Always a monster, never otherwise — huge, intrusive and unexpectedly frightening. “OK, Google, define the word frightening.” “Frighten, alarm, scare, terrify, appall, to arouse fear in people. To frighten is to shock with sudden, startling, but short-lived fear.” Suppose it would apply here, … read more

Stroll around the grounds of Bay Hay & Feed on Bainbridge Island and you get the sense of walking back in time. It’s like visiting an old-fashioned country store, with a modern twist. There’s a nursery and greenhouse, filled with about every plant … read more

Jim Sund may be a familiar name or face to many around West Sound, but especially in North Kitsap. The retired owner of North Kitsap Auto Rebuild in Poulsbo, Sund is a longtime community volunteer who’s been serving on the boards of several … read more

Patsy Surh O’Connell’s life is filled with art. She has studied, taught and created art since she was a child, and has won so many awards for her artwork that she has lost count. As a 4-year-old in Korea, she started “scratching and … read more

If you want to feel good about the world, drive to Poulsbo and spend some time visiting Martha & Mary, a unique organization where kids get their start in life and seniors find a caring and peaceful place to spend the last part … read more

Editor’s note: This is the second part of an excerpt adapted from hiking expert Susan Elderkin’s book, “Best Hikes With Kids: Western Washington” (Mountaineers Books, April 2018). Enjoy exploring the region’s hikes with your little ones — these are the perfect spots for … read more

A cancer diagnosis is a ticket to a place no one wants to go. The path is uncertain, the effort exhausting, and the itinerary largely out of our control. Aside from immediate concerns such as reviewing treatment options and coverage for medical costs, … read more

The name means “shining” or “glittering island.” Sri Lanka. When you step off the plane in Sri Lanka, you’ll know you are on a tropical island. The air is perfumed with the scent of tropical flowers and pungent spices like turmeric, cinnamon and … read more

A tradition dating back a hundred years, summer camping is the quintessential family experience. For some, it’s the allure of a cheap getaway, as far as vacations go. For others, what makes the idea appealing is the promise that at the end of … read more