Food & Entertainment
Barb's Open Kitchen
Induction cooktops are taking the food-preparation appliance market by storm. Nearly every cooktop manufacturer — from the high-end La Cornue range models that cost thousands of dollars, to small portable single-burners for RVs and restaurants selling for only $100 or so — is … read more
The Sip
In the realm of wine, the notion of boxed vino has come a long way from the days of subpar quality and questionable taste. Gone are the times when boxed wine was considered the bottom shelf of the wine aisle, hidden away from … read more
The Sip
As winter blankets the Pacific Northwest, there’s something truly magical about sipping on a glass of wine fireside, indulging in the warmth and richness that only this season can bring. From robust cabernet sauvignon to velvety merlot and buttery chardonnay, these wines capture … read more
Barb's Open Kitchen
Kitchen shops and big-box stores feature a virtual cornucopia of laborsaving, timesaving appliances for the home cook. Perhaps the most popular appliance is the countertop stand mixer, a veritable workhorse that whips, kneads and beats doughs of every description. In addition, many manufacturers … read more
The Sip
There’s something about bubbles that makes things seem more festive. Especially around the holidays. When gathering with friends and family to toast the season, grab a glass of bubbly! Washington state is home to over 1,000 wineries, and many of them produce amazing … read more
Holidays sweets may be one of the best ways to put a smile on someone’s face. Hopefully, buying and eating the treats recommended in this article will make you, your friends and your loved ones smile, no matter where you live in West … read more
Barb's Open Kitchen
“Oh bring us some figgy pudding, and bring it right here!” Those familiar with the ancient traditional Christmas song, “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” will recognize the second verse asking for figgy pudding. What is figgy pudding, and why is it included … read more
Late-night talk show hosts Johnny Carson and Jay Leno called it the worst Christmas gift ever. NASA thought it was good enough for astronauts. Emily Dickinson packed it with half a pint of brandy (and 19 eggs) and gifted it to her delighted … read more
Alderbrook Resort & Spa is a gem of hospitality set on the south shore of Hood Canal right here in our neighborhood. Special occasions or simple afternoons on the canal remind us of the splendor of our ‘hood. Once you discover Alderbrook, you … read more