Here’s a “fun” fact for you – Seattle has had 9 days of sunshine since the first of October. Nine. Out of 178. And So. Much. Rain. Does that sound depressing to you? Because it has been for me. Now if you’ve read this blog at all in the past, you probably know I don’t like the heat. I’m much more suited to the Pacific Northwest maritime climate. I love snow days and am rarely bothered by the clouds and rain. But even this mossback is over it. Can we have a few days of sunshine, please?

One of those nine days of sunshine happened to fall on a Sunday a couple weekends ago. I was out working in the garden, soaking up the rays, when Adrienne texted me saying, “Want to go sit on the beach at Deception Pass?” Um, yes! I grabbed my camera, threw some food in a bag and off we went.

Ninety minutes later, we found ourselves sitting on West Beach, sun on our faces, wind whipping our hair. It’s chilly, but it’s warm enough.

Clearly we’re not the only ones missing the sun.

We walk down the beach a ways until we come across an empty driftwood fort. I used to make things like this as a kid all the time. It makes a great shelter to break the wind.

That food I grabbed before leaving? Moroccan chicken and rice. Maybe it’s a bit fancy for lunch on the beach, but it’s what I had. And it’s pretty tasty.

It’s such a delightful place to sit in the sun for a few hours, watching the world go by.

Happy dog chasing a stick in the water. He doesn’t care that it’s freezing.

Kites are a popular activity on the beaches around here. Might as well make use of all that wind for entertainment purposes.

After a couple hours, we drive over to Bowman Bay on the other side of the bridge.

The beach here is nice, but on the other side of that large island-looking thing in the photo above (it’s attached to the mainland) are some pretty spectacular views of the bridge. We mosey in that direction, checking out the bridge on our way.

The water is so green!

Giant kelp floating around the pylons.

Back on the trail, we spot a heron in a swamp, waiting for a tasty frog or fish.

I love theses trees. They are so iconic of the beach.

More people excited for the sun and ready for spring.

Another heron looking for a tasty snack.

The trail cuts through the trees. Moss growing on them is practically neon.

A sneak peak of what’s to come.

And there she is, in all her glory. Deception Pass Bridge.

There’s a lovely green meadow nearby, perfect for more enjoying the sun rays.

Crocus are blooming; spring is definitely on the way.

The Washington coast is so ruggedly beautiful. This area has several tidal waters converging making for some incredible diving, but it’s only for the most experienced. I hope one day I’m good enough to dive it.

And with that, it’s time to head back to the city. I’ve so enjoyed spending the day soaking up the sun, breathing the salty air. As I write this, the rain is pounding against the windows of my house. Fingers crossed we’ll have some more sunny days soon!