sequim, washington, originally uploaded by BobButcher.

This photo wonderfully illustrates “the blue hole” that is often found over Sequim, thanks to the Olympic Mountains Rain Shadow. As clouds block the sun over Port Angeles, Vancouver Island, and Port Townsend, the blue hole ensures that residents of Sequim will bask in sunshine.

January tends to be a gray, rainy month in the coastal areas of the Pacific Northwest. Most of us who live here don’t mind so much, as long as we can escape to the sun from time to time. Some folks head east of the Cascade Mountains, where the sun is usually accompanied by snow. Others head to Sequim, where mild temperatures reign.

When you feel yourself in need of a little vitamin D, pack your bags and head to Sequim. Oh, and don’t forget your sunblock.

Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura), originally uploaded by poecile05.

Blue Skies, Brown Birds. Taken on December 8.