Sandsations 2009

Erik's favorite simply called "Buddy":

My favorite; I call it Feather Volcano with Kelp Lava:

Our local sandcastle building contest was held in July. It was excellent; lots of families and friends hanging out at the beach for the day. We saw many fine sandcastles and sculptures made by the most humble novices to the experts. Take a look for yourself by clicking here.

Extra! Extra! Giant Alien Bug Attacks Screen Door

Turns out to be the "Ten-lined June Beetle". They are rather large in size (for an insect), some growing to sizes as large as an 1¼ inches or more. They are attracted to light and feed off the needles of coniferous trees. They can make a hissing sound when touched or otherwise disturbed. Our specimen was about 2 inches long and didn't make a peep. These big beetles come out in June or July in the Northwest.