Weekend on Whidbey

Some parts of my childhood were quite idyllic.  My grandparents lived on the beach on Bainbridge Island.  The 4th of July celebrations of my childhood consisted of the island parade, afternoons of beach combing and exploring Fort Ward, hand cranking ice cream on the back porch, and building bonfires to roast marshmallows while we set off fireworks.  I miss those days on Bainbridge Island with every fiber of my being.

Luckily, I married into a family that has a monthly get together, and each summer one of those gathering takes place on the beach on Whidbey Island (my sister-in-law's husband's parents are gracious enough to open their home to our large brood).  I look forward to it every year as a chance to share something special with my children that I had as a child, a simpler version of summer.

Linus was excited for a day of adventure.

"I'm a tourist!"

 Knowing ferry traffic would be bad, Dave and I decided to drive all the way up to Deception Pass and have an adventure at Fort Casey before driving down to the south island for the gathering.  I always forget how beautiful Deception Pass is and am now making plans to take a camping trip there.

Linus liked the idea of the Fort Casey--guns, soldiers, armies, and battles.  I think he was a little disappointed that everything wasn't in working order.  I made sure to bring a headlamp to explore the long dark hallways and rooms.

Park Ranger Linus giving us a guided tour.

Lots of nooks and crannies for crawling into

We spent the afternoon on south Whidbey with the family.  By the time I got out of the car and into the house, Linus was already headed down to the beach to explore low tide.  Eileen and I hung out, watched swarms of blue herons, and relaxed in the hammock.

beachwear

Eileen adores her cousin Avery.  I think the feeling is mutual.

Ice cream on a hot sunny day.

We all swam at the pool. Eileen even swam with water wings unassisted! She was very proud of herself.  I was proud of myself for actually getting in the pool. After swimming, the men took the kids out rafting.  Linus told everyone, "My mom pukes on boats."  It's true, but needless to say, I wasn't invited.

On the way home that night I asked Linus what his favorite part of the day was and he said there were too many.  I agree.  My heart feels so much lighter having spent just an afternoon at the beach house.  I could have stared out at the water for hours.  Maybe someday we'll have our own family place on the Puget Sound.  Nothing big or fancy, it just needs to be right on the water with room to build a bonfire and set off fireworks. In the meantime, I remain grateful for the one special weekend every summer on Whidbey Island and am already looking forward to next year.