Ah, Italy! Ancient ruins, century-old churches and basilicas, wonderful restaurants and markets, picture-book scenery, canals, rolling hills, vineyards as far as the eye can see, boutique wineries and friendly people. What’s not to like? Well, it all depends on when you go. If … read more

During the winter months, the best home improvement projects are those that involve indoor upgrades and focus on small details, which can make a big difference in how a room looks and feels. Winter is a particularly good time for kitchen, bathroom and … read more

Winter brings long, dark days, and historically humans have found ways to chase away the darkness. The tradition of festooning homes with evergreen boughs, berries and cones dates back to pagan times. In Europe, pre-Germanic people gathered evergreens because they are sturdy, last … read more

Need a few ideas for your holiday décor? Here are four ideas for adding a sentimental touch to your festivities using your favorite photos — or use these ideas for inspiration when you’re planning your next celebration. Set the “menu.” We all look … read more

A passion for gardening is often passed down from generation to generation, and for Dorene Fretwell, that is certainly true. Fretwell has been a certified Master Gardener since 2007 and has used her horticulture knowledge, creativity and intuition to create a beautiful woodland … read more

Frankly, it’s neither. While even entertaining the notion of an attempt at minimalism is panic-inducing for some, for others, the opportunity for the peace and simplicity it brings to the home and daily operations is just simply too tempting to ignore. The trend … read more

A not-to-be-missed holiday-season outing is the Kingston Lights on the green spaces surrounding the Port of Kingston building near the ferry terminal. It all begins on Saturday, Dec. 7, at 5 p.m. when Santa arrives on a North Kitsap Fire and Rescue truck. … read more

You love them both — your pets and houseplants — but it can be challenging to safely raise them together in the same house. Reduce the risk by selecting pet-safe plants and safely managing houseplant pest problems. Avoid problems by selecting plants suited to … read more

Chances are good that at some point during the holiday season, you’ll welcome guests into your home. Whether you lease or own your home, creating a cozy, festive setting for holiday gatherings can actually be quite simple, especially if you take on the … read more