After a drenching wet November, it still hasn't rained in December. That might finally change this weekend. The last two weeks have been monotonously foggy, with a few spectacular sunny days when we blink around like astonished moles.
The real problem though is the temperature inversion, meaning the air is colder near sea level and warmer in the foothills and mountains. This traps all the pollutants near the ground, so there's been an air quality advisory in effect for days. It gives many of us a scratchy throat and itchy eyes, just like the feeling of coming down with a cold. It's miserable and unhealthy.
Still, you have to get out, so I decided to ride Moe while it was still dry. On the ride to Vashon Island yesterday, a pod of Orcas were swimming, playing and breaching close to the ferry. It was magnificent! The captain pointed them out, and of course everyone rushed to that side of the boat. (The photo is from the Seattle Aquarium.)
There are only about 80 endangered Orcas left in Puget Sound. They are always "around" but it's still unusual and lucky to see them in their natural setting. I've lived here for most of my adult life, and this was the first time.
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