Past LaConner, On to Seattle

Seattle under a Full Moon

Parasailing out of Bell Harbour Marina

Que Syrah under Sail

After the morning fog lifted, we two and our guest ladies motored south at low tide to the Swinomish Channel. We saw at least 200 herons on the mud flats and a large group of lazy seals sunning themselves. Fortunately, most boats observed the low speeds required to avoid wakes in the narrow channel. We floated under the red Rainbow Bridge in LaConner and then, after a 90-degree turn, we were surprised to see a good friend aground. There on its side lay his Albin 25. After leaving LaConner at 5:30 am in the fog, he missed the turn. So, eight hours of waiting until the tide rose to float him; no harm done, only embarassment. Later he passed us while we were sailing out of Oak Harbor, and then we talked at the dock in Oak Harbor. After steak, potatoes, and zucchini for dinner at the dock picnic table, we had a peaceful evening.

The next day was a long slog to Kingston. We sailed a bit, but there's not much headway when the wind is on one's nose. But seas were relatively calm, so one can't complain too much.

Morning begins with crepes from the little shop by the ferry dock--the Jean-Valjean for some, Le Magnifique for me, and for Sally the fresh Peach Melba with ice cream! We discover that other friends are also on the dock on the beautiful Que Syrah, so more visiting before both boats depart. Immediately out of Kingston, we raise the sails and sail all the way to Seattle Bell Harbor. Que Syrah, a larger sailboat with an expert skipper, quickly outpaces us and leaves us for Tacoma. Both our guests get plenty of practice at the helm and they smile and smile. One more dinner aboard with Avignon sausages from the Pike Place Market, one more night of conversation and our ladies depart. We are on our own again.