To learn more about Whidbey’s 4-H youth and their animals, pick up a copy of the 2018 Spring/Summer print issue, available at retail locations on the island.
All photographs by Marcia Wesley and Marsha Morgan.
Category: Photo essay
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Whidbey Island Awakens: Spring is Finally Here
PHOTOESSAY BY SUSAN S. SCOTT
Whidbey Life Magazine Contributor
April 12, 2017Regardless of this year’s record rainfalls and rare sightings of sunshine, the new life of springtime carries forth in abundance on Whidbey Island. This season’s delightful gifts inspired me to pick up my camera and share a few spring moments with you.
Light breaks through rain clouds over Saratoga Passage. 
Newborn lamb discovers the wonders in Fossek’s Field 
Forsythia blossoms forth. 
Nature’s art opens on a rare sunny day in March. 
Colorful streamers woven into robin’s nest in Freeland. 
First cherry blossom celebrates the light along Third Street in Langley. 
Coupeville calf explores his new world. 
Herons tend their nests in Langley. 
Langley beach harbors hidden treasure. 
Steller’s Jay at Earth Sanctuary 
Curious lambs climb a downed tree in Fossek’s Field. 
Sunrise over Mt. Pilchuk on the vernal equinox. Susan Scott is a photographer and author who lives in Langley, Washingon. You can learn more about her here.
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Winter Moments Around Puget Sound
PHOTOESSAY BY SUSAN S. SCOTT
Whidbey Life Magazine Contributor
January 26, 2017Whidbey Island has been my home for the past 21 years, and as time goes by, I find it to be only more inspiring and comforting as a place to live. The natural beauty of our island, as well as the community spirit we share with one another, makes it a unique and cherished gift for all of us. I enjoy celebrating our living treasures by taking photographs, whether I am walking, cycling, or driving around the island. This winter, I have found what nature offers to be especially uplifting, and I would like to share some of those moments with you.
Ice feathers on Lone Lake 
Saratoga Passage at sunset 
Winter blossom 
Snow Geese gather in Skagit Valley 
Ivy on Madrone tree 
Frosty trees along Coles Road 
Treasure-hunting squirrel 
Sunrise over the Cascades 
Frost on Double Bluff beach 
Ice sculptures on frozen pond 
Driftwood teepee, Seattle skyline 
From the family farm 
Mukilteo lighthouse 
Seed pod at Deer Lagoon Susan Scott is a photographer and author who lives in Langley, Washingon. You can learn more about her here.
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Islanders Take to the ‘Ice’ in Oak Harbor
PHOTO ESSAY BY MARSHA MORGAN AND MARCIA WESLEY
Whidbey Life Magazine Contributors
January 5, 2017For the first time this year, the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce hosted outdoor skating the week after Christmas, and hundreds of people took advantage of the opportunity. The “ice” was synthetic and the snow came from a machine, but the smiles were real, and the event was so popular that organizers expect to bring skating back in 2017.
The Welcome Wagon for the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce, which sponsors Island Ice. (Photo by Marsha Morgan) 
A view of the rink. (Photo by Marsha Morgan) 
A little girl puts her trust in Dad as he swings her around the ice. (Photo by Marcia Wesley) 
Best friends support each other as they skate around the rink. (Photo by Marcia Wesley) 
Taking a tumble. (Photo by Marcia Wesley) 
And all the cool kids skate… (Photo by Marsha Morgan) 
It’s fun for all ages, including grandparents. (Photo by Marsha Morgan) 
The “snow machine,” although tiny, produces a facsimile of snow and adds a festive air to the outside of the rink. (Photo by Marsha Morgan) 
“I’ve got you.” (Photo by Marcia Wesley) 
“Race you!” (Photo by Marcia Wesley) 
“Don’t let go!” (Photo by Marcia Wesley) 
“Can we come back tomorrow?” (Photo by Marsha Morgan) Marsha Morgan and Marcia Wesley are WLM staff photographers.
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WLM stories and blogs are copyrighted and all rights are reserved. You may link to this story. To request permission to use or reprint content from this site, email info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.
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The Faces of 2016 | Through the Lens of David Welton
BY DAVID WELTON
Whidbey Life Magazine Contributor
December 28, 2016There seems to be a national trend of polarization and pessimism that, at times, threatens to infect us here on Whidbey Island. I’ve chosen to focus on the generosity, unity, and joy that we share, despite our diverse views and backgrounds. This collection of environmental portraits from local happenings throughout 2016 offers visual proof of our ability to see through our differences. I hope it inspires us to seek underlying goodness and commonality during the coming year.
Jim Freeman, the “Conductor of Fun,” leads the charge at the Welcome the Whales parade in April.
A toddler shares his bounty of curly fries at the Whidbey Island Area Fair.
At age 95, Peter Lawlor races down 1st Street in the 24th annual Soup Box Derby in Langley in August.
A game of hide and seek amidst the endangered big trees at South Whidbey State Park is called “Eagle Eye” by the kids.
Filmmaker Drew Christie demonstrates a “flip box” or mutoscope, which is featured in his film “The Emperor of Time” a live action short film that was shown at the Sundance Film Festival in 2016.
Boxer Steve Burr gets in some chin ups during the fitness boxing class developed for people with Parkinson’s disease.
Cassie (human), Rowdy, and Midori (parrots) at the south-end avian rescue operation that gives sanctuary to displaced parrots, who fly freely—even during cold January weather.
Even the bunnies come out the promote Mystery Weekend in Langley every February.
The Machine Shop arcade game gallery, a new place to hang out with friends, opened in Langley this summer.
Characters from “The Nutcracker Suite” dance down 1st Street for the Langley Holiday Parade.
Halloween events throughout the island, including Spooktacular Langley, encouraged community spirit.
Aspiring actress Carol Wisman prepares for her first appearance at a vaudeville revue with Whidbey Island performers.
After a story about the volunteer firefighters who save our homes and lives was published in July, 15 new volunteers stepped forward.
Local brewmaster Bob Hodges reveals all (okay, maybe some) secrets of his home brew in “Raising a Glass to Whidbey’s Home Brewers,” which was published in the Spring/Summer 2016 issue of the print version of Whidbey Life Magazine. You can subscribe to the print magazine here.
Kevin Lungren, Mr. South Whidbey, accepts his trophy. The annual pageant, presented by the non-profit Friends of Friends Medical Support Fund, raised more than $29,000 in one night to assist those in need with unexpected medical bills.
Tibetan artist Kalsang Ghongpa shares her smile and colorful necklaces at the Whidbey Island Area Fair.
Patriotism is evident at the Maxwelton Fourth of July Parade. This year, Korean War Veteran Herbert Weissblum, of the Whidbey Island Marine Corps League Color Guard, led the parade.
Whidbey Islanders like to dance! Debra Waterman celebrates life at one of many street dance opportunities.
David Welton is a retired cardiologist and a Whidbey Life Magazine photographer.
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WLM stories and blogs are copyrighted and all rights are reserved. You may link to this story. To request permission to use or reprint content from this site, email info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.
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Spooktacular Langley
PHOTO ESSAY BY DAVID WELTON
Whidbey Life Magazine Contributor
November 2, 2016The Langley Mainstreet Association sponsored a “Spooktacular” Halloween party Monday afternoon. Costumed merchants and businesses provided treats for young and old in a community-wide family-friendly atmosphere, proving that Langley is one of the happiest seaside towns in the country.
This ladybug was fascinated by the talking skull at Ott and Murphy. 
Jango Fett revealed 
Young Mary Poppins in front of the Dog House 
A hungry shark emerges from a feeding frenzy at Ott and Murphy with sugary treats. 
Father “Scream” is a source of family pride. 
FBI agents investigate the kidnapping of a child by a green alien. 
The elfin chef at Portico serves hot corn chowder on a chilly afternoon. 
All were invited to a “Trunk or Treat” at the Langley United Methodist Church parking lot for a tailgate carnival, games, cider, and cupcakes. 
A happy creature feasts at a trunk-load of Halloween goodies. 
David Tiller distributes treats at Whidbey Island Natural. 
A fierce beast and a wicked witch stand guard over the candy kettle at John L Scott Real Estate. 
A hungry mom scores a slice from Village Pizzeria. 
Minding grandaughter’s umbrella when she enters a crowded store David Welton is a retired physician and staff photographer for Whidbey Life magazine.
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WLM stories and blogs are copyrighted and all rights are reserved. You may link to this story. To request permission to use or reprint content from this site, email info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.
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Do the clothes make the dog?
BY DON WODJENSKI
Whidbey Life Magazine Contributor
November 2, 2016On Saturday, October 22, Goosefoot sponsored the 11th annual Mutt Strut at Bayview corner. Forty people registered their costumed dogs for the pet parade and judging, and many wore costumes that matched their pets.
Costumes choices ran from simple to elaborate. There were lion, tiger, and bear costumes, plus clowns, geishas, Star Trek crews, spiders, Pokémon characters, and a sushi-wrapped toy boxer.
Master of ceremonies Jim Freeman led the parade through the Bayview Farmer’s Market and back to Cash Store past hundreds of appreciative spectators. The panel of judges awarded prizes for Best Pet Costume, Best People Costume, Best Dog and Owner Combo Costume, Best Celebrity Dog, Best Dog Trick, and some honorable mentions.
The beautiful fall day provided a perfect backdrop for the festivities. Here are a few of the participants and their canine pals.
Diane Fiumara, with her 6-month-old border collie, Dani 
Lindsay Krug with Daisy Mae 
Sara Primrose, Russell Clepper, and Rio, their 1-year-old Jack Russell terrier and corgi mix who was “Doggle Rump.” Winner of the Best Celebrity Dog prize 
Leah Hartley and her 5-year-old rat terrier Spinnaker Gale won the Best Trick prize for the third year in a row. 
Alex Sheldon, her mother, and their two Yorkshire terriers, won Best Owner Dog-Costume Combo. 
Gail Liston and her dog. She and her husband won Best Adult Costume. 
Suzi Dixon with Gilligan, her Cairn terrier. 
Master of ceremonies Jim Freeman interviews a contestant. 
Steve Mullen with Emma, his 5-year-old French bulldog 
Katherine Poteat with her Yorkie, Peter Don Wodjenski, is an artist, photographer, and musician living in Coupeville. Recently retired as an arts instructor with South Whidbey Schools, he remains active in the Whidbey arts community.
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WLM stories and blogs are copyrighted and all rights are reserved. You may link to this story. To request permission to use or reprint content from this site, email info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.
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A Fall Hike at Deception State Park
BY MARSHA MORGAN
Whidbey Life Magazine Staff Photographer
October 19, 2016When one thinks of Whidbey Island, the iconic Deception Pass Bridge and State Park often come to mind. Any time of the year, including Fall, the bridge and park offer nature at its scenic best.
For more about the Deception Pass area, read Dianna MacLeod’s article, “The Power of Deception,” in the new print edition of Whidbey Life Magazine. The article features photos from many of our island photographers and will be available by October 24 by subscription and at our local retailers.
Several excellent hikes begin underneath the iconic bridge. View the park map online at Deception Pass Park Foundation. 
Bring your dogs – but don’t forget the leashes. 
Oops, camo dog Zoe almost got left behind! 
The trails are thick with native vegetation, evergreen trees, and arbutus. 
After rains, mushrooms and fungus sprout. 
There are beautiful views in all directions. 
Our circle trail brought us back to the bridge and a view of this lone tree guarding the passage. Marsha Morgan is a Whidbey Life Magazine Staff Photographer.
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WLM stories and blogs are copyrighted and all rights are reserved. You may link to this story. To request permission to use or reprint content from this site, email info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.
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Skies of Flame and Spice of Cider: Fall Paints Whidbey Island
BY DAVID WELTON
Whidbey Life Magazine Contributor
October 12, 2016October, always my favorite month, brings Fall to life, quickening the senses with color, scents, and sudden winds.
The sculptural, angled light at sunrise establishes the color palette for autumn leaves. 
As the days grow shorter and nights stretch longer and cooler, we are comforted by orange and black as we sit beside the fire. 
Within our broad swaths of deep evergreen forests, Whidbey Island presents pockets of intense color. 
Within our broad swaths of deep evergreen forests, Whidbey Island presents pockets of intense color. 
A weathered, worn fire hydrant is magically transformed by the glow of a burning bush (euonymus alatus) at South Whidbey High School. 
Sherman Farm pumpkins and jeweled spider webs set the stage for Halloween. 
Yellow grape leaves at Whidbey Island Winery contrast with the blue and green windsock and a 12th Man scarecrow. 
A Seahawk supporter struts his mutt at Bayview Farm and Garden. 
Puppies, forever young 
A child frolics in treefall from the bigleaf maple. 
But childhood ends, and we transition from entertained to entertainer, and pursue adult pastimes. 
October winds stir up a favorite pastime: to windsurf with migratory birds at Double Bluff. 
Fall richness provides time for harvesting Pinot Noir at Spoiled Dog Winery. 
An early snowfall calls for a brisk walk with the dogs and announces the coming of a joyous Winter. David Welton, a retired physician, is a Whidbey Island photographer who credits his grandmother’s travel slide shows and her gift to him of a Kodak Starflash camera for his interest in photographic art. His goal is to use his photographs to inspire others to realize their unrecognized potential. To learn more about Welton, visit his Web site www.davidweltonphoto.com.
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The 11th Annual Mr. South Whidbey A Crowning Success
PHOTOESSAY BY DAVID WELTON
Whidbey Life Magazine Contributor
October 5, 2016The happy sound of adult laughter filled Freeland Hall on Saturday, Oct. 1, in anticipation of the 11th annual Mr. South Whidbey contest. This major fundraiser supports Friends of Friends, a medical support lifeline assisting with unexpected or unaffordable provider and pharmacy bills for residents of Greenbank, Freeland, Langley, and Clinton. Friends of Friends has raised over one million dollars since inception in 1997. For more information about the organization, visit Friends of Friends.
At Saturday’s event, once the lights were dimmed, each contestant made his spotlight entry dressed in a costume appropriate to Whidbey Island.
Alex Bonesteel wore his kilt and played his fiddle. 
Kevin Lungren stripped from his slicker and waders to boxer shorts, adding a touch of informality to his tuxedo. 
Hair-apparent Michael Morgen established his claim to the throne from the very start. 
Michael Morgen 
Contestants air their manliness in anticipation of the “Q and A” segment of the show. 
When asked by MC Sue Frause, “Will you be watching the election returns November 8, and what you will you be eating?” Alex succinctly answered, “No.” 
Trevor Fleming responds that the last meal he prepared for a woman was Ramen noodles. 
Kevin shares a gin and tonic with MC Sue Frause. During intermission, previous contestants circulate, carrying cardboard boxes with plastic cups, each representing a different contestant. Spectators empty their pockets of spare change in support of their favorite. Because this charity doesn’t waste money on frills, the ratio is simple: each dollar equals one vote. Almost $29,000 flowed into the coffers during the course of the event.
Rocco Gianni empties a cup into a coffee can at the tabulation table. After the interviews, the talent show allowed contestants to exhibit their abilities.
Alex is a virtuoso violinist and owns a fitness and nutrition studio. 
Alex demonstrated his athleticism and musical talent. 
Trevor Fleming did a dance number accompanied by his backup performers 
Trevor Fleming 
Oyster-Man, AKA Kevin Lungren, shucked and ate an oyster to music, and then he caught some big fish. 
Oyster-Man, AKA Kevin Lungren. 
David Mayer’s riffs rival the top rock stars. 
Michael Morgen “added some class” by singing like Sinatra… 
and then doing a partial-monty. 
Kevin Lungren is crowned Mr. South Whidbey by Barb Schultz. 
Kevin holds his trophy high as he travels the runway towards his trophy wife Mary-Jane. David Welton is a Whidbey Island photographer who credits his grandmother’s travel slide shows and her gift to him of a Kodak Starflash camera for his interest in photographic art. His goal to use his photographs to inspire others to realize their unrecognized potential. To learn more about Welton, visit David Welton.
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CLICK HERE to read more WLM stories and blogs. Have a great story idea? Let us know at info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.
WLM stories and blogs are copyrighted and all rights are reserved. Linking is permitted. To request permission to use or reprint content from this site, email info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.