Rising real estate values and increasing rents have stretched budgets for homebuyers and renters over the last two years. The median home sales price in the United States jumped by nearly $100,000 from the first quarter of 2020 to the first quarter of 2022 amid low interest rates and a stronger-than-expected pandemic economy. Rents were […]
Featured
Featured Articles from the West Sound. These are the highlighted articles from WestSound Magazine.
The Ubiquitous Zucchini
Although this column generally deals with something baked or sweet, this month — in acknowledgment that nearly everyone already has a favorite zucchini bread recipe — it includes a couple of savory dishes that can be served for a summery brunch, lunch or dinner. The ubiquitous zucchini is tasty, nutritious, versatile and prolific. Did you […]
Recipe for Greek Chicken Fried Rice
Taking the stress out of family meals at home can be as simple as turning your attention toward recipes that pack plenty of flavor without complicated prep. In fact, you can even turn an easy, everyday side dish into a full-blown dinner by simply adding your favorite protein. This Greek Chicken Fried Rice, for example, […]
‘Playable Art’
The Verksted Gallery in Poulsbo is home to many talented artists, including Bob Rau. He creates what he calls “playable art.” That is, he builds musical instruments out of beautiful cigar boxes. This artistic craft bloomed during his retirement. He worked as an engineer for a marine construction company, retiring in 2013. Then, Rau says, […]
5 Reasons Composting is Essential and Key Tips for Success
Approximately one-third of food worldwide is thrown away, with the vast majority ending up in the landfill. One way we can fix this issue, beyond only buying what we need, is to start composting food waste and other organic matter. While many think compost is simply a soil add-in used to create bountiful gardens, it’s […]
Tips to Attract Buyers When Selling Your Home
Preparing your home for sale may start with ideas for staging the house or spackling and painting over nail holes; however, it also requires a considerable amount of planning and organization. Before opening your home to tours, either virtual or in person, be aware of what buyers might notice. “Getting your home ready for sale […]
The Art of Fine Dining at Agate Restaurant
At 3:45 p.m. on a weekday afternoon, Agate Restaurant is abuzz with staff preparing for the doors to open at 4:30 p.m. Napkins and silver are freshly rolled and carefully placed on each gleaming table, along with water glasses and candles. As the bartender readies his space, the tinkling of bottles and glasses mixes with […]
Recipe for Cheesecake Ice Cream with Fruit Swirls
Spending precious moments enjoying outdoor meals with family and friends is part of what makes warm weather get-togethers so special. Take those al fresco occasions to the next level with a favorite dessert: ice cream. Homemade ice cream is a hallmark of many family events from birthday celebrations and pool parties to warm weather holidays […]
A Dream Home Remodel
Joyce and Brian Boettcher lived in their split-level home for 27 years, working and raising two children. Keeping up with the day’s demand was their main focus — even as a myriad of home inefficiencies piled up that they had no time to remedy. As Joyce says, “When you have time, you dream.” Their dream […]

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