There are two ways to get onto Whidbey Island from where I live: ferry boat or a drive through Skagit Valley to Deception Pass, through Fidalgo Bay, then onto Whidbey. I chose to drive up, and take the ferry home. It is an absolutely stunning trip along WA Hwy 20 W this time of year. Tulip season is just starting; it was uplifting to see the start of acres and acres of red, yellow, pink and white as I drove toward Deception Pass. I was born in Mt. Vernon, one of the largest "cities" there, so it also feels sort of like going home every time I go there. I didn't stop for pictures of the flowers, but will return in two weeks just for that. You have to see them. You really do.
Deception Pass (pictured above) was beautiful in its own way. The water was turquoise colored and nearly see through, believe it or not. The pass is known as "Deception" pass because it's such a narrow channel through Skagit Bay that George Vancouver (1792 expedition) thought Whidbey was a peninsula instead of an island. If you like camping, there are lots of campgrounds in this area. Most of it is state park. The beaches are worth a visit, and the fishing is good.
The vendors were awesome. All local folks. I love that. I love meeting the people my money is going to. I love supporting small businesses. I love to hear people's stories.
http://www.olympicspinningwheels.com
Here are some more photos of some of the wheels I saw at the spin-in. The website has more. Each one is unique because it is a collaboration between the artist and the client. I want one of these so bad.. . .
He could be justifiably braggy about his craftsmanship and product here, but I am telling you - I chatted with him for about 15 minutes and he is incredibly humble. It was a privilege to chat and get a chance to touch these wheels. They are good spinners, too. The set up looks similar to a pocket wheel, but the maidenhead doesn't look like it's quite as high, which I like. I like to see the fiber going on to the bobbin, at least a little bit. <sigh>.
Anyway - my attempts at beehives and cocoons were okay. It's a technique that requires practice, but that's fine. It was fun.
I heard from one of the shopkeepers that some whales had swum through in the morning. Sometimes they swim back in the evening, but I didn't get lucky enough to see any. Maybe next time.
- Kimberly