September 3

After an evening of light rain, we arrived yesterday in bright sunshine at Roche Harbor Resort. We haven’t been here for a year or two, and it’s always nice to feel pampered. The dock crew even hooked up our power cord this time. I always feel like the poor relations when we come here, though. The conspicuous consumption here, with all the 60+-foot yachts with their private chefs, etc., and all the folks walking around in their yachting attire (while I’m in my ratty sweatshirt with weird hair) sometimes makes me feel uncomfortable. That said, I’m going to enjoy this couple of days while I’m here….we’ll hit the restaurant, go for coffee and those wonderful fresh-made donuts at 7:00am, and I’ll no doubt spend a little cash in the gift shop. Hey, somebody has to support the economy here on San Juan Island!

We had a lot of rain last night, giving us the opportunity to find a new leak in the hatch over our bed. One more thing that must be fixed before we take off for parts East. Fortunately, Bob has some instant sealant that can be used in damp weather, so we’ll get it sealed up before we leave.

Tomorrow we’re off to Deer Harbor on Orcas Island, where Stacy is working for a few weeks. Douglas will be coming up for the weekend, so we’ll get to visit with them for a couple of days. Steppe and Mary Williford will try and join us there. We’re hoping to find a spot to anchor and avoid the resort’s expensive moorage.

While we were coming from Lopez Island, passing Blakely Island, battling through the excessive wake of a 50-foot Bayliner who passed by going the usual 30 knots,(and, to quote Steppe, “Why is it ALWAYS a Bayliner?”) we realized that we often take this place for granted. There simply aren’t many places like the Northwest. (Maybe Maine, but I’m going to find that out for myself soon.)

I wanted to post pictures of Roche, but we forgot the disc with the drivers for the camera, so the pictures will have to wait for the next portion of this trip!