First tulips of spring

We have had an unusually cool spring this year so the tulips have yet to burst upon the Skagit Valley. In my own yard, however, yellow tulips brave the chilly temperatures.

Dramatic Cascade Sunrise

The sunrise can also be one of drama and power.

The city of Oak Harbor is in the foreground while the Cascade Mountains are on the horizon.

Quiet Cascade Sunrise

The Cascade Mountains to the east are the scene for some awesome sunrises. The sunrise can be the product of an early morning mist, lending an sense of peace.

Ebey's Landing Historical Reserve

The reserve includes rich prairie land. While most of the land in the reserve is privately owned, its use is overseen by a Trust Board. This assures that the historical and natural resources of the area will be available for future generations. This view is looking east to the Cascade Mountains.

Ebey's Landing

Seen in the distance is the bluff overlooking Parego's Point. The area is part of the Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve. The reserve was set aside by congress in 1978 to preserve and protect the rural community. This view is to the northwest, along the west side of Whidbey Island, from Ft. Casey State Park.

Garry Oaks

Oak Harbor received its name from the number of oak trees in the area. The Garry Oaks are not native to the region and it is thought that Native Americans planted them. Shown here is Smith Park on a foggy winter day.

Oak Harbor, WA

The largest city on Whidbey Island is Oak Harbor. It is on the east side of the island next to a rather shallow bay.

Deception Pass Bridge

One of the most beautiful man made feature in the Puget Sound is the Deception Pass Bridge. It connects Fidalgo and Whidbey Islands. It is surrounded by a state part, one of the most visited in the state. About a two hour drive north of Seattle, it makes a great day trip.

Penn Cove Muscles

On the east side of Whidbey Island is an inlet called Penn Cove. The muscle farm in the cove provides muscles known throughout the Pacific Northwest. In the distance is Mt. Baker.

Snow dusted Olympics

Even though it is officially spring, we are still seeing new snowfalls. Here the Olympic Mountains show a fresh snowfall as they tower over Whidbey Island.

Photographic Whidbey Island

There are scores of photographers on Whidbey Island. Who can resist the beautiful views? Spectacular views occur daily.