The sun is out again, reminding us of why we love San Juan Island. 

Did you know that we get HALF as much rain as Seattle?  The splendid outdoor lifestyle is a result of our location in the “rainshadow” of the mountains.  An example of the health life and outdoor activities are the events that are coming up on our islands.

On San Juan, there is a goal to complete the multi-use athletic field at San Juan Island Community Fields and have it open to the public on September 1.  How do islanders do that?  In the time-honored and successful dinner and auction manner!  This fundraiser will begin at 4 p.m. on April 21 and is called Fields of Dreams – you may have seen the posters around town.  Planned events include a BBQ dinner, an auction of donated items, a  beer garden, dancing, and live music at this fun-filled family oriented event. Tickets are available at Ace Hardware.

The San Juan County Fairground, in Friday Harbor, is a valuable resource for people living in the islands.  It has been the scene of the County Fair since its inception.  But there are a lot more things going on there…horse shows, 4-H classes, Sales Events, Children’s Festivals, etc.  Following the Fields of Dreams Fundraiser at the Fairgrounds on Saturday will be a Scooter and Trike time at the huge cement floor of the main fair building.  Afterwards, at 8:30 there will be roller skating.  Island Rec does a great job of keeping us moving!

For the more sedate, on Friday at the same Fairgrounds facility, there is a wonderful play by the actors of Island Stage Left.  It opened to a standing ovation at the first performance.  This is “Someone to Watch Over Me.”  This show, which begins at 7:30 on Friday, is also performed on Sunday at 4:00.  The performances are free, although donations are always appreciated.  This moving play will elicit tears and laughter as it celebrates the resilience of the human spirit.

Don’t forget that the third Saturday of every month at our Historic San Juan County Grange Hall building in Friday Harbor, there are Contra Dances from 7 until 9 in the evening. No partners are needed and all dances are taught with live music (fiddle, guitar, mandolin and piano).  No experience is necessary and a $10 donation would be appreciated. Students are half price.

Whatever your plans are, take a moment to get moving and go outside by visiting the beaches and parks in the islands, and enjoy your weekend.