekend in The San Juan Islands

Some days it's all about appreciating what island life has to offer. We spent the afternoon down at the beach with our black lab Bogey- doing some tide pooling, a little swimming and having alot of fun! While J Pod was right outside of this little shore area, blowing and cavorting their day away on the west side, we just shared some "family time!" We did get to see Slick and her family from the shore, so all in all, another great day in the Islands- and add to that we finally reached 70 degrees and smiles were had by one and all.

The tide was quite low Saturday and lots of sea life could be found in all the nooks and crannies- crabs, star fish and plenty of hermit crabs and snails.

Custom Postage & Gifts Featuring Friday Harbor Images

Buy Custom Postage at Zazzle!

Check out a cool site that features everything from wildlife photography to beautiful watercolors! Zazzle.com is an veritable feast for your eyes- you can design your own or customize products already available online! You can chose from custom stamps to personalized tee's- and just about everything in between! I have featured Friday Harbor on one of the sites (feel free to visit by clicking the heading above)!Some examples of items are below- this site is just too fun! Want something customized for a special occasion? Send me an e-mail and we'll get started today!


Stop In Today at Zazzle


More Sports Gear Here at Zazzle


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J Pod in The San Juan Islands!

Southern Resident Community Update!

Today we spent the entire day watching J pod cavort on the west side of San Juan Island. Sometimes far from shore and sometimes so near you could touch them- here's a shot from Lime Kiln lighthouse (a perfect example of having the wrong zoom lens on during a close pass to shore)!!!

The pass began approximately 9:00am with the whales headed close to shore from Pile Point towards Hannah Heights. Once they approached the Heights, we were able to see that the leaders were Slick and her family! That being said --within minutes they turned and headed south!!! Later in the day, we were able to watch them pass Lime Kiln, frolicking and providing us with alot of shore based whale watching opportunities!

Orca Whales Postcard
by

sandybuckley

And the day ended down at the beach watching the graceful antics of local harlequin ducks...can you say...LIFE IS GOOD? Well, it certainly is!

Harlequin Duck Notecards
by

sandybuckley

Get this custom card
at Zazzle

Fox Pups on San Juan Island

Pupping Season is Upon Us!

Fox Pup Notecards - Customized
by

sandybuckley

We are very fortunate to have a diverse and varied animal population on San Juan Island that is supported by a community appreciation and respect for nature and her wonders. One of the populous creatures you will find on the islands are fox- a member of the dog family. On the island, there are several color variations of the red fox, including red, silver, and cross, as well as combinations of all three. We've seen them feast on birds, field mice and rabbits (especially down at American Camp- where it is always fun to watch them hunt the rabbit dens at sunset)- but they will also eat raccoons and ducks! Plants make up another portion of their diet- and the pups are often seen munching on the grasses around their culvert dens!

Everywhere you turn this month and well into the summer you will find frolicking fox pups in roadside culverts and grass embankments. So, if you're on the island, please take heed and keep them in mind!!!

Fox Kit Notecards Friday Harbor, WA
by

sandybuckley

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The Southern Residents Return!

This morning as I arrived home from a grueling workout- something caught my eye offshore in the water.  I hastily made my way into the driveway and ran upstairs to the telescope and found...a whale!!!  As I am trying to figure out what type of whale, one of my dear friends (a whale watch operator) happened to call. I excitedly told him I had found a whale- and sure enough- within a few minutes I could tell it was an orca....so the question was....is this a lone transient or the first of a pod of residents!!!  

Sure enough, J pod has returned!!! As a watched, I began to revel in the open saddle patches which could only mean resident whales- and then sure enough, I get a quick view of Keet in my finder and soon thereafter, family members too!

Orca Whale Postcard
by

sandybuckley

Get this custom postcard
at Zazzle

But more importantly, this just in!!!

Citizens File Petition to Place County in GMA Invalidity
posted 05/09/2008
PRESS RELEASE: On May 7, 2008 citizens filed a petition with the Western Washington Growth Management Hearings Board seeking to have a finding of invalidity against San Juan County for noncompliance with the Growth Management Act concerning sewer service in Eastsound on Orcas Island. The named petitioner is Stephen F. Ludwig, an Orcas resident, and the petition filing is signed by Dorothy Austin.

A finding of invalidity would mean the county would be prohibited from issuing building permits, at a minimum within the Eastsound Urban Growth Area. The petition alleges that the county has allowed urban development in Eastsound without completing a plan to ensure protection of public health and specifically failing to successfully negotiate an agreement with Eastsound Sewer and Water District to guarantee sewer service in the Eastsound UGA.

"The County recognizes the importance of adequate sewer service in the Eastsound UGA and has worked earnestly to achieve this and comply with the Western Washington Growth Management Hearings Board orders," said Ron Henrickson, Director of Community Development & Planning for San Juan County. "This has been a difficult process, because – as the petitioners noted – sewer service is provided by an independent public utility."

In negotiations with the County last year, ESWD committed to provide a sewer plan by March 30, 2008. As of the date of the petition the County had not received the plan, but the Utility has assured San Juan County that the document will be delivered within the next few days. Howie Rosenfeld, Chair of the San Juan County Council said, "An order of invalidity would have far-reaching economic and personal impacts on Eastsound and the County as a whole. The County is committed to doing everything within our purview to address the concerns of the Hearings Board and the sentiments expressed by the petitioners."

Henrickson said that the County will file a response to the petition within several days of receiving the promised document from the ESWD. "If the plan is satisfactory, we would anticipate that the Hearings Board will allow us enough additional time to incorporate the sewer plan into County's Comprehensive Plan, which should bring us into compliance relative to this item," he said. Rosenfeld added, "GMA compliance should be of concern to all citizens and the Council considers it one of the county's top priorities."

A copy of the petition is available at

http://www.sanjuanco.com/docs/news/ludwiggmapetition.pdf

Friday Harbor May 2008

Friday Harbor in spring has to be one of the most beautiful places on earth. Well, at least to me...smiles. Flowers are flowering, birds are mating and the first fox pups are arriving. Just this week baby foxes were spotted on West Side Road- and there are finally signs up to remind motorists to SLOW DOWN! Last year we spent a week trying to rescue two of the pups who had been hit by speeding cars- ti was hard to watch but they were eventually captured and completely rehabilitated by Wolf Hollow. To follow the rehab efforts on the island, be sure to visit their site...www.wolfhollowwildlife.org

Speaking of foxes, this was a picture I captured of their mom last year!

Here's Looking at You Mousepad
by

sandybuckley

And the birds...we have eagles en masse this month as well as quail who have just recently returned to the island. Below are some of the birds you'll pretty much see most of the year on the island.

Birds of the San Juan Islands Collage
by

sandybuckley


As a follow up we did have the chance to eat at COHO and it was definitely well worth the wait. The food is divine- the salmon is to die for and the duck salad is unrivaled. AM & Dave certainly have their hands full- but the ambiance was fantastic and the menu perfect! Check it out here! http://www.cohorestaurant.com/index.html

I am back in town and will be adding frequently- April was a wild and crazy month! News today is that there are whales headed North of the island through Active Pass- no one yet knows who they are- but could this be J Pod who is "overdue?" Detail to follow! Sandy Buckley