Lavender Ladies

Lavender Ladies, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

The lavender season is extremely late this year and although the annual pilgrimage to Sequim was late, it still preceded the height of the bloom. After picking up Marika from the airport and her Florida internship, the Lynden crowd came to Southworth to join Esther for the weekend. I escaped to Lynden and left Calvin to fend for himself amongst the females. The ladies had a wonderful day in Sequim, taking pictures, picking lavender and strolling the farms. Ada insisted on bare feet and stole the photogenic show. While the ladies were lavendering, Bjorn and I installed their new dishwasher and sailed our dinghies on the light breezes of Wiser Lake. Much to my chagrin, Bjorn's boat sailed circles around my boat. However, mine is more stable and handles the strong winds better.

31 years of Bulthuis service

Good bye Datsun, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

I felt somewhat like a traitor today as I signed away the title to the Datsun 200sx. My father bought this car new in 1980 and it was the envy of all the students at the high school where he taught. When Dad went on to bigger and better several years later, it passed to my nephew in Olympia and then in time to two nieces. My brother-in-law Jack kept it in top working condition, even having the engine rebuilt by the mechanic students at the Shelton prison. Seven years ago Jack gave the car to Markus shortly after he got his license. Then it passed to Calvin. I suppose that I could have continued to repair it, but for two months of use each year and an eye sore to the neighbor, I decided it was time to let it go. At 247,000 miles, I am sure that it still has some life. That's less than our 98 Sienna with 251,000.

Trail of the Coeur d'alenes

Trail of the Coeur d'alenes, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

We just returned from a three day getaway exploring some of the North Idaho bicycle trails. We spent two days on the Trail of the Coeur d'alenes. The trail begins up on the palouse, descends to the lake, then meanders along several lakes and the Coeur d'alenes River up to the town of Mulan near the Montana border (72 miles). Our time was spent on the lower portion from Plummer to Cataldo. Our longest day was 54 miles from Harrison to Cataldo and back. There is only one town on this lower portion, the lakeside hamlet of Harrison. It became our launch site and destination for daily rides. The trail is built on an old rail grade so it is relatively flat. We enjoyed the beautiful scenery of lakes, rivers, mountains and fields as we pedaled side by side talking and listening to the abundance of birds and occasional river traffic. The temperature was a very comfortable 80 degrees for most of the time. Our lodging for the two nights was a bed and breakfast in St. Maries. It was an unique experience in which we interacted significantly with the host family and other guests. It wasn't the most private of accommodations, but it sure gave us a strong feel for the local culture. Our last day was spent in and around Coeur d'alene, exploring the bustling town and checking out the east end of the Centennial bike trail (with sore bottoms).

A Family Fourth

BBQ on the fourth, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

This past weekend we had the chance to spend some great time with family. On Sunday, the Bulthuis clan, including my siblings and their children converged on a downtown Seattle condo for Brian Bulthuis' fiance Kate's bridal shower. Brian and Kate live in New York, but came out for the weekend. Kate's sister owns a spectacular condo on 2nd Ave. between Pine and Pike. The ladies stayed at the condo on the 38th floor overlooking the city while the men walked down to Safeco Field to watch a Mariner game. After the game we spent a couple of hours back at the condo visiting and enjoying the view. Then on the Fourth, Ellen, Jenny, Ada, Ruby, Markus and Steph joined us in Southworth for a great day. We enjoyed the great weather and went to Harborside Park and watched Ada enjoy the fountains. Ada and Papa took a couple walks to the beach and the 'gummywormer store' All have gone home and it is painting weather in Southworth.

Home for the summer

Calvin returns home for the summer, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

I am almost a week late in posting something about Calvin's return, but in the interest of my blog providing a journal of our doings, I better record the event. Calvin returned last Saturday. Josh and Alicia joined us, as well as Camille who drove up from Vancouver, WA to welcome Calvin. He spent a lot of time with friends on the weekend before we put him to work Monday morning on pressure washing and painting prep on the rental. True to form, Calvin has his summer planned out already. It is nice to have him home for a couple of months before he goes back to Japan for ten months. We will try to make the most of our times together. Esther finished the last bit of work obligations and is off until the latter part of August. We look forward to a lot of family time this coming weekend.

Another boat - you've got to be kidding!

Montgomery Dinghy, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

It seems that I had just recently rid myself of all unwanted boats and I was going to be content with my Montgomery 17. Actually there are many reasons for my recent purchase. I have often wanted a rowboat for those calm evenings when the water beckons, but there is no wind. I would also like a little sailing dinghy for winter sails or distant lakes. In addition, when cruising with my M17, it would be nice to tow a dinghy. I have been keeping my eye open for a reasonably priced Minto dinghy which is rich in local history. Last week I came across this dinghy for sale in Port Townsend. It was made by Montgomery just like my 'big' boat and was also designed by the same legendary designer, Lyle Hess. I had never seen one of these available, so I had to at least check it out. A deal was negotiated, and I find myself in possession of another classic Monty. I am anxious to test it out.

back on the hook for another season

back on the hook for another season, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

My Montgomery 17 is back on her summer mooring, ready for play at her captain's call. It is an annual milestone for me to get her on the mooring -- first comes the sprucing her up with wax, varnish and paint -- then making sure all rigging and gear are functioning and on board -- followed by remaking the mooring with the necessary new chain, swivels and shackles. The final day involves dropping the mooring, using canoe and rubber raft; then off to the launch to rig the boat and drop her in the water. The weekend weather was cooperative and I was able to get her in the water on Saturday and then do some sailing with Tim on Sunday. Another sailing season has begun!

Sri Lanka meets Southworth

Rubesh's in Southworth, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

Yesterday we had the opportunity to meet Stephanie's parents who live in Sri Lanka. They are here in the Northwest for a couple of weeks to celebrate Stephanie's graduation from SPU. We had heard lots about them from Stephanie, so it was great to meet them in person. Ted and Renate are missionaries in Sri Lanka where they are involved in leadership training of local pastors. While enjoying a delicious salmon dinner from Esther, we soaked up story after story of elephants and monsoons. It was a great evening and we are thankful for the opportunity to visit. Today's somewhat uneventful birthday was placated by the enjoyment of yesterday.

A laid back Memorial weekend

Bremerton Harborside Park, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

After a busy Spring, we were ready for a quiet weekend in Southworth. Esther and I were able to get some much needed yard work accomplished and I pulled the boat out of storage and tinkered with it some. On Sunday night Mike and Marti came down for a visit on their way to pick up Marika from Canyonview in Oregon. Monday afternoon we went to Bremerton waterfront area and took a long walk. We ate outside at the new Bremerton Bar and Grill which we enjoyed. We were fortunate to have a dry Memorial weekend this year.

Dodging the bullet

headlands of Shi Shi Beach, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

As I drove to the coast through the steady rain early Saturday, I resigned myself to an inevitable wet camping experience with our fifth graders. We have been fortunate over the last ten or so years of Neah Bay trips to only have one or two wet experiences, and they were not fun. However, my fears were unwarranted as we evaded the rain once again and had a great trip to Shi Shi Beach and an evening camping at Makah Bay. My pessimism once again returned at 5 am Sunday as rain pelted the tent. But we dodged the bullet as it stopped raining and we enjoyed a great breakfast and hike to Cape Flattery. The students were great and the parents a great help. Another successful Neah Bay trip for the books.

MSP

MSP 2011, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

Another year of MSP testing was completed today. This year was marked by the great pencil fiasco. On the first day of testing, all students in the school were given special pencils for the tests. Somewhere in the ordering process #2 1/2 pencils were shipped to the school and no one caught it until the students had started testing. Some of my students commented, but I figured that the testing coordinator would not have given them out if they weren't kosher. Anyway, once the mistake was discovered, it was school wide panic. Calls were made to the state testing office and we were told to have the students erase their answers and remark them with #2 pencils. District personnel scurried to the building, combing over each test to make sure the correct pencil lead was used on every question. We hope that the incident does not invalidate the tests. Most likely not, but it made the first day exciting to say the least. I have high hopes for our fifth graders who took math, reading and science tests. My collaborative 5th grade teaching buddies put meal wagers on whose class will have a higher percent of passage. It's a bit of a can't lose because winner buys the meal; but I hope I'm buying!

Ready for new tenants

ready for new tenants, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

The last couple of months have been consumed with fixing up our former residence for new renters. Seven years of negligent renters and pets left the place in sad shape. We totally resurfaced the inside of the house. All walls and ceilings were painted. All sills, trim, wood floors, baseboards and some cabinets were refinished. All the carpet and vinyl was replaced. It feels like a new house and looks inviting to move back into. Needless to say, all spare time not at work was spent working on the house. It is finally complete! The new renter moved in today with the help of her church small group. We are excited to have Tracey Robinson and her children, Ryan and Emily in our house. Tracey comes with several strong recommendations from friends that we trust. We are optimistic that it will be a good situation. The only thing that made it easy to work at the rental and miss out on spring boat preparations was the lousy weather that we have had the past two months. Now that I can enjoy it, I hope the weather finally turns.!

Discovery Park - Mother's Day

Discovery Park - Mother's Day, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

After working hard at the rental house on Friday and Saturday, Esther and I needed a break from Southworth for Mother's Day. We went over to Seattle and picked up Markus and Steph. We ate at an Indian restaurant in Ballard and then went on a hike at Discovery Park. The weather was just nice enough for a walk along the top of Magnolia Bluff and to the lighthouse below. We ended the afternoon at a Starbucks in Magnolia. Markus begins a new job this week downtown at a law firm transcribing claims. Steph is looking forward to graduation next month and seeing her parents.

Birthdays and Easter

Ada egg hunting, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

Saturday's sunshine greeted the birthday celebrations of mom and Ada. Combined, their ages are 90, Ada 2 and mom 88. We celebrated with Mom at the Courtyard. Balloons were definitely a hit with the young and old alike. Mom really enjoyed batting the balloon back and forth. My sister Ellen was up for spring break so all of Mom's children were there as well as several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Ada's party was later in the afternoon and featured the color blue and pizza. Both sets of grandparents and various friends joined the Greenwood Gang to help celebrate. The next day was Easter and after a worship service at Oikos and a big dinner, Ada enjoyed her first egg hunt. She had a lot of help both finding the eggs and eating the treats.

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

We couldn't pass our spring break without a little getaway, so Friday morning we headed for the Oregon Coast. We were fortunate to have great weather on Friday and Saturday. We always take the 'backroad' to the Oregon Coast, avoiding I-5. For years we made it a point to make a meal stop in South Bend at the Boondocks Cafe where Esther would get her beloved hang town fry. Unfortunately, the place shut down last year, so we are searching for another spot. On the recommendation of friends, we tried the Rusty Tractor in Elma. It was OK if you're into Yak burgers, but I think we'll keep looking. Friday we spent the afternoon in 'sunny Seaside' (at least one day of sun). We soaked in as much sun as we could, walking the beach, promenade and streets. Since the building of the Trendwest resort, the town has really been transformed in the last ten years. The streets were filled with vacationing Washingtonians. Friday night was the thrifty night - dinner at Mo's and a stiff bed at Motel 6. Saturday was Cannon Beach day with an excursion to the small village of Manzanita. The clouds started rolling in during the afternoon, but the rain held off until dark. We enjoyed our room at the Waves Motel in town, walking to beach, shops and a dinner at the new LumberYard Grille. The patter of rain woke us up Sunday morning with the cold reality of life in the northwest and the end of another spring break.

Paint Party

the paint crew, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

This year we are spending our Spring break a little different from our usual travel frenzy. A couple of factors played into this break from tradition. One factor is that our rental home is vacant and in need of a make over. The other is that Calvin is home from Japan for part of the week. With much reluctance, we will put him on the airplane back to Tokyo until late June. His final term of the year starts next week and he does not want to interrupt his course of study. It was a relief to have him home for two weeks. We trust he will be safe. He was able to join the paint party with Markus, Kay and Marti who came down to Southworth to help for a couple of days. We were able to paint the entire inside of the house (all ceilings and walls) in just a few days. A big thanks to Kay and Marti for their help. The rest of the break will see more work at the rental and maybe a couple of days to get away.

Home for now

Calvin home from Japan enjoying family and friends, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

After much emotional turmoil and anxiety, we decided to fly Calvin home from Japan while things stabilize after the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear radiation. Calvin was not anxious to leave his friends and adopted country, but we pulled the parent trump card. His trip went smoothly even though we insisted that he leave for the Tokyo airport 24 hours early, necessitating a night on the airport's tile floor. Oh for the bones of a 20 year old! He arrived Saturday morning to a rare sunny day. The entire family, as well as friends made his first 24 hours in the US exhausting. This week, Calvin is enjoying time with friends who are on college break, as well as visiting friends at Trinity and family in Lynden. He has a scheduled flight to return to Tokyo on April 6 for his next term, but that is contingent on conditions and his parent's comfort level. We are relieved that he is safe for now, but still very anxious for the people of Japan and Calvin's plans.

Safe Sons

Bitchu Matsuyama castle a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

The last couple of days have been somewhat anxious for us with the disasters in Japan. We are thankful that our boys are safe, but have sorrow for the many that are suffering. Calvin has an extended Spring Break (six weeks), so Markus decided to take a two week visit to Japan this month. Calvin planned a Bulthuis style tour of southern Japan, complete with youth hostels and internet cafes; little knowing how providential that would become. They visited Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka among other things. They were in Hiroshima when the earthquake hit and didn't even find out about it until several hours later. Their train trip back to Tokyo was blocked and they had to take a bullet train to avoid a two day delay. Safe back at the university, they will spend a couple of laid back days before Markus flies back home on Tuesday. For more details of the trip see the link to Markus' blog on the right.

Coeur d'Alene with Dan and Judy Mulder

Coeur d'Alene with Dan and Judy Mulder
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

This weekend we met up with long time friends, Dan and Judy Mulder from Townsend, Montana. We met in Post Falls, ID for a couple of nights. It was great catching up with each other's lives. We were particularly interested in their recent trip to China where they witnessed the wedding of daughter Emily and David. They flew to the northeast corner of the country to be with David's family who are Uyghur, an ethnic minority speaking a Turkish dialect. It was quite an adventure for them as one can well imagine. We were able to watch a video of the wedding which included a Mulder rendition of Uyghur dancing! Our constant conversation took many settings as we soaked up the sun on walks from Coeur d'Alene to Riverside Park in Spokane. It was a great weekend of renewing friendship and anticipating the next phase of our lives.

Ruby Jean Bulthuis

Ruby Jean Bulthuis 2-2-11
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

I think that I have been waiting for this monumental event to post a blog entry. She has arrived: Granddaughter #2, Ruby Jean Bulthuis. Early Wednesday morning (2:00) Jenny awoke to four minute contractions. She and Bjorn rushed to the hospital, leaving Ada under the care of Guncle John. Ruby made her entry at 4:38 am, 7 lbs. 9 ounces, 20 inches of dutch/scandinavian gemstone. Mother and baby are healthy and were home the next day. Ada is quite thrilled with her new sister. She serenades her with as much noise as possible. Jenny picked the name much to Bjorn's pleasure as he now has two daughters with computer language names. She is also endeared to the extended Bulthuis family as my grandmother's name was Ruby Elenbaas. 'Jean' comes from Jenny's father. Esther, Markus and I are spending the weekend get acquainted to the new Bulthuis girl.

Southern Peninsula

Toy Point Fox Island
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

It is our practice to celebrate MLK Day with an excursion to a local destination. It was time for a outing, as the rain and darkness was making us feel claustrophobic. Since we needed to run an errand to Gig Harbor we decided to explore the southern extremities of the Kitsap Peninsula: Point Fosdick, Wollochet and Fox Island. It is my ambition to someday circumnavigate the entire Peninsula in my sailboat. Today it was just our comfy Toyota Sienna on dead end roads. The rain held off, but it was very windy. Esther got motion sick from the winding roads and we needed to stop. We found what seems like the only public property on Fox Island: Toy Point. We walked down to the path to enjoy the pier. My teaching partner, Don lives on the island. I was reminded of the determination and effort he puts forth as he commutes to Port Orchard on his motorcycle everyday, rain or shine or wind, but thankfully not ice or snow.

A Norwegian New Year

Touren, Anna, Fredrik, Lucy and Maia
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

Things have finally slowed down enough to post a blog. The first week back to work was a busy one, at least in terms of evening activities. We were able to see Calvin off to Japan for six months and spend an evening with Jenny and Ada. On New Years Day we went to Esther's cousin Anna's house in Tacoma. Her parents were there from Norway as well as Esther's brothers and families. It was great to see niece Bria back from England. Anna and her husband Sovann have a wonderful classic home in North Tacoma overlooking Commencement Bay. They recently raised it up to put a garage underneath and add a huge great room that soaks in the view. We were treated to a Norwegian tradition of lamb and cabbage, along with some scandinavian desserts- a great way to start the New Year.

Yukon Do It

keeping the pace on Beach Dr.
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

My running the past decade has consisted of fitness runs about twice a week, usually between four and six miles. A couple of weeks ago my teaching/running partner proposed the idea of running a half marathon. We are usually not tempted by such torture activities, but since it was in our own backyard, we decided to go for it – finish the year out in style. (or at least in shape!) The 'Yukon Do It half marathon' course started at Manchester Park and followed Beach Drive into Port Orchard and back. I did one practice long run of eleven miles last week and decided I wouldn’t die at thirteen. This morning’s run was very cold, but there were a couple hundred other crazy people, so it didn’t feel so foolish. Don and I started at the back of the pack, so we could slowly pass runners – a great motivating strategy. The run went well, though I could feel Don’s faster pace drag me the last six miles. We crossed the line together at 1 hour 50 minutes, not enough to win any prizes, but respectable for a couple of 50+ers. We finished the morning off at the pancake house with Esther and Don’s daughter Chelsea, who documented the momentous event with her new camera. I’ll be happy to go back to my fitness running. Maybe the full marathon next year. We’ll have to think about that for a while!

Christmas 2010

Christmas 2010
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

The past week has been filled with family celebrations; meals, gifts and more meals and gifts. Lynden once again was the host to both our extended family gatherings. Since the bulk of both our extended families are in Lynden, we are fortunate to have it all in the same town. My extended family all gathered at my nephew Aaron's house. Everyone was there except Jonathan who had to work in Illinois. A real treat was to meet Kate, Brian's fiance. It was strange not having Mom there and thinking of her alone at the Courtyard. The Eide family moved through the progression of traditional meals in a round robin on the compound. Bria was absent, but enjoying a Christmas in Norway. We all went to Bjorn and Jenny's church for a candlelight service. Back in Southworth, Bjorn, Jenny, Ada and Ellen are spending a few days with us.

An early December climax

Calvin arrives in Seattle amid much fanfare
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

I'm breaking my December blog silence with a report of a grand event. For most, the climax of December is the 25th, and rightly so. But this year it almost feels like yesterday was the climax. For months we have been anticipating the return of our 'a-wayward son' Yesterday afternoon Calvin arrived back in Seattle. A small welcoming committee gathered to greet him at the terminal. However, the one surprised was not Calvin but the welcoming crowd. Unbeknown to the gathering welcomers, Calvin had taken an earlier flight from Vancouver. He patiently waited in the shadows as friends gathered with posters and anticipation. As Esther and I joined the group, Calvin surprised us from behind, fifteen minutes before his plane was to arrive. He helped unroll his welcome home posters for the terminal to enjoy. An hour later, we were able to turn the surprise back to the traveler as Josh deLacy arrived from Michigan. The unusual poster and poem caught the curiosity of all who passed by. Josh and Calvin's friend, Alicia is never short of ideas. Calvin was craving Mexican food so four cars followed one GPS on a goose chase to a nearby Archie's Mexican Food.

A White Thanksgiving in Greenwood

A white Thanksgiving in Greenwood
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

We spent an enjoyable Thanksgiving in Lynden with the Eides. Bjorn and Jenny weren't there as they went down to Oregon, though we were able to connect on the road as they made their way down and we made our way up with Markus. Kay's family from Tonasket came over the Cascades, so it was an Eide/Pridmore event. We awoke Thanksgiving to a thick blanket of snow which kept thickening as the day went on. I could not recall ever having a white Thanksgiving, though Esther vouches for such in her imaginary childhood:) We visited my Mom a couple of times which is always an emotional challenge as she responds less and less each time. We did not participate in the Black Friday frenzy, though we did do something uncharacteristic in that we watched seven hours of football in one day. Ending our weekend back in Southworth, we had the unexpected surprise of connecting and having dinner with Doug and Merri Monkemeier who pastored at Harper when we first came to Southworth. It was good catching up on one another's lives and families.

Southworth Storm

marine casualty of the November storm
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

This week Kitsap County was blasted with ice and wind. For some reason Kitsap got the brunt of the wind Monday night. With over 50,000 customers out of power for over 24 hours, we were one of thousands of households coaxing the room temperature with gas and wood to ward off pipe freeze, let alone occupant freeze. In our midday walk through Southworth on Tuesday, Esther and I came across this unfortunate casualty of the storm. I had a hunch this cabin cruiser wouldn't hold its mooring off Olympiad Drive. This is the second cabin cruiser that 'bit the dust' or rather 'smashed the rocks' in Southworth this fall. While sailboats seem to weather the storms a little better, these tubs are not sleek enough to cut through wind and wave. My marine treasure is safely moored beside the house. Now that the power is back on, we will head to Lynden for Thanksgiving.

A new house for the Carlsons

helping Frank and Sheri move in their new house
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

This weekend I helped Frank and Sheri Carlson move into their new home. Frank and Sheri are in our small group and are long time Harperites, though recently married. The new house is built on Frank's family property overlooking Sinclair Inlet. HIs parents lived on the property in a small post war cottage. The new house has some unique 'small man' features including some short counters in the kitchen and a short commode. There are great views from the living, dining, kitchen and bedroom. This couple deserves to enjoy this great new house.

Blog site facelift

Blog site facelift
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

Having very little blogworthy news to share this week, I decided to give my blog site a long overdue facelift. Using blogger's new template designer, it was easy to add a little more pizzaz to the site. Esther has been enjoying the new MacBook Air while I have been dealing with some issues with my 'faithful' MacBook. One highlight of the past week was having missionaries Dan and Carrie Ritzman at our small group. They are missionaries in Belgium serving Iranian refugees. It was interesting to learn more about the Ritzman's ministry and this unique ethnic group with it's rich history and culture, as well as the people's great hunger for the gospel.

Mom's MacBook Air

Esther models the 11" MacBook Air
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

For months we have been debating about getting an iPad. I was excited about playing with the new hands-on device, but Esther wasn't sure about the lack of a keyboard and inconvenient lap use. Since the justification for a new technology device was a replacement for the ten year old iBook that Esther has been nursing along, I decided I should defer to her wishes. Well, the release of the new MacBook Air was just what I needed to get spousal consent. This weekend we took the plunge and purchased an 11" MacBook Air. It is amazingly light, compact and super fast. My MacBook suddenly feels like a clunker. On another note, it was conference week at school and for the first time since I have been teaching, all of the parents showed up! I always get a no show or two. This afternoon, we took an Halloween Day drive to enjoy the Fall colors and a little bit of sunshine. We drove out the Northshore Dr. on Hood Canal and kept going on the dirt road all the way to Dewatto. It is some pretty remote country but the woods were beautiful with the yellow alder leaves shouting out from among the deep green evergreen. Tonight we will have our traditional pigs-in-a-blanket and we will reminisce of Halloweens gone by. Such is the plight of the empty nester!

mission accomplished

skipper Tim at the helm
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

Every fall I have the nagging ambivalent feeling that I need to get my boat out of the water before winter storms come. 'Ambivalent' because I don't want my sailing to come to an end for the year. In former years, I recruited one of my sons to help me with the tasks of hauling up a 150 lb mushroom anchor from the sea floor and getting a sailboat on a trailer at the launch. Having no sons at home anymore, my friend Tim deLacy came to the rescue. He was rewarded for his kind labors with a mild breeze which allowed us a relaxing sail to the Manchester dock rather than the drone of the outboard. I can sleep a little sounder tonight with the boat safe in her dry dock for the winter.

Connecting on Columbus Day

Stonyridge
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

A three day weekend afforded us the opportunity to visit Greenwood (a.k.a. Lynden) Saturday we went for lunch at the Everson Auction Sale Barn. Yes, it was hard to choke down the chiliburger with the aroma of manure wafting up from the floor; but it was a childhood memory that Esther needed to relive. Then it was across the street to the Stonyridge Pumpkin Patch with sights and sounds to delight Ada. The drizzly weather finally got to us and we headed back home down the Van Dyk Rd. Sunday was church at Oikos (Bjorn and Jenny's church) and lunch at Little Cheerful's in Bellingham and a visit with Mom. Monday the Greenwood clan took a hike at Lake Tenant in some welcome sunny weather before enjoying lunch at Boundary Bay Brewery.

September sunset sail on the sound

September sunset sail on the sound
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

It is evenings like today that justify leaving my boat at its mooring until late October. If I hurry home from work, I can be on the water by 5:00, which gives me a glorious hour or two soaking up the wind, sun and view from the middle of the sound. City, forest, mountain and sea all beam brightly in the setting sun. To top it off, I came home to some wonderful salmon chowder that Esther made from fresh salmon caught by a friend from school. A couple more of these and I'll be ready to put the boat away for another winter.

2010 leaders hike

2010 IMA leaders hike
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

We couldn't have ordered better weather for our annual hike up Mt. Townsend. We had contingency plans in place, but they weren't necessary. Don and I took 12 students and several parents/grandparents up 6200 ft. Mt. Townsend. It was an eight mile round trip adventure. One parent and child decided to turn back, but the rest all made it to the top. The view from the top includes an interior look at the Olympics and a panorama of the Puget Sound and Cascade Range. The hike is offered to the leaders of our classroom of 56 kids. These dozen or so kids have proved themselves responsible and able to help guide their peers. We have another great group of leaders this year.

Victorian Anniversary

inner harbor aboard the Coho
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

It has been six years since Esther and I have visited Victoria. This weekend being our anniversary, we made a weekend overnighter to the enchanted city. It never ceases to amaze me how ‘European’ Victoria feels so close to us. I love entering the city from the harbor. We took the 12:45 Coho from Port Angeles and jumped into an afternoon of strolling, shop browsing and dining before retiring to our ninth floor hotel room at the Coast Harbourside. The pounding rain in the middle of the night didn’t give us high hopes for Sunday’s weather, but we were pleasantly surprised by sunny skies by late morning. We enjoyed a delicious brunch buffet, which gave us the energy to walk the harbor perimeter, including the fisherman’s wharf which has had some upgrades since we visited last. Another change that we noticed this time was the prevalence of the cruise ships. During our 25 hours in the city, we saw five different large cruise ships drop off their teaming tourists to terrorize the town. We caught a 3:00 ferry back to PA where it was pouring down rain. Once again Victoria delivered on a romantic getaway.

School Resumes for another year

table flags
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

The school year is off to a good start. We have a nice group of students who are anxious to learn. As a community building activity, each table made a flag to represent themselves. Then we had our own Olympic games, complete with opening flag procession and rigorous competition. It's easy to fall into our familiar routines as teachers, so Don and I have to keep asking ourselves if our routines are effective or would they benefit from a change. I am looking forward to a good year.

Summer's Labor

the last of Jim's patio
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

On the eve of school starting, I take time to reflect on the summer of 2010. Amidst the excitement of vacations, sailing and preparing for Calvin to leave, I managed to complete a several year project for my neighbor. I built retaining walls and poured cement slabs around the remaining portion of his house. The second floor is completely surrounded by decks which I have built, and the bottom floor is surrounded by cement patio or driveway. I'm not sure what's in store for next summer, but he'll think of something! Tomorrow begins a new year in the classroom. I am ready!

Introducing 'Big Man Japan'

If you haven't already found Calvin's Japan blog, I would encourage you to check it out. He is having quite the adventure and is keeping up an active blog. After all the years of him dreaming of this adventure, it is rewarding to see him living it out. Big Man Japan

Calvin takes the plunge

The attached video is of Calvin bungee jumping this summer, but this morning he took the big plunge to Tokyo. We took him to the airport early this morning along with Jenny and Ada as they flew to South Dakota this morning. Calvin is embarking on three years of university study in Japan. He had a great send off on Sunday with his brothers and Mike, Marti and Marika over for a 'last supper' Calvin plans to spend his first night in Japan at a 'capsule hotel' in dowtown Tokyo. The next day he will check-in at International Christian University. We would love to have brought Calvin to his new academic adventure, but finances and schedules prohibit that. Instead, Esther and I sit at home and feel like we just took a bungee plunge!

SOLD

SOLD Venture Newport 23
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

Today I sold one of my sailboats. I have had this boat for about ten years. It's only been used for a couple of seasons. I haven't used it for three years. It is a nice boat for family cruising, but for my usual needs the Montgomery is just right.I like the boat but can't justify keeping it around. Boats take lots of upkeep - even fiberglass ones. I have wanted to get it ready for selling the last couple of years, finally did it! The buyer is a retired teacher from the Portland area who I am sure will give it a good home and fix it up a bit. The grounds should look a little more tidy with just one boat and trailer around.

family vacation Seabrook

family vacation - Ella's Escape, Seabrook
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

Overheated on the Washington coast, we must have been be dreaming! When we booked our weekend reservations for a family getaway at Seabrook a few months ago, we anticipated the usual gray skies and drizzle. We were planning on enjoying the cozy accommodations and maybe getting a weather break here and there. Well, Saturday we hit the jackpot for coastal weather. Everything was warm except the Pacific Ocean. Seabrook is a newly constructed beach community near Pacific Beach, WA. We rented a house for three nights and enjoyed a long weekend of relaxing family activities – dining, biking, swimming, reading, beaching, gaming, sleeping, touring, picnicking, walking, swinging and pickling (pickle ball). Our house for the weekend was called ‘Ella’s Escape’, which for me was in honor of my Aunt Ella in Chicago. Sunday, the fog returned, so we took a short trip to Lake Quinault Lodge. The gathering was somewhat of a last hoorah before Calvin leaves for Japan.

Garden Celebrations

wedding party Aaron and Amy
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

This past weekend Esther and I went north to attend a wedding in Vancouver BC. We also got to care for Ada as her parents rushed back and forth across the Canadian border, helping with the wedding preparation and entertaining out of town guests. Aaron Castle is a good friend of Bjorn's from college and Amy Neilson is good friend of Jenny's. Each couple claims that they are responsible for getting the other couple together. The wedding was at a stately mansion on the south side of Vancouver. The grounds and facilities made an elegant wedding setting. We also got to spend time with Esther's family and an evening with Doug, Pam and Ellen. Another highlight of the weekend was a progressive dinner at Marti and Mike's to celebrate Esther's birthday. Marti had five different tables set up around the property, each with a unique set of decorations. The six of us rotated around the tables enjoying the scrumptious courses. It started with clams and mussels in the shell, Italian soup, fresh garden salad next to the garden, salmon with cooked vegetables carefully selected from the garden by each guest, and topped with Martha Stewart's icebox cake by out door candle light. Needless to say, it's going to take a lot to top that meal.

Visit from Sis

with Ellen in Port Townsend
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

My sister Ellen came to Washington for a short visit last week. She crammed in a quick trip before starting her school year of teaching in Sacramento. We were able to have Sheri Nelson over for dinner one night and Ellen and Sheri were able to swap China stories. On Wednesday we took an outing to Port Townsend. I enjoyed the new Wooden Boat Foundation complex and the ladies did a little shop browsing. Ellen also went up to Lynden to share some time with Doug and Pam and visit Mom a few times.

Climbing Mt. Baker

Markus, Calvin and Josh - summit of Mt Baker
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

Calvin and his friend Josh have been hounding me to climb Mt. Baker this summer; so this week Markus joined us as we made the ascent. The 'partly cloudy' Thursday forecast turned to a light drizzle and dark clouds as we approached the trailhead. We contemplated postponing for a day but the forest service office encouraged us to go ahead since it would clear up in time for our morning ascent, We met a few climbers coming down who had horror stories of their morning summit - high winds and ice pellets. We continued on with the hopes of clear skies by midnight. We hiked through the fog to the high camp at Black Buttes. It was cold, cloudy and windy so we took care of dinner and essentials and then spent the evening in the tents, Unfortunately, I only slept for fifteen minutes before our two o'clock wake up. We woke to a clear blanket of stars and a towering summit. With head lamps and rope we headed up. As we made our way up we enjoyed stars, sunrise, views and a towering mountain. The final hour was extremely exhausting. We arrived on the summit at 8 am, the first party of the day. It was cold and windy but the views were amazing! The long hike back to the trailhead was agonizing, but we were glad we had the summit over as we met crowds of climbers heading up for the next day's summit. We are thankful for a safe trip and great weather. This was my third ascent of the mountain and my body is telling me it should be the last.

Guess who came for a visit?

Don't let go, Daddy
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

Actually, it turned out to be a Bulthuis family event this weekend. Bjorn, Jenny and Ada were returning from Georgia where they spent time with Jenny's sister Jill and family. They decided to give us a couple of days before returning home. Markus came home for part of the weekend as well. We went to Belfair State Park to enjoy the sun and ate at the Blue Agave. Saturday, Bjorn and I went sailing while the girls went shopping. Brett came over for dinner and we got to reminisce. On Sunday we all went to Markus' church, Quest Church in Seattle. It is amazing how much Ada is changing. The mobility of walking has transformed her into quite the busybody. She has also become very verbal, at least in the departments of volume and chatter fluency. In all the babble there is the rudiments of Mama, Daddy, Please and ByeBye.

Tokyo Housing for Calvin

Calvin's dorm admission notice from ICU
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

One of the anxieties that we have had about Calvin attending International Christian University in Japan is his housing situation. They have very limited campus housing and there is no guarantee the international students will get on campus housing. The prospect of Calvin finding reasonable and accessible housing in Tokyo was a big concern of ours. Even though we had committed ourselves last month by sending the full year's tuition, we did not know if he had a spot in one of the dorms. Well, this week Calvin received notice from the school that he has a spot in an on campus dorm. Praise the Lord! His dorm is called 'Canada House' which was the one he most wanted to get in because it was more reasonable and had two students to a room. Calvin is not the only one excited about this as it takes a load of concern off our hearts as well. The thought of Calvin commuting 45 minutes to an hour across town, living with students from a variety of other Tokyo schools didn't set well with us. We are excited for Calvin. His dream is getting real close to coming true.

Utah Adventure - Day 8 and 9

Park City Utah
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

Sunday and Monday were travel days getting back home from southeast Utah. We did take a few hours to visit Park City. We expected a resort town like Whistler, but Park City is much bigger. There was a big Fourth of July celebration going on with thousands of people. We found a restaurant out of the bustle and rode our bikes on the great bike paths into Main Street to walk around and see the shops and people. Then it was back on the road for the long haul. We enjoyed the nightly accommodations of Super Walmart in Mountain Home, Utah. Our final day found us grinding back home. We did take a slight excursion by driving Chinook Pass over the mountains. It had been many years since driving it and we enjoyed it over the familiar and crowded I 90. We made it home, having driven about 3400 miles, visiting five National Parks, staying four nights in motels and four nights in the van. We made it back to Washington just in time for summer weather to start.

Utah Adventure - Day 7

Slick Rock Bike Trail - Moab
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

Mellowing in Moab Before our mad dash for home, we slowed the pace a little to enjoy the town and surroundings of Moab. Situated between Arches and Canyonlands NPs, as well as multiple off road venues, the town booms as a recreational hub, but has taken on the tourist destination feel with lots of motels, restaurants and shops. First, we switched motels from the rip off Motel 6 to a plush La Quinta, at a cheaper rate courtesy of a travel coupon. (Thanks for the tip Susan) In the midday, we explored Canyonlands National Park with short hikes to Mesa Arch and Grand View Point. In the afternoon, Esther went shopping while I checked out the world famous Slick Rock Trail. I intended to watch other bikers, but since there was no one there, and I couldn’t embarrass myself, I took my bike on the practice loop. I crawled through the course, stopping to get off once in a while. The trail is marked by white dashes painted on the rock. The scenery was amazing and I fortunately escaped injury. I think I’ll stick with commuting and bike paths for my biking! We enjoyed a late afternoon swim at the motel pool and a good dinner at the crowded Moab Brewery.

Utah Adventure - Day 6

morning ride up Red Canyon
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

The Red Canyon is just north of Bryce Canyon. There is a nice paved bike trail that winds up the canyon. We started our day off with an hour bike ride. We then pointed the Sienna towards Moab. On the way, we had some scenic surprises. Highway 12 from Bryce to Torrey has got to be one of the most scenic highways in the country. Much of it is in the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. From red rock canyons to rolling hills of aspen groves; from grand vistas to Anasazi ruins, this highway covers it all, with very little traffic. We also stopped in Capital Reef National Park. This lesser known NP has a lot to offer, but is much less developed than its neighbors. We took the time to take a hike up the Grand Wash to the narrows. It was a little on the warm side because the elevation is lower, but we enjoyed the shade and breezes of the canyon. We made it to Moab on the late side, and unlike our usual habit, checked in to a Motel 6.

Utah Adventure - Day 5

a dutch hoodoo
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor

'Hoodoo City' - In the morning we drove through the rest of Zion Park, including the mile long tunnel built in 1930. We arrived at Bryce Canyon Park in the early afternoon and found a campsite. We were glad to feel the cooler temperature of the high altitude. After a buffet lunch and a park introduction at the visitors center, we plunged into the canyon for a three mile hike. Strolling through the canyons and pinnacles was definitely worth the hike. Looking over a canyon has one kind of grandeur, looking up at the columns of red rock provide a different one. We drove to the several lookouts and then watched the sunset while strolling the rim. We ended the evening enjoying the Lodge and stumbling across an astronomer's bash enjoying the pre-moonrise in a remote high altitude setting. We enjoyed the cool night in our 'hardshell camper'.