It’s that time of the year, when the veil between the living and the spirits is said to be the thinnest, when we light fires and lanterns, wear masks and costumes to ward of the ghosts, when we remember our dead and our saints and plead with them to let us make it safely through another Winter.
If you have ever lived in a place with seasonal tourism you’ll know: the exhale after the high season is over, the giddiness of the first rain after the Summer, the gratefulness resulting from the earth's changing position in regard to the sun. We San Juan Islanders created a month-long celebration around this feeling and call it Savor the San Juans.
I cherish the fact we have seasons in our gorgeous Washington State. I love the deep blues of the sky and the Salish Sea when the sun shines. I love the rain, washing everything clean and keeping our place green and lush, even in the height and heat of Summer. I love the cold snaps, giving the apple blossoms their signal to emerge and making the wine grapes sweet. And I love the Fall, the abundance of harvest, the clean, crisp air, the colors.
We had a tumultuous Summer, my husband and I--involving teenaged kids, aging grandparents, a health scare, several moves. Events which challenged the way we think of ourselves, our way to handle crisis, to evaluate what’s worth doing in life and how to appreciate what we have.
What do freshly shucked oysters, Madrona-infused Brandy and lavender massage oil have in common? They are all sustainably grown and lovingly made on San Juan Island. Clean water, clean air and fertile soil make the isle not only the perfect place for wild things, like the Orca Whales and Bald Eagles, but also for small, family-owned farms to grow and manufacture healthy, fun, unique crops. The best part: you can tour these unusual farms for free and eat, drink and smell your way through their exquisite harvests.
I consider San Juan Island my home away from home. When I board the ferry to Friday Harbor, all my worries melt away. As soon as the boat rounds the corner into the port of town, time slows down and I realize I have a huge smile on my face.
Visiting San Juan Island doesn’t have to burn a hole in your pocket. It is true, things are a bit more expensive here than on the mainland. Just think that everything, from pillow to nail, from gas to coffee has to be shipped or flown over. Wages, taxes and utilities, especially drinking water, are much higher. But don’t let that keep you from experiencing beautiful San Juan Island with its pristine nature, astonishing wildlife and amazing culture. There are tons of fun, unique things to do here which only require your presence and sense of wonder and don’t cost a thing. Come explore!
Pristine San Juan Island, nestled in the crystal-clear waters in the north of Washington State, is known for its breathtaking nature, diverse wildlife and rich history. It is also home to incredibly talented and creative people, inspired by their serene surroundings, rivaling the cultural offerings of big cities. We are honored with more working artists per capita than anywhere else in Washington State.
All of us here at the Bird Rock Hotel wish you a very happy and healthy New Year! Another year, another holiday season and we are all still here and ready to start the new year off right with these tips on how to relax and de-stress after the holidays:
The 35 year old Westcott Bay Shellfish Company in the north of San Juan Island, once served their tasty bivalves all over the country. Over the years, the farm declined and was eventually put up for sale as a home site.
