Summer is in full swing, and with it come backyard cookouts, camping trips and picnics. Unfortunately, these outings and get-togethers also include the generation of copious amounts of waste. Disposable plates, cutlery, cups and paper towels are just a few of the common wastes generated at your typical cookout or party, because we do 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.
Posted inBlog, The Outdoors
Tips for Successful Salmon Fishing
Through summer and into fall, salmon begin their annual migrations to their natal streams for spawning. July and August angling is focused on chinook (kings) and coho (silvers) and in odd numbered years, pinks (humpies). Being an even-numbered year, pinks are not available in substantial numbers so it’s a king and silver show this year. […]
Posted inAt Home, Blog
How to Properly Clean Your Shower Liner
If your vinyl shower curtain liner has developed black spots, especially in some of the folds, it is probably mildew rather than dirt. It’s perfectly OK to wash it in your washer. Most good-quality vinyl shower curtain liners will survive years of washing. This method works very well with top load washers. Our first attempt […]
Posted inBlog, Gardeners Corner
Staying One Step Ahead of Your Garden so You Can Enjoy It
As the days of summer heat up, the last thing we want to do is work hard in the garden. This is the time to enjoy it, play in the sprinklers and hang out with friends. Here are a few tips to help you reach this nirvana. Mulch Hopefully you took some time this spring, […]
Posted inBlog, The Outdoors
July and August Mean Crab For West Sound Anglers
There are reasons those of us living in Western Washington manage to endure the interminably short, gray and damp days of winter and early spring, and for many of us, it’s the memory of summers past and the promise of the summer to come. And let’s face it, summer really does begin in July and […]
Posted inAt Home, Blog
Planning for Your Future Needs with ‘Aging in Place’ Strategies in Your New Home or Remodel
Recently we began work on a home design for a newlywed couple who are starting their life together by building a home. And, they want it to be one that they can live in for a very long time. Smart thinking, as you never know what could happen, even temporarily, that might make it difficult […]
Posted inAt Home, Blog
How to Restore Indoor Teak Furniture — Part 2
It is best to leave outdoor teak tables, chairs and benches unfinished and sanded to weather to a beautiful silvery-grey color (as shown in this photo). But if your indoor teak furniture, especially a table top, has been exposed to sunlight for several years, it probably has a rougher feel due to the grain being […]
Posted inAround West Sound, Blog
Enjoying a Saturday at the Port Orchard Gallery Walk
Last summer was a bummer. It seemed that all the Kitsap County gallery walks and festivals were on a first Friday of the month, so attendance was severely divided. Happy to say, “Not so this summer.” My husband, Earl, and I decided to take in Port Orchard’s Art Walk, which is the first Saturday of […]
Posted inBlog, Gardeners Corner
Rain Gardens Add Beauty and Function to Your Yard
Controlling storm-water runoff is a necessity for your home and your yard, but it’s sometimes relegated to that dreaded list of outdoor chores. But what if adding an efficient runoff system meant the addition of a beautiful garden at the same time? That’s exactly what rain gardens are. They’re designed to store and filter rain […]