During the weeks after Thanksgiving, I saw numerous trees on top of cars and in pickup trucks — heading home for their two to four weeks of glory, decorated as the family or office Christmas tree. The sadder side of this story is … read more

Baking a traditional Christmas bread every year keeps us connected to our family traditions, dear friends and loving memories. My family had established Christmas traditions, such as making Grandma’s old-fashioned fruitcake on Thanksgiving Friday, eating oyster stew on Christmas Eve, and gobbling cookies … read more

For children all ages, there’s no more magical time of year than Christmas. There are twinkling trees, glistening snowflakes (maybe), flying reindeer, tree decorating, favorite Christmas music and baked cookies that make the whole house smell like a childhood memory. And don’t forget … read more

Any time of the year, the home of Tom and Donna Torrens is an eye-catching affair. Sitting on 7 1/2 wooded acres in the Artondale area of Gig Harbor, the house and grounds are liberally sprinkled with Tom’s metal and wood sculptures, including … read more

Getting through the holidays with ease and grace is no small feat. With the endless invitations, family coming in from out of town, extra spending and overindulgences, it can be somewhat stressful to navigate successfully. Here are five simple ways to decrease stress, … read more

A holiday-ready home is filled with small touches that celebrate the season. Extend a warm greeting to your guests with a faux fur wreath that dresses up the front door, such as this design from the crafting experts at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores. … read more

You’ve invited all the guests, planned menus and then you realize that it might be nice to do some little fix-ups around the house. Don’t fret, there are lots of little things you can do to make your house look fresh and sparkle … read more

If you are looking for a fun, low-key way to get into the Christmas spirit, I have an idea for you. Check out the Bethlehem Experience at Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church on Bainbridge Island on Friday, Dec. 5 or Saturday, Dec. 6. It’s … read more

Rooflines outlined with fairy lights, porches festooned with pine and cedar garlands, and holly bushes brightly displaying their red winter berries remind us the holidays are fast approaching. Nothing says “Christmas” like a beautiful pine or fir tree, laden with shiny glass balls, … read more