Yesterday we rose bright and early to get started on our drive to Whidbey Island. The days are shorter daylight now so we need an earlier start to ensure finishing in the daylight. The local mountains were visible as we left home.
and then it was like this.
Thankfully by the time we got to Deception pass it was clear. It stayed chilly and low light all day but we could see some views.
There is a heart rock in the rock work at the women's restroom just to the lower left of the door.
I took a close up of the heart rock.
The view looking towards the Olympics from west beach parking lot.
I enjoyed the sunrays through the forest.
The Deception pass bridge visible beyond the park amphitheater.
Old growth tree
To get to the Goose rock trail we walked under the bridge. I love this under view.
We made our way towards Cornet bay.
My dragon sighting!
Climbing up for the Cornet bay view.
Time to head up to the Balds. I chuckle when we pass these steps on the fallen log.
They lead to....no where.
I don't really know why someone went to such an effort.
Another up and we were at the top.
We were greeted by a long distance view of Mt. Rainier.
We could also see Cranberry lake and the Olympics in the distance.
After a chilly lunch on top we began making our way down. Into the world of Madrona trees and succulent plants.
The lower trail changes from Madrona to a large natural Rhododendron garden. My husband spied this colorful conk on the tree.
We followed the Discovery trail to make our way back to the campground area.
I always enjoy reading about how the forest was planted by John Tursi as a punishment for "mouthing off" to his supervisor during his CCC work. It is a beautiful forest.
After walking through the campground we joined the trail that parallels Cranberry lake and made our way back to the West beach parking lot.
As I was getting ready to get into the car I spied a sundog in the sky. What a perfect way to end our day on the trails.
Total distance: 7 miles
Total ascent: 1200 feet
Just a quick share of our nice family time in Sequim for Thanksgiving. We enjoyed our time with my parents. Dad is 92 and Mom is 89. Also a close up of some of the bounty of our meal.
Several of us walked on the beach while we were there. It's always a gift to be with my adult kids.
Taking photos of Mt. Baker together, our home across the sea.
I hope you and yours had a happy season of Thanksgiving.
Now as we approach December's magical season of giving, I hope you consider the gift you may be to someone just by being alive and by being you.
As my profile says:
"I believe that every person born on this earth is a relevant, impactful presence here. When each of us was born we permanently changed history. We are not just a speck that passes unseen. Our very existence leaves a mark, where it be in a person or just a footprint on the earth's surface. The earth is different because we exist . We are marked in our loved ones and friends souls."
A good thought to think about during the busyness of this month.
