Chocolate’s journey to becoming popularly associated with love and romance as a decadent indulgence began in Mesopotamia. Believing it had curative powers, the Mayan and Aztec upper classes consumed liquid chocolate mixed with additives such as cornmeal, vanilla and honey. Cacao beans became … read more

Local code ensures new construction homes and renovation projects reflect the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Universal design, on the other hand, does more than make living spaces more accessible for those with disabilities. It expands on regulations to create more … read more

Salads have been a raw and healthy staple since ancient Greece (Greek salad, anyone?), yet many people grow bored of the same tired salad bowl over and over. While it’s true you can spice up your ordinary salad by adding fresh fruits, vegetables … read more

The new year is an exciting time for Northwest rhododendron fans — it marks the beginning of the flowering season for these popular, well-loved shrubs. Even non-gardeners can recognize rhododendrons. What comes to mind when thinking about a rhododendron? For many people, it’s … read more

Model Tested: 2022 Toyota Sienna XSE Hybrid Engine: 2.5-liter I-4, 245 horsepower and 176 lb-ft torque Transmission: ECVT automatic, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 36-mpg city, 36-mpg highway, 36-mpg highway Base Price: $42,100 As Tested: $46,455 Performance: Impressive fuel economy for its size Our best … read more

Model Tested: 2022 Honda Civic 1.5T 4D Touring Engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged I-4, 180 horsepower and 177 lb-ft torque Transmission: CVT automatic, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 31-mpg city, 38-mpg highway, 34-mpg combined Base Price: $28,300 As Tested: $29,690 Performance: Good performance from the diminutive 1.5-liter … read more

One of the easiest ways to warm up at the end of a winter day — both inside and out — is by sharing a comforting meal with loved ones. Getting your whole family to the table can be surprisingly easy when a … read more

The mystical, magical garden created by Arlene and Bill West inspires awe and an explosion of ideas in the minds of all who visit. Solutions for gardening in “next-to-impossible” places, intermingled with expressive, original and imaginative garden art could fill a book. Here … read more

“Backyarding,” the trend to move indoor activities outdoors that was made popular during the pandemic, is here to stay and will continue to expand this year, according to the TurfMutt Foundation, an environmental education and stewardship program that encourages outdoor living and caring … read more