Whidbey's "wow" factor!

When Brad and Yessi were planning for the visit of seven TuTwo company officials, they placed Whidbey Island on the itinerary.  Why?  Well, start with the famed ferry ride, then the extraordinary water views and not-to-be-beat momentous mountain views.  Top it off with the charming town of Langley, friendly people and striking architecture by dbBrad, and you've got a tour winner.

And, this is why Ed and I enjoyed the honor of the TuTwo visitors at our home.

Gathering on the lawn  at Fredley home on Whidbey Island.

Ed and I displaying our beautiful new fans-from-China on the Fredley home porch.

Showing off our town is always fun and always a hit.  This was no exception.  Pointing out creative gardens and  introducing visitors to charming people is always pleasing.  Strolling on this not-sunny but not-raining afternoon,  was exceedingly pleasant for visitors and tour guides as well.  Thank you Langley!  Thank you TuTwo!

Visiting the Langley City Hall's edible garden 

Langley Marina generated many questions and much enthusiasm

Because TuTwo is an outdoor company, Wander on Whidbey was very high on Brad and Yessi's list of shops to visit.  Naturally, Sarah never disappoints!

One of TuTwo's favorite shops -- Wander on Whidbey with Sarah, Brad and Yessi

The Langley Second Street Market was a popular stop for shopping with cucumbers and
blueberries being the favorites.

Good Cheer was a winner too! with Fran, Yessi, Brad and Ed

Hearts & Hammers 2010

The first Saturday in May is Hearts & Hammers Day on South Whidbey. Hundreds of volunteers come together to help repair and rehabilitate the homes of their friends and neighbors who are unable to do the work alone. This is an annual event of neighbors helping neighbors with homeowners receiving labor and materials at no cost. Everything is provided by the generosity of the South Whidbey community including hard-working volunteers, churches, service and community organizations and the business community.

Ed and I worked in the kitchen this year helping serve the hundreds of hungry volunteers and then cleaning up the South Whidbey High School cafeteria after the event. The kitchen crew begins first thing in the morning preparing and serving breakfast for the volunteers. Then the mid day kitchen crew prepares dinner. The third shift helps serve dinner and provides clean up services. The entire meal operation, although huge, is small compared to the people in the field repairing homes. The entire operation brings tears to my eyes as you see the enthusiasm, skill, talent, generosity and caring this community pours into helping one another.

dbBrad (Brad and crew) worked on a home putting on a new roof, spending about 16 hours in two days making sure the job got done. Other contractors and individuals did the same. It is an awesome event.

When new people move to Whidbey I always suggest that a great way to meet people and feel a part of the community is to volunteer with Hearts & Hammers.