Once again, happy holidays everyone and a special greeting to those of you who were able to spend some time at the guesthouse this past year. It wasn't hard to enjoy a stay this past year as the weather cooperated, the fish returned in droves and the mushrooms sprung up throughout the second growth forests near the guesthouse.  Those of you who stayed had lots of berries and veggies to pick from in the greenhouse and gardens and birdwatchers didn't even have to leave the living room to spot many varieties.  The elk grazed in the pasture across the road and the river was perfect for canoe and kayak trips as summer drifted by.  Mostly, though, it was just the usual peace and quiet that made things most enjoyable.

As promised in the 2013 edition, we painted the house, a big job since its rough sawn board and batten siding requires double the time to cover neatly. But, it's always worth it in the end as it brings out the best of the guesthouse.

The new greenhouse was a big success with lots of tomatoes, lettuce, peppers, squash and eggplants taking top billing, while herbs flourished as well.  The adjoining covered garden was full of all sorts of favorites such as strawberries, several varieties of bush beans, summer cabbages, carrots, spinach, lettuces and a few artichokes. Then there were the two outside gardens...You get the idea: lots of vegetables for visitors and us.

This year I hope to refurbish the old chicken house, another big job but it would make a nice storage and growing shed as the plan is to replace the old shingle roof with the plastic panels I saved from the old greenhouse. 

Clamming has been very good this past year, but not at Kalaloch since its razor clam population has dwindled the past few years to the point where its beaches are currently closed.  Maybe next year...But, luckily, Copalis, Moclips and Pacific Beach digs have been spectacular with lots of fat clams and numerous openings.  We usually dig at Moclips because it's the closest but all the beaches have been very productive.

Last spring's steelhead season was good when water conditions permitted and things were pretty busy on the local rivers since they represent what is probably the highest quality fishery left in our area.

Salmon fishing this past fall was excellent as we had another big run of coho as well as enough chinook to keep everyone on the edge of their seats when their rods bent sharply.

Hopefully, the re-paint of the Queets bridge will be completed by January.  This bridge had originally been painted with lead-based paint 28 years ago and required workers to remove, trap and dispose of the old paint prior to putting on the new coat.  The job began in June and was not quite finished at "press time".  Parking has been a little tricky while the heavy machinery connected to the job has been taking up the space usually used by sport anglers under the bridge.

Reservations for the coming year will be available January 1st and, again, if it's early spring steelhead fishing, fall  salmon fishing or prime summer dates you're after book your dates as early as possible so that you'll be in the catbird seat instead of another lucky party. Just go to www.clearwaterguesthouse.com or call: 253.759.8738. And, remember that my e-mail address has changed to joecwnovak@gmail.com.

Rates will remain the same as last year and the "spring special" will be in effect from April 16 through June 10.

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fall/winter rates*                                                                          summer rates*

(September 2-April 15)                                                              (June 11-September 1)

2 nights: $110                                                                                     2 nights: $125

3 nights: $155                                                                                     3 nights: $175

4 nights: $200                                                                                     4 nights: $230

5 nights: $245                                                                                     5 nights: $285

6 nights: $290                                                                                     6 nights: $340

7 nights: $335                                                                                     7 nights: $395

*Rates are based upon a maximum of 4 visitors.  Additional visitors add $5 per night each.   Returning visitors receive a 10% discount.  A $50 non-refundable deposit is due within one week of requesting dates.

Spring special: During our spring special period (April 16-June 10) visitors get three nights for the full price of 2.

Once again, thanks to all of you for helping to make the guesthouse a lively, yet peaceful refuge throughout the year.  We hope to see you soon.

                                                                        Joe Novak

This newsletter is sent only to folks who have either stayed at or inquired about the Clearwater Guesthouse.  If you would like to be removed from the list let me know and I'll quickly do.