Category Archives: Community

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Backyard Hens …

Backyard Chickens

Posted by Teri

Backyard Hens

I have wanted my own flock for some time now. Jay kept saying he does not want to get into the chicken business (he knows who will end up tending MY chickens, and his name starts with J!). Thank goodness for grown sons. My eldest, Eric, homesteads at the south end of our 4 acres and shares my desire to feed myself through farming. Before I knew it a coop went up and the word was out that we were looking for chickens. It is amazing what this island community will provide, you just have to ask. Great friends on Lopez had an extra hen, a Golden Laced Wyandotte, she’s a beauty!. Within 5 days of coop construction, Eric had collected 5 hens with more promised as they hatched. We are in the egg business. I have a feeling, if this pace keeps up, I will be blogging egg recipes and asking for your favorite way to prepare eggs! 

One of my favorite magazines, Organic Gardening, had a section on chickens (June/July 2010) naming pros and cons and discussing best backyard breeds, www.orgaincgardening.com.

Now I am finding chicken information everywhere. Island Hardware www.islandhardware.com  had a stack of 2012 WSDA Calendars- Birds of Washington, chock full of tips, dos and don’ts for a healthy flock. The WSU Avian Health & Food Safety Laboratory will conduct diagnostic testing for backyard poultry that die. Call 1-800-606-3056 for information.  The Avian Health Program also offers two free online training courses: Avian Disease Prevention Training Course and Poultry 101 Training Course. http://agr.wa.gov/FoodAnimal/AvianHealth/AvianCertificationTraining.aspx

Looking to enjoy the simple life on beautiful Orcas Island? Contact T Williams Realty – we’ll help you find your way home.

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by | February 27, 2012 · 4:59 pm
by | February 18, 2012 · 12:27 pm

Lunch at Goat Leap Treehouse

Posted by Sandi

Susan Scott at her treehouse on Orcas Island

Susan and friends

For Valentine’s Day my friend Susan treated me to lunch at her treehouse on the east side of Orcas Island. Susan is no ordinary person, nor does she serve an ordinary lunch (green curry something-or-other and a fresh mango salad), so why would she have anything other than an extraordinary house?

When you arrive at Goat Leap and cross the bridge to her treehouse, you’re transported to a magical, playful world: An artful assemblage of funky materials – galvanized metal, homosote walls, reclaimed finds – wide plank flooring, old doors, rustic cabinet fronts, amidst bark-on timbers, cozy furnishings and colorful art. A kaleidoscope of fun, anchored in good design. Kudos to the architect – Mira Jean Steinbrecher, Susan and her design friends (including Pam at Red Ticking) for pulling it all together.

Although the treehouse has been featured in a magazine, this is not a pretentious showplace. Rather it’s a kick your shoes off, uncork another bottle and enjoy lap dances from her three pooches – Hamish, Tallulah and Dobby. It’s one of those places where everything is just so, and nothing is. A space that soothes the soul and makes your heart sing. Enjoy the tour, and thank you Susan! [slideshow]

Looking to enjoy the simple life on beautiful Orcas Island?
Contact T Williams Realty  – we’ll help you find your way home.

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by | February 6, 2012 · 1:55 pm

Kudos to our Power Company

Posted by Teri

Thank you OPALCO for always being there. Rain, sleet or snow our linemen are out making sure we stay safe, warm and see the light!

Old OPALCO truck door on Orcas Island

Old OPALCO truck door on Orcas Island

Outages here in the islands are not always because we live on an “island” but can be caused by mainland accidents or downed trees in areas that feed the underwater cables that are the power source for the islands.

Snow storms are not common but can also cause an outage. January’s ice and snow storm had the lower mainland in pretty bad shape with 100,000 plus residences facing outages, leaving people stranded in the cold without heat. Orcas saw two power outages that were relatively easy and quick to fix. Our lineman crew is the best, comprised of local boys who have been here most of their lives. They are experienced in being the person sitting in the dark wondering what caused the lights to go out, and asking “should we be cranking up the generator”? And they know most of these community members left in the dark!!  These guys have back up from OPALCO office crew who are working just as hard making sure the crew has hot coffee and food should the weather remain a hazard and it look like it will be an all night date.

Orcas Island Snow Fall 2012

Orcas Island Snow Fall 2012

Personally, I look forward to outages. I get an opportunity to just sit in front of the fire with a good book, put a pot of soup on the wood stove, find the candles and hunker down.   This time, it was the snow that helped put me in the rocking chair instead of a power outage. Islanders are just equipped and look forward to anything Mother Nature throws at us.

Check out OPALCO website http://www.opalco.com   to learn more about our members owned co-op and learn about the many programs that benefit its members.

Looking to enjoy the simple life on beautiful Orcas Island?
Contact T Williams Realty – we’ll help you find your way home.

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by | January 21, 2012 · 12:18 pm

Snow Days in the San Juans

Posted by Sandi

Well it doesn’t happen very often, but when it does, it’s wonderful.

The already relaxed winter pace stops abruptly in its snow-tracks, leaving us to cozy by our woodstoves, sip a steamy drink, read a coveted book, check on neighbors and marvel at the scene around us. The evergreen island you thought couldn’t possibly get more beautiful dons her white lace gown and simply takes your breath away. She doesn’t overstay her welcome – just long enough to shake up your routine in a good way, making time for introspection and new perspectives on the natural world. I love it.

I wanted to take photos around the island this week, but with the exception of a few shots on Sunday before “the storm,” it wasn’t meant to be. The steep road in our neighborhood was relegated to makeshift sleds, and my exploration limited to foot travel.  If you have some pics you’d like to share, please post them!

[slideshow]

Looking to enjoy the simple life on beautiful Orcas Island?
Contact T Williams Realty  – we’ll help you find your way home.

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by | December 12, 2011 · 3:22 pm

Festive Dining at the Luxurious Rosario Mansion

Posted by Sandi

This past Friday, after our holiday “Shop the Rock” excursion in Eastsound, Bob and I decided to have dinner at the Rosario’s Moran Mansion. We hadn’t done this in years, a consequence of lazily living on the opposite end of the island. Wow, am I glad we did!

Rosario Resort's Moran Mansion at Night

Arriving at the mansion you're greeted by the "Festival of Trees" decorated by local non-profits as a fundraising event.

Rosario was just kicking off its first-ever “Festival of Trees.” Each of seven trees were decorated by a local non-profit — Friends of Moran, The Funhouse, Kaleidoscope, OPAL Community Land Trust, Orcas Island Choral Society, Orcas Island Education Foundation, and Orcas Island Fire & Rescue. By purchasing raffle tickets for $1, you can give to your favorite non-profit by voting for their tree. 

Christmas Tree at Moran Mansion decorated by kids at the Funhouse on Orcas Island

It was hard not to give all our tickets to The Funhouse tree -- each colorful ornament was handmade by a child.

At the end of December, all voting tickets will be entered in a raffle to win round-trip tickets for two to Seattle on Kenmore Air with hotel, dinner for two in The Mansion Restaurant and a two-month spa pass!! Hmmm…. somehow I’m feeling extra “charitable” this evening.

On top of the cozy ambience of the festive historic mansion, our dinner was absolutely superb. I chose the Filet Mignon served with Roasted Yukon Gold Potatoes and Carrot Puree. Even though I ordered it medium well (I know, I can hear the gasps), it still cut easily with a butter knife. I combined my plate with Bob’s melt-in-your-mouth Wild King Salmon and we both enjoyed a delightful surf and turf.

Living Room at Moran Mansion, Rosario Resort - Orcas Island

The Living Room is my favorite place in the Mansion. Next time I will ask to take our dessert by the fireplace, like this couple did.

For dessert we shared a chocolate souffl’ee with vanilla bean ice cream and salted caramel sauce. This alone would be worth driving an hour for. Pure ecstasy.

After dinner we leisurely toured the upstairs mansion on our own, marveling at the exquisite construction and trying to imagine what it would’ve been like to live here – a luxuriously large yet intimate space, warmed by mahogany throughout and a fireplace in every room, and a drop-dead gorgeous view down the sound. No wonder Robert Moran outlived his life expectancy by more than 30 years after moving here. I feel so thankful that this historic gem has been preserved and re-opened for us to enjoy. We will definitely be coming back!

 

Looking to enjoy the simple life on beautiful Orcas Island?
Contact T Williams Realty  – we’ll help you find your way home.

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by | November 10, 2011 · 11:51 pm

Dining at Orcas Hotel – A Savory Step Back in Time

Posted by Sandi

Orcas Hotel - Orcas Island WA

Greeting you with all her glory

I chose to celebrate my birthday last week with a quiet dinner at the Orcas Hotel, the beautiful turn-of-the-century landmark you see when you arrive at the ferry landing. Although I frequent the Cafe for breakfast during ferry waits, I hadn’t been to the restaurant in several years.

Historic photo of Orcas Hotel, Orcas Island WA

Former owners of Orcas Hotel

I love her grand architecture, history, and tended grounds. Plus  Octavia’s Bistro / bar serves just the right blend of laid-back elegance. On Friday nights in the summer it’s hopping with live music and the menu turns casual. But on this off-season Wednesday night in November, the place is packed with locals just looking for a good meal. (Hint: Wednesday is Prime Rib night and reservations are recommended.)

Salmon dinner at Orcas Hotel, Orcas Island WA

Grilled salmon served with steamed rice, grilled asparagus and basil essence. Yum.

The Prime Rib Special includes Harris Ranch grass-fed all natural beef, tossed salad, baked potato, asparagus and yorkshire pudding. 12-oz cut for $28 or 8-oz for $22. Hmmm… A great deal but prime rib’s not my thing – I ordered the salmon and it was divine.

Dessert at the Orcas Hotel, Orcas Island WA

Who wants boring birthday cake when you can have a warm rasberry tart with vanilla ice cream?

If you really want to treat yourself, reserve one of the 12 boutique rooms to retreat to after dinner. They’re furnished with handmade quilts, antiques, books and island art, and two of the suites have balconies and Jacuzzi tubs for two. Rates range from $89 to $218 depending on time of year and room selected. In the morning meander down to the cafe for your complimentary breakfast in the cafe bakery, or enjoy a full breakfast in Octavia’s. Check for specials; this month they’re offering dinner for two when you stay in one of the jacuzzi suites.

It’s hard to believe this storybook hotel was once condemned and slated to be destroyed to make way for ferry parking. A group of islanders got together to purchase it, and eventually it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and fully renovated. Like many island stories, this one has a happy ending — just the kind I like! 🙂

Looking to enjoy the simple life on beautiful Orcas Island?
Contact T Williams Realty  – we’ll help you find your way home.

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by | October 29, 2011 · 7:54 pm

I Love Halloween!

Halloween on Orcas Island

The only day fashion matters on Orcas Island

Posted by Teri

I love Halloween on Orcas. After all the activity that takes place during the summer, Halloween reminds us we don’t have to wait for the holidays to celebrate and get dressed up!!

Halloween hayride in Eastsound, sponsored by Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce

Halloween hayride in Eastsound, sponsored by the Chamber

In true Orcas style, the community pulls together a successful event in Eastsound each year. Starting mid-afternoon, village businesses pass out treats to costumed kids of all sizes and styles.It might seem early in the day for goblins and ghouls, but it gives us empty-nesters a chance to gaze out the office window and remember when we too paraded down the sidewalks with tiny tots in tow.

Caramel apples for Orcas Historical Museum

Caramel apple treats for Orcas Hysterical Museum

This year the Orcas Historical Museum is doing something different: a re-enactment of the story of the Olga Bear, circa 1910. Orcas Center is lending costumes and community members will learn a few lines and become characters for one afternoon. Some of us are already characters!

Jay and I volunteered to make caramel apples for the museum event. I haven’t done this since my kids were young. I love caramel apples. We’ll see how many make it to the museum. ;0

Happy Halloween everyone!

Looking to enjoy the simple life on beautiful Orcas Island?
Contact T Williams Realty  – we’ll help you find your way home.

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by | October 8, 2011 · 8:10 pm

Slideshow of Fall Color on Orcas Island

Posted by Sandi

Coming from Florida where it’s virtually one season year-round, I’m very attuned to (and appreciative of) the change of seasons here on Orcas. Spring and summer are wonderful, but Fall is my favorite.

In late September the pace slows and year-round residents reconnect after a busy summer. Days remain mild and light rains resurrect the mosses and replenish our aquifer. But I have to admit, it’s the eye candy that delights me most!

Here are a few of my favorite scenes (click on pictures to enlarge.) If you have any pics you’d like to share, I’d love to see them!

Looking to enjoy the simple life on beautiful Orcas Island?
Contact T Williams Realty  – we’ll help you find your way home.

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by | August 27, 2011 · 7:05 pm

Letter to Grandma

Posted by Teri

Dear Grandma,

I know what unconditional love feels like because you gave so much of yourself to me.

I could count on the flowers in the yard, the vegetables in the garden, kitties in the basement, hay in the barn, pie in the oven and swimming in the neighbor’s pond after the day’s chores.

You took me blackberry picking. Told me stories about my grandpa and how he logged the land and how these spots were the best for berry growing. I put every berry in my coffee can so I would have a full can by the time your can was full. You taught me to bang my cans together to scare away the bears. I was never afraid because I was with my grandma. 

There was always pie. I love pie. Today, when I make pies I think of you for many reasons. You shared memories, one being that syrup came in a round glass container, we now use as a pie dough roller. I have several and cannot pass one up at a second hand store. You gave me your pie plates so I could make pie and you shared your secret to making the best cherry pie (almond extract).

It was important to you to hold my babies and give me fearless advice on being a mother.

You taught me that making a crab salad was an art and that the right kind of lettuce mattered. Iceberg lettuce, boiled eggs, olives, celery, ripe tomatoes and Thousand Island dressing. I cannot eat crab salad without thinking of you.

You took me clam digging as a young girl. We slept in the back of the truck and cleaned clams for days.  I took you back to Ocean Shores not long ago and we feasted on clams and salmon. You won $400 in the casino that now sits along our clam digging beach, no campground in sight, but, oh the memories we dreamed about together that weekend.

You showed me the strength that generations of woman embodied before me and that I was part of something that mattered.

Thank you Grandma for all you have given me. Most importantly allowing me to see myself through your eyes. 

Lenora Alice Whitmore Carlson Larson

My Grandma

Lenora Alice Whitmore Carlson Larson
January 29, 1916 – August 19, 2011

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by | August 1, 2011 · 8:13 pm

Island Watercolors

Posted by Teri

Indian Island watercolor by Debi Madan, Orcas Island WAMy post on Indian Island  the other day reminded me of a notecard I have with a watercolor painted by my good friend Debi Madan. I’ve always admired her talent, and earlier this year she agreed to give me lessons! On Fridays we get together at various inspirational locations around Orcas – Crescent Beach, Crow Valley, my garden – and as she shows me the technical aspect of painting, I try to unleash my creative side. Maybe someday I’ll feel confident enough to post one of my creations. 🙂 Until then, look for more of Debi’s inspiring art in future posts!

Looking to enjoy the simple life on beautiful Orcas Island?
Contact T Williams Realty  – we’ll help you find your way home.

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