I am not a mason bee expert but I recognize and benefit from their hard work during rainy weather. A few years ago, my strawberries were seedy and not uniformly plump and succulent, so I contacted my local Master Gardener for ideas about … read more

Editor’s note: This is a follow-up to Melissa Michaels’ “Inspire Your Rooms” tips—read them here. The excerpt was adapted from her book, “Simple Decorating: 50 Ways to Inspire Your Home,” published by Harvest House Publishers, Eugene, Oregon. Used by permission. What do you … read more

A limited number of birds nest in birdhouses. Most of those attracted to feeders, as well as those that aren’t, choose nest sites other than a man-made birdhouse. Robins are one of these. They do, however, often choose a nest site within close … read more

French painter Claude Monet was an accomplished early proponent. So was his compatriot August Renoir. Because French Impressionist painters were the ones who took the act of painting out of stuffy French drawing rooms and studios and into the great outdoors, the art … read more

A magnificent vista to Mount Rainier inspired Kathy and Dave Nims to purchase their property without ever having stepped foot on it. That leap of faith was well worth the effort. This view served as inspiration for architect David Fisher and contractor Tom … read more

The thought of moving or dealing with years’ worth of accumulations of personal belongings can strike fear into the hearts of many. In fact, I am quite certain the mere thought has prevented a large number of folks from even attempting it. Like … read more

It may still be drizzling outside but there’s no doubt the lawn needs attention. If you’re getting ready to get out your lawn mower, trimmer, leaf blower, chain saw, pruner or other piece of outdoor power equipment, here are some tips from the … read more

More than a few trees in this region owe their lives to a man in a quiet neighborhood on Bainbridge Island. Well, not just the West Sound, but elsewhere in the country. And the world. And not just trees but a few pumpkins … read more

There’s a new game in town. “Poulsbo-opoly” is in the house. Or rather, at Hill Moving & Storage, which graciously agreed to store 1,000 of these limited-edition games. Yes, it’s just like that game that we have all played before. But this time … read more