Well, we got on the ferry and went to Orcas Island. The ferry was a huge double decker car carring type. As we left the dock we entered into the San Juan Islands, which are many small islands which jet out of the calm waters of the straits of Juan De Fuca.

We arrive at Orcas Islands, named after whales which frolic in the protected bays. As we leave the ferry we start climbing. Who said this island is flat? We climb some more. Actually we will climb all the way to Moran State Park which is about 13 miles. But it is my first day touring and I am strong. We ride up the hills, past the blackberry briar bushes (which I keep on having to stop and eat)and down the scenic road. Incredible beautiful wooded forest with a few open pastures growing the organic fruits and vegtables. So many variations of green vegiatation and trees bath my artistic eyes with pleasure.

We stop and in town and buy groceries and a six pack of beer. And since this my first day and I am stong, I load it on my bike which adds 10 pounds or so to my already loaded bike. I sure like a cold beer after a good solid ride. We continue our upward journey to Washington Moran State Park.

We set up camp in the primitive camp area at a dilapidated Adirondak shelter. We where not suppose to set our tent up inside but since it is rainy we take a chance on staying out of the rain. It leaks though the roof as moss on the roof is not approved roofing material. The rain final stops and we go for a hike with our newest friends,David and Rob, two brothers who are also biking and staying the campsite.

What a wonderful stroll through rain forested paridise!

Moss hungs and clings to any and all things. Even the stone walls on the side of the road are not reconginizable because they have been plastered with this wonderful green growth of rich color and texture. I can not keep my hands off the trees, the rocks, the ferns. I manage to wander off taking photos and lose my way. When I become aware I wonder back to my last known location and wait for Randy and our two new friends, David and Rob. I am so glad to be here experiencing the great Northwest.

Today: On to Friday Harbor on San Juan Island, hopefully to see the beautiful sunset looking west toward Vancouver Island, just 4-5 miles away.

-Nancy