Early this morning, First Responder Robin and volunteer John sipped coffee and waited for weaner Miracle to show up at the small cove along Harbor Avenue. Thankfully, the small seal swam past yesterday's bad location and crawled up onto her old familiar rock near the cement overlook. We quickly closed the area with "Share the Shore - Protected Marine Mammal" tape.

Scheduler Jimi was happy to report that there were sufficient volunteers on the calendar to cover what was sure to be a long day, since the next high tide was after 6pm. Melinda J and Cathy M were first to show up to lend a hand, followed by Margy, Molly and Kelsey (photo left), Kristen A, Barb Z, Karen T and Todd with daughter Caitlin. 8-year old volunteer Lina, who named Miracle, came with her younger brother and mom Rebecca. First Responders Lynn, David and Dana all stopped by to check in on things.


There was a surprising amount of pedestrian traffic today, despite the wind, showers and cold that only worsened as the day wore on. At one point, volunteers collapsed their umbrellas and ran for their cars as a brief squall, complete with a thunderclap and lightning swept through.

Miracle was more alert to activity today, perhaps a result of yesterday's mishap, but zonked out for a really long snooze all afternoon. The only thing that spooked her were three paddle boarders in the Bay who came fairly close around the point, within about 75 yards. Skittish Miracle almost abandoned ship again as we held our collective breath, fearing another fateful tumble down the rocks like yesterday’s. However, she stayed put and finally settled back in and fell asleep, dangling half off her perch (above) for the rest of the day.

Volunteers got caught in a few dousing rain showers today, but spirits were not dampened in the least. Just as vols Jay and Dori were headed down for their 5pm shift, Miracle slid off her mossy perch and swam off into Elliott Bay in search of perch...or any of the many other forage fish or even squid for dinner.

Thanks to everyone who kept Miracle safe again today. Volunteers did a tremendous job interacting with and educating the public. We expect a repeat performance from Miracle tomorrow.

Tags: Miracle