So we spent the first week here exploring all San Juan Island had to offer and by weekend number two we decided to head off island for a little variety. There are a number of nearby islands, accessible via the ferry. To walk on or take a bike is free from island to island so its a great way to get a change of scenery without actually having to go (and pay for fare) to the dreaded mainland! Orcas Island was the destination for our first weekend adventure. We decided to take the bikes over and just see what we could see within pedaling distance.Little did we know that Orcas happens to be the hilliest of all the islands! Immediately off the ferry we were hit with a few solid miles of uphill climbing. A fairly large island itself, we decided to head about 8 miles out one 
of the most scenic roadways to Deer Harbor. We both agreed that we could have been along any coastal route in Maine. Small winding roads along secluded harbors made for the perfect ride and we definitely earned our lunch as we approached the destination harbor. On the way back we took a break, scrambling down toward the water to read a bit and just relax in the sun. Relax we did until the sudden sound of gushing air brought us both to our feet. Sure enough, the back tire of my bicycle was suddenly flatter than
flat. With 5 miles still between us and the 430 ferry it was gong to be a long walk. Ten minutes in and realizing there was absolutely no way of making it in time, I flagged down a passing sherriff and asked very nicely for a ride back to town. Will was unfortunately stuck to negotiate the hills on the way back while I rode back seat with the friendly sherriff threatening to hand cuff me "just for fun" the whole way back! Needless to say...next time we will bring our car to Orcas. We hear Lopez Island is much flatter!
of the most scenic roadways to Deer Harbor. We both agreed that we could have been along any coastal route in Maine. Small winding roads along secluded harbors made for the perfect ride and we definitely earned our lunch as we approached the destination harbor. On the way back we took a break, scrambling down toward the water to read a bit and just relax in the sun. Relax we did until the sudden sound of gushing air brought us both to our feet. Sure enough, the back tire of my bicycle was suddenly flatter than
flat. With 5 miles still between us and the 430 ferry it was gong to be a long walk. Ten minutes in and realizing there was absolutely no way of making it in time, I flagged down a passing sherriff and asked very nicely for a ride back to town. Will was unfortunately stuck to negotiate the hills on the way back while I rode back seat with the friendly sherriff threatening to hand cuff me "just for fun" the whole way back! Needless to say...next time we will bring our car to Orcas. We hear Lopez Island is much flatter!Will started work this Monday, spending most of the week opening up shop, spring cleaning boats, vans, etc. I thought the summer just may have come to an abrupt end when day one he spent 7 hours weedwacking a yard that had not been touched since last winter. The week has progressively gotten better for him and today was his first day out on the water. His boss is a good guy, also very laid back and easy to work for. As the trend around here seems to be, producitivity expectations are minimal and once you get used to "island time" things just seem to move a little slower and easier. The other guide back early for the season is a veteran guide of 6 years who has been spending his winters in Alaska. He's been good about showing Will the ropes and is out on the water showing him how its done today. Things really start picking up for them the beginning of June, but so far its sounding like our days off with be the same! =)
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