“When the pandemic hit, I decided to plant a vegetable garden.” I’ve heard this from consultation clients and Plantrama listeners for the past three months, and my response is always the same. “Congratulations! You made a terrific choice.” I recognize that the stress of the COVID-19 crisis can easily prompt people to eat sweets or […]
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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.
Posted inAt Home
Things to Do This Summer: Make a (Virtual) ‘Visit’ to the Smithsonian
If you are looking for new things to this summer do while staying home or social distancing, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian has you covered. The museum has lots of free content available for both adults and kids, including digital learning tools for students of all ages and online versions of many […]
Posted inAt Home
4 Steps for Developing a Thoughtful Estate Plan
Many people may avoid estate planning because they think it can be put off until later in life. But experts agree that adults of any age should have a plan in place to make sure their financial affairs are in order after they pass on or in case they are incapacitated. A complete and thoughtful […]
Posted inAuto Talk
Getting Ready to Drive Again? Check Your Car for These Three Things First
As restrictions are being loosened up on stay-at-home orders, so you may be ready to finally take the family on a road trip or return to work. Since your car may have sat relatively idle over the last few months, the following tips can help ensure your vehicle is ready when you are — while […]
Posted inAt Home
Recipe for a Delightful Family Dessert
Make family meals part of your home by digging into kid-friendly desserts like these Cheesecake Cupcakes with Oat and Walnut Crust, and join the Family Meals Movement, which encourages Americans to pledge to share one more family breakfast, lunch or dinner at home per week. Find tips, recipes and ways to increase your family meal […]
Posted inAt Home
At-Home Learning Strategies for Summer Break
As time away from the classroom extends into summer, parents face the challenge of helping their children maintain what they’ve learned through a summer of uncertainty. Fortunately, this year’s shift to at-home learning has provided plenty of resources parents can use to keep their children’s minds engaged and actively learning. The shift has also prompted […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Tips for Planting, Growing and Caring for a Container Garden
Container gardens are a viable and popular cultivation option, especially for those who have limited sun-exposed spaces or are looking to start small and learn the basics of gardening. “Containers, whether bought or recycled, are a great place to plant herb and vegetable gardens,” says landscape designer Doug Scott of Redeem Your Ground in Atlanta, […]
Posted inCommunity News
Gig Harbor ‘Bands Together’ to Support Small Businesses through Virtual Concerts
The Greater Gig Harbor Foundation, the City of Gig Harbor, Uptown Gig Harbor and local musicians have teamed up to support local businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting July 19, you can livestream virtual musical performances on Friday a part of Band Together: Small Business Relief Concert Series, a communitywide relief effort fueled by […]
Posted inAt Home
A Recipe for a Creamy Complement for Summer Steaks
When it’s time to fire up the grill this summer for an all-American classic, you can take steak to the next level by pairing it with a creamy sauce that delivers a kick. This Horseradish and Chive Sauce is the ideal complement for juicy steak; try making a day in advance to allow the flavors […]