There are many reasons why people choose a nonalcoholic beverage at a restaurant, bar or party. Marnie Clark thinks it is a shame that the choice of nonalcoholic cocktails is limited to Shirley Temples; “virgin” daiquiris, margaritas and mojitos; iced tea and soft drinks. So, after searching unsuccessfully for special, nonalcoholic cocktails or celebratory beverages […]
Barb Bourscheidt
A Gig Harbor artist potter and community activist, Barb Bourscheidt is a freelance writer who writes on subjects of personal interest, usually the arts, gardening, cooking and the environment. A working artist, she creates pottery that reflects her love of nature, incorporating leaf motifs on surfaces of functional kitchen, garden and decorative ware. Although posts are infrequent, Barb has a personal blog at clayladybarb.blogspot.com.
Posted inBlog
Why Buy Organic? Part 1: Fruits and Vegetables
What is the big fuss about buying organic produce and organically grown meats, as opposed to those products that are conventionally grown? Budget-conscious buyers will usually opt for the lesser-priced option, which typically, but not always, is conventionally grown. Next to price, the problem becomes even more complex due to labeling and various standards for […]
Posted inFood & Entertainment
Empty Bowls Fight Hunger one Child at a Time
One Saturday each February, excitement builds as the line outside the Gig Harbor Boys & Girls Club lengthens and eager shoppers wait for the doors to finally open. At 11 a.m. sharp, the anxious crowd floods into the room and patrons scurry between large tables laden with glistening ceramic bowls. The fragrance of delicious warm […]
Posted inAt Home
Warming Winter Curry
There are as many different kinds of curries as there are cooks who prepare them. Once the basic sauce is prepared, nearly any combination of vegetables can be combined, meat added if desired, and a nutritious and delicious meal can be on the table in less than a half hour. Curry, which has become a […]
Posted inHome
A Home Full of Light and Life
Stepping into the foyer of Brian and Holly Jacobsen’s home and looking into the great room, one is struck by the amazing light flooding through the massive expanse of windows that face the water. White millwork and a well-chosen monochromatic color scheme of soft grays and blues offer a sense of cleanliness, peacefulness and serenity. […]
Posted inAt Home
Sweet Potatoes
Is it a sweet potato or a yam? Much confusion abounds as to whether they are the same thing or not, and what, if anything, is the difference. Unless you visit an ethnic-foods market that imports vegetables from Africa, it is doubtful that the long, red skinned tuber offered for sale is a yam. Yams […]
Posted inFood & Entertainment
McCloud’s Grill House
An affordable steakhouse with a relaxed atmosphere that welcomes families in a casual dining experience is a unique find in a restaurant. Andy Graham, the brains and energy behind McCloud’s “The No. 1 Steakhouse in Kitsap” tagline, has managed to create just that magical combination. Graham, a University of Washington business major who also has […]
Posted inHome
Olalla Mission-Style Home gets Modernized
In 2006, the couple knew they needed a life change to a place where summertime enjoyment out of doors in the evening was possible. Visiting friends in Gig Harbor, they discovered a climate and community that attracted them, and eventually started making an annual trek to the area. As they became more and more interested […]
Posted inAt Home
Enjoying the Fall Flavors of Apples
Who doesn’t love the sweet, juicy crunch of fall’s first apple? It is as if all of nature has concentrated the best days of summer and the cooling nights of fall into one beautiful red, shiny gift that makes us happy to be alive. According to the Washington Apple Commission, six out of 10 apples […]