In the fall of 2021, Jeannie Kay O’Reilly was seeking a place of renewal. She found the perfect location in Indianola, but the lot was mostly lawn. While there was a terrific view of Miller Bay, the longed-for flowers and planted garden beds were lacking. She was “mostly retired” and was looking for a space […]
beach
Posted inHome
The Past Meets the New
After living on Mercer Island for 35 years, Jack Paauw and Susan Gates were ready to make a move. For a few years, Paauw had been commuting to a Kitsap-based job on the fast ferry, so he couldn’t wait for a shorter commute. Hoping for a waterfront property, the couple eventually found what they were […]
Posted inGarden
This Poorly Named Shorebird is an Attention Catcher
Birds are amazing creatures with a variety of adaptations. A hummingbird is quite different from an ostrich and a kiwi has little in common with a swan. While some species may seem drab and uninteresting, others are a collection of unique features that even a nonbirder would notice. Here in West Sound, resident birds may […]
Posted inPeople & Places
Seabrook — A Bucolic Destination on the Washington Coast
After the three-hour drive from Kingston through vast differences in topography and aged towns, Seabrook almost jolts you awake, exuding charm, fresh ocean air and a pretty, decidedly Nantucket look. The first exploration downtown uncovers immaculate streets, cute stores and smiles. As you make your first drive around the 500-plus home village, you experience the […]
Posted inFood & Entertainment
Holidays in the ‘Hood
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 — like your neighbors in the know — will look for opportunities […]
Posted inHome
A Vinland Midcentury-Modern Home Spreads Its Wings
Three years ago, Jeff and Ann Granlee were looking for waterfront. Fortunately, word of mouth and a real estate agent who kept her ears open lead them to a pretty piece of Hood Canal shoreline just south of Vinland Bay in North Kitsap. The property included a home that had begun as a cabin in […]
Posted inGarden
Beachfront Gardens
One of the joys of West Sound living is the availability of so many beachfront properties. With all the islands, inlets, coves and harbors, there are miles and miles of beachfront. Smart ecology demands that a large part of water-side property be left for natural areas and parks. In the past, many developers have harmed […]
Posted inHome
Remodeling During Unusual Times
While 2020 might have been the hardest and longest year in recent history for many people, “hard” took on a whole new meaning for the Huffmans. This family of four had been searching two years for a waterfront home on Bainbridge Island in Poulsbo, Indianola or Suquamish, and toured so many houses with their faithful […]
Posted inPeople & Places
A Day Trip to Harstine Island
“Suri is the Bengal tiger. Tabbi is the Bengal/Siberian hybrid,” a felid-savvy guide introduces the two wild cats. “Your smells and movements are new so you’re part of today’s enrichment. It’s good for them.” Suri (at nearly 300 pounds) studies visitors through the fencing. “In the wild, they eat primarily deer and wild pigs,” the […]
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