In the Victorian era of the 1800s, there began a fad called “pteridomania” or “fern fever,” referring to a huge popularity of all things pteridological. “Pterido” is from the ancient Greek word pteris for fern. Back then, the craze involved more than just collecting ferns, but also the incorporation of the fern motif as decoration […]
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The Cryptic Bird of Summer Twilight
Numerous species of migratory birds breed in West Sound. Many travel thousands of miles from wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America. The later a bird arrives, the farther it has traveled. These species, called long-distance migrants, sometimes spend the nonbreeding season in the Southern Hemisphere. It may seem strange that some birds spend several […]
Two Recipes for Adding Seafood to Summer Meals
Grilled meals provide a summer escape for many families by offering opportunities to spend moments together while enjoying flavorful dishes. As Americans face uncertainty in many aspects of life, one place they should be able to turn to for normalcy is food. One option that checks boxes including comfort, fun, taste and variety: seafood. As […]
Five Simple Ways to Bring Calm into Your Home
From the global devastation of COVID-19 to the national grief, horror and widespread protests set off by the killing of George Floyd, the world is reeling with chaos. No wonder waves of fear, pain and uncertainty are infiltrating our thoughts and emotions — and thus, our homes. We’re witnessing the most disease the world has […]
4 Simple Steps to an Organic Backyard
Because everyone is spending more time in their own backyards now, parents are wondering how to create healthier lawns for their families. You might be surprised to learn that exposure to pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers can be harmful, particularly for growing children. This is why flags are posted after a yard is treated — […]
Turn your Summer Vacation into a Relaxing Staycation
Does social distancing have you worried about your summer plans? For many, summer is the time for the family vacation. The kids are out of school, the weather is fantastic, and the days are longer — allowing optimal time to venture to new places, catch some sun and spend more time with friends and family. […]
Don’t Ignore Heart Attack Symptoms, Even During COVID-19
It’s your heart. Don’t hesitate. If you’re experiencing symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, doctors urge you to not delay seeking treatment because of COVID-19 concerns. During the COVID-19 pandemic, doctors across the nation are reporting a sharp decline in patients coming to the hospital for heart attacks and strokes. These conditions don’t stop […]
Tips for Decluttering, Deep Cleaning and Feng Shui
Now that a lot of people are confined to their homes and apartments, design experts at Hausera, a newly launched online kitchen and bath retailer, say this is a great time to clean, organize and freshen up your space to make sure it’s as calm and relaxing as possible. Below are a few ways they recommend […]
Comfort Food on a Chilly Day
Spring may be right around the corner and the sun bright against a brilliant blue sky, but it is still 41 degrees on the front porch and much cooler in the shade or when a breeze wafts through the yard. My spirit wants to garden, my flesh resists, and people of my age are being […]
