Sailing Ships in the bay

Last Sunday, early in the evening, we decided that after a big day of cleaning and sewing and lawn mowing, that we'd do something fun.  I wanted to be near the water - so we headed for Boulevard Park - it runs for blocks and blocks along the bay - with playgrounds, band stands, benches and lots of grass and paths.  It was the perfect temperature -  warm and a slight breeze in the sunshine.

First thing - a cup of coffee for Don and a chocolate cheesecake muffin to share - we sat on one of the benches near the edge of the bay and watched the boats in the harbor.  There were two large sailing ships - the Lady Washington and the Hawaiian Chiefton, out in the bay - doing a historical battle re-enactment.  The Lady Washington is the Official Ship of Washington State.  The two boats sail up and down Washington all summer and you can book rides or battle re-enactments on them.  We just happened to be there the day they were in Bellingham Bay.

The two boats approaching each other as fairies dance about on the water . . .

Puff of smoke from the cannons . . .

Coming about . . .

Small boats came and went all during the afternoon . . .

More smoke . . . more cannon shots - they echoed against the nearby hills behind town . . .

Two ships passing . . .

A view of the stern . . .

Furling the sails . . .

A portion of the bay inside the park . . .  old pilings from lumber mills that used to line the bay . . .

The beach below us . . . usually full of kids skipping rocks and playing in the edge of the water . . . they didn't stay long - it must have been very cold water . . .

The long wooden walkway over part of the bay - this will be closed in the fall for maintenance.  There are benches spaced out along the back of the dock for resting and enjoying the views.  Many walkers, runner and bikers use this dock. . .

View of the old pilings from the dock - someone balanced that piece of driftwood very carefully between two of the pilings . . .

An almost submerged remnant of a piling . . .

A lady on the beach - taking photos - it was a great day for photos and beaches . . .