The Spring Freshet

This past weekend we finally eased 'Indigo' out of her slip and traveled all of five miles or so to anchor at the mouth of the Gilbert River, where it flows out of Sauvie Island and into the Multnomah Channel. We were confident of having enough depth to tie up to the dock there because recent heavy rains had raised all the streams ten to twelve feet above normal. For three days, we used the boat as a home base, and made expeditions via kayak into the middle of Sauvie Island. Lots of this low-lying island were under water, and we paddled through groves of Ash Trees, eased over big patches of blackberry bushes, and took shortcuts that usually require portages. Along with everyone in Oregon, we rejoiced in finally having some sunny weather!

Spring Storms

This April, May, and early June have been remarkable for the endlessstring of storms that have rolled off the Pacific Ocean. This spring weather pattern usually means clouds, wind, and rain stream up towards Portland from the southwest. The view from our current highrise camp provides a sweeping storm sky panorama. Thes are two in a series of cloud paintings done this spring.