San Juan Island: An Extended Stay

A week ago today, Henry left home for an adventure. He was invited to go on vacation with his good friend, Merrick, and Merrick's family. We knew he'd have a great time. We knew that he would love being with Merrick, being on an island, biking, swimming, hiking, running, fishing, laughing. But he'd never been away from us for more than just an overnight at a friend's house. This trip involved a ferry ride, seven days, and seven nights away from home. Away from Dan, Alice, and me. We knew he'd have a great time, we knew that we would miss him terribly, and we just couldn't say no to such an incredibly fun opportunity.

Jill, Madi, Rich, Henry, Merrick, and Daisy (the Black Lab) caught the evening ferry over to San Juan Island. They barely made it, just before the ferry service was canceled due to thick fog.

These two have been friends since we very first moved to Washington, six years ago.

The purpose of the trip was for Merrick's family to visit his Grandma Barbara at her home on San Juan Island. From all accounts, she owns a lovely home with acres of land on the beautiful island. A huge pond/lake and a forested area with trails for biking provide endless entertainment for two young boys.

The morning after they arrived graced them with sunshine - just right for lots of time in the pond. Jill told me that Henry was in the pedal boat for almost three hours that first day - he gave rides to anyone and everyone who was willing to go with him, including the dog.

Some mornings started off with fog. Perfect for bike rides and haystack climbing.

He made it!

Kings of the Mountain.

Henry took part in a little chicken wrangling.

More time in the pond.

And fishing! One of the highlights of the trip. On his first day, Henry caught eight fish. He was thrilled! The lake is stocked with some good sized trout and Henry and Merrick had fun with catch and release.

Henry with Madi (Merrick's sister and Henry and Alice's very first babysitter!), Merrick, and Grandma Barbara.

They enjoyed some bowling in town.

And milkshakes. What's a vacation on an island without a milkshake?

Jill took the boys to the art museum where they explored some cool statues/sculptures.

They also visited a lavender farm. So pretty.

I love that sweet, intense smell of lavender.

Merrick's Uncle Jay taught the boys the fine art of wrist rocket (aka, sling shot) shooting.

More time in the pedal boats and rafts.

Happy boy!

Aunt Sue, Madi, Jill, Grandma Barbara, Merrick, Uncle Jay, and Henry. Sounds like they had a great week.

Time to say goodbye.

Uncle Jay came to the ferry to say goodbye. "Hang loose" til next year!

Two tired boys on the ferry ride home.

Henry arrived home happy, tired, and filled with stories of his great week with Merrick's family. He informed us that when he grows up, he's buying a house on San Juan Island and will live there forever.

We're so thankful he had this very cool opportunity to enjoy the island life with his friend. Thank you to Jill, Rich, Madi, Barbara, Jay, and Sue for welcoming Henry into their family vacation and providing him with so many unforgettable experiences. Oh! And thanks to Jill and Madi for indulging my photo obsession and taking lots of photos for me!