Winter Wanderings

Saturday afternoon The Investigator and I decided to take a winter drive to clear the cobwebs from spending too much time indoors.  We headed north into the farming country of Skagit County passing old farmhouses, barns and empty muddy fields.

Off in the distance we could see flocks of snow geese which have migrated down from Alaska and Siberia.  Thousands of them arrive every winter.  Unfortunately, we were unable to get a close look at them this trip, so the photo below is from a girlfriend who was in the area last week and was lucky enough to see a flock resting by the side of the road.
 

Eventually, we ended up in the little town of LaConner nestled along the Swinomish Channel between the mainland and Fidalgo Island.  In the spring and summer these little streets are bustling with tourists stopping to enjoy the farm produce and to boat along the channel.  This day the skies were overcast, the breeze was blustery and cold, and the boardwalks were empty.

In the distance you could see the Rainbow Bridge which crosses the Swinomish channel and takes you onto the Swinomish Indian Reservation.

Back on the main street we burrowed into our coats, and with hands in pockets, took a little walk peeking in the windows of the local art galleries and enjoying the peaceful courtyard gardens between buildings.

We wandered into a couple of shops including this old fashioned general store.

I have been seeing these little sipping broths in several places recently.  Has anyone tried them?

Lavender farming has become very popular in the area and this sweet smelling shop, showcasing local Lavender products, looked interesting.  

I loved this lavender wreath and was tempted to bring it home.  Perhaps another time.

 We took a late lunch in a little bakery restaurant, redolent with the delicious smells of fresh baked bread.

Homemade bacon and mushroom quiche with fresh clam chowder, Yumm!  I was halfway through it before I realized I wanted a picture.

The days are short this time of the year and by the time we had finished it was time to leave if we wanted to be home before dark.  I have already decided not to wait so long to come back to this lovely spot but for now it's time to call it a day.  Adieu!