Bloedel Reserve and Gardens

Sitting beautifully on a Japanese pine, “William” a barred owl, is from what I understand, a frequent visitor to Bloedel Gardens. While strolling through with a friend he made a showing that was not only surprising, but picture perfect.

And although an hour’s drive from Sequim, or an hour forty-five minutes via the Strait Shot bus, both the gardens and the preserve are absolutely stunning, and well worth the time spent traveling.

The reserve has a very interesting history dating back to 1951 when the property was acquired as a resident for Virginia and Prentice Bloedel (the house is beautifully restored and open for viewing), and in 1988, it opened to the public as a 140-acre public garden and forest preserve. On their website you can read more about the couple, their vision and mission for the future, and the incredible scenery.

And just recently, the gardens are welcoming visitors on a pay-what-you-wish basis on Welcome Wednesdays as part of the Reserve’s broad commitment to seek, include, and welcome all audiences.

So now there are no excuses not to visit, and when and if you do, I’m sure it will be an experience you’ll want to repeat.

A Nostalgic View of Pt. Wilson Light

If you’re like me, you love being by saltwater, and the site of a lighthouse is a clear indication that you’ll find what you like.

Fortunately, we have Dungeness Light right here in Sequim, and Pt. Wilson close by in Pt. Townsend. Since I haven’t built up the gumption to walk the 10-mile trail to ours as of yet, I drive to Pt. Townsend to visit Pt. Wilson Light instead – and it’s always worth the trip.

If you haven’t visited as of yet, I highly recommend it, and if at all possible, volunteer. You are sure to meet others who share your love of lighthouses, the community, and sharing its history with other visitors.

The Pt. Wilson website at www.pointwilsonlighthouse.org states that, ‘Volunteers are needed in many areas. Lighthouse Tours on weekends are run from May through September. Volunteer docents are needed to help interpret and lead visitors through the lighthouse. Share your enthusiasm with interested guests from around the world. Training provided. Fundraising and Public Outreach are a vital part of this project. If this is something you enjoy, we look forward to having your help. Future Plans include education programs, and exhibit design.

If you go to visit, you may want to stay for the sunset (and the stunning views). You can make plans to sleep in one of their vacation rentals, open year round, or just do a day trip.

Whatever you decide, be sure to dip your toes in the saltwater – and to snap a few photos of this wonderfully picturesque lighthouse, or bring along your watercolors or your digital paintbox!

More Snow on the Mountain

Hurricane Ridge on a spectacular winter day…

Hurricane Ridge Winter
Snow scripting

When a Facebook friend posted video of snow at her house yesterday, I was surprised that we didn’t see it as well. With our temps well into the 30’s I dread that it won’t be long until we’re shoveling the driveway – but I delight in the chance to capture the amazing snowboarders who turned this hillside into such a calligraphic expression of joy!

Eye to Eye

Once you fall in love with horses, there’s no going back.

Although one of the most frightening but also funny (afterwards) experiences of my life involved riding one, I now use my camera to express my love for them.

This particular beauty was being unloaded from a trailer parked at the Dungeness Recreation Area one day. Her owner was quite proud of her, and rightly so. Not only was she beautiful, but gentle, well cared for, and more than happy to transport her rider along the numerous trails that traverse the park.

And her owner, was careful to pick up after her, a trait I see with every horse owner I’ve met, and to keep the trail and the park a welcoming natural area for all who visit.