Seeing the San Juan Islands is magical and seeing the orcas can be downright transcendental for some. But, when you can pair those two things with a major milestone in a person's life it becomes a rare and unique moment that makes existence in this world a more glorious thing. It also shines a light on one of the reasons why I have always chosen to live the impoverished lifestyle of a naturalist/wildlife rehabilitator/marine mammal rescuer/zookeeper. Much as it is said that baseball is all about the love of the game, wildlife caretaking is all about the love of the animals. And that love makes it all worth it.
Today we saw the orcas again and it was a beautiful day. But, for Chase and Ashley it marked the completion of a quest and the start of a new adventure. This was their second trip out to Friday Harbor from Toledo, Ohio and last time they did not see orcas. This visit they were determined, even if it meant going out on the boat every day so that Ashley could see her most favorite animal. She even has the best tattoo of an orca I have ever seen; it looks just like the pictures. Thankfully it turned out to be their lucky day and we got to watch J pod breach, spyhop and generally horseplay their way around East Point and down Saturna Island. Chase was even able to get some great photos that they can put on the wall of their home to mark this special of day. An additional reminder of their time here in the islands will be the fact that this is the day that Chase and Ashley got engaged.
So, from all of us at San Juan Safaris, to all of you lovebirds and animal lovers out there, thank you and...
Congratulations Chase and Ashley!
~Tristen, Naturalist