Creating memorable moments and special meals with friends and family during the holiday season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. While these festivities are often a favorite moment each year, the planning and preparation can be a bear for hosts. To help take some stress out of hosting duties, start with what you likely already have […]
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The West Sound Magazine blog is your destination for information and tips about living in West Sound — home, gardening, outdoor recreation, things to do and more.
Sharing a Sense of Belonging at Our Holiday Tables
In the Pacific Northwest, November holds the place between the radiant golden hues of fall and the wet gray scale of winter. With it comes the official entry to the year-end holiday season and its annual themes of gratitude and generosity. Nostalgia arrives as well. As it’s nearly impossible to go about the present preparations […]
Home Safety Measures to Keep Your Seasonal Celebrations Joyful
The holiday season brings a sense of excitement and togetherness, but preparing for lively gatherings or traveling can present distinctive safety challenges. “Anyone preparing for guests should be mindful of how they organize their celebrations and understand the coverage provided by their insurance policies,” said Bonnie Lee, vice president of Property Claims for Mercury Insurance. […]
Recipe for Hickory Smoked Spiral Sliced Ham with Bourbon, Honey and Orange Glaze
Whether you’re hosting a large holiday gathering or simply savoring the season with those nearest and dearest, serving up flavorful dishes your friends and family will love is key to bringing everyone together. With a full portfolio to choose from, you can shake up your meals all throughout the season using inspiration and premium products […]
Remembering Lary Coppola, Wet Apple Media CEO
Lary Coppola, Wet Apple Media’s chief executive officer, died on Sept. 30, 2023, at age 73 after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. A longtime Manchester resident, Coppola was a prominent business and civic leader and a pillar of his community. His professional and personal legacy includes an impact on numerous individuals’ lives, as well […]
How to Use the Holiday Spirit to Instill Meaningful Values in Children
As Thanksgiving approaches, hearts are filled with warmth and the spirit of giving. It’s a time to cherish moments with loved ones and reflect on all of life’s positive aspects. While it’s common for families to focus on turkey feasts and football games this time of year, there’s a deeper layer that is often overlooked […]
Keeping Tropical Plants Healthy
Tropical plants are filling our homes and workspaces, adding beauty, relieving stress and boosting creativity, productivity and focus. Keep these plants healthy and looking their best by providing for their basic needs. Select plants that will thrive in the growing conditions found in your home or office and with your level of care. Busy gardeners […]
Taco Casserole Recipe for a No-Fuss, Weeknight Dinner
Whether it’s shuttling the little ones to their afterschool activities or helping older students cram for their exams, families get super busy when the kids are in school. But that doesn’t mean you can’t regularly sit down together for weeknight dinners. “Parent-chefs can effortlessly turn up the flavor by relying on single-use spice packets. They […]
Exploring Hybrid Heating as an Alternative for Your Home
As temperatures dip, homeowners are shifting their attention to keeping their indoor spaces comfortable during the cooler months. However, many conventional heating and cooling systems can be very inefficient to operate, causing your utility bill to soar — especially in the winter. What’s the solution to creating a comfortable home that’s also energy-efficient and supports […]
