Traffic: Tug Boat Pulling a Log Boom

It’s pretty quiet at the house these days. I have spent a considerable amount of time in my garden, trying to defeat the wilderness which is creeping in from all corners. I already had to mow the grass twice in the garden, a sign of regular rain, and warmer weather…

When I look out over the water, boat traffic remains pretty light. The other day, which was exceptionally sunny, I noticed a tug pulling a log boom. Actually, I heard the tug first, its engine calling it to attention. Then I thought the light was just right for a picture or two…

There you have it: a forest, floating on the ocean, being pulled in a giant lasso (the “boom”), headed for Vancouver, to be loaded onto freighters bound for Asia, most likely. BC exports its trees whole. Saves a few jobs in this province, that’s for sure.On that day, the tug circled up and down Plumper Sound, obviously biding its time, waiting before the crossing of Georgia Strait toward Vancouver. Maybe there is an overflow of trees, log booms awaiting loading. A glut of floating forests in the Port of Vancouver…

Tug and Log Boom, Plumper Sound, BC

Bull Kelp – Photo Wednesday

All around this island, when you stare at the water, you see bull kelp. Starting to grow early in the season. In full bloom, later, during the summer. Almost poking out of the water in early fall. Too tall for low tide!
Bull kelp, Nereocystis (Greek for "mermaid's bladder")
Here is an informal picture of bull kelp (nereocystis luetkeana) floating about in the current. This annual kelp grows to impressive size (90 feet+) in one season, then breaks down and washes up in the most interesting “curls” on the shore, in the fall. 

It creates forests underwater, where countless creatures hide, live and make a living.

Ballard Locks in Seattle – Photo Wednesday

Last weekend, I joined a dozen Canadians who went to Seattle, to attend the Surface Design Association Symposium, “Surface Matters“. It was a wonderful weekend, very inspiring.

On Sunday, the Symposium planners held an exhibition and studio tour at the Ballard Works studios and area. It was a wonderful chance to explore the Ballard area on foot.

Public art, sculpture at Ballard/Crittenden Locks, Seattle, WA
While wandering in the neighbourhood, I came to the Ballard Locks and Dam. Above, a sculpture located above the fish ladder (click here for the video of salmon swimming through) which is built in the dam. Below, a street shot of the nearby café, which serves many treats, including very decent fish and chips. I really like Seattle!
Café near the Ballard/Crittenden Locks - Seattle, WA

Quilts and Photography