Wyn and Steve Abbott live on a piece of land in Hansville that was described as “The Fairy Tale Garden” on the 2024 Hansville Helping Hands tour. Its name is perhaps appropriate in more than one way. Both Abbotts create magic, not only with their gardening efforts, but with their own artistic and creative talents. […]
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Posted inPeople & Places
The Freedom to Create
Creativity is in each of us, but sometimes we must find our way to it. It may seem unlikely that a bank examiner who is required to use her skills of exactness, ensuring that banks are complying with laws, attention to detail in studying documents, and reviewing policies and procedures would be able to tap […]
Posted inGarden
Gardens — An Invitation to Happiness
Perhaps one of the best joys of gardening is when a gardener finds that new struggling little sprout that’s choking under too many weeds and she frees it — and within a day, it’s growing straight, reaching into new summer sun. Little joys like this one are abundant stories coming forth from the gardeners of […]
Posted inHome
The Color-Coded Closet
Imagine stepping into your closet each morning and feeling instantly inspired. Every piece of clothing works together effortlessly, creating a wardrobe that feels cohesive, stylish and — most importantly — uniquely you. This is the power of organizing your closet using color analysis, a system that not only streamlines your wardrobe but also ensures that […]
Posted inAt Home
5 Quick Tips for Garage Safety
When you throw open the windows, you’ll likely be spending more time with the garage door open, too. Make access to your outdoor equipment safer with these tips to get your garage ready for the warmer months. Organizing clutter is part of the process, but warmer weather can also serve as a reminder to make […]
Posted inGarden
Jeannie Kay O’Reilly’s Indianola Secret
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 […]
Posted inHome
Trends From the 2025 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show
In February, the Las Vegas Convention Center was the site of Design and Construction Week, a combined trade show of the National Association of Home Builders International Builders Show and the National Kitchen and Bath Association’s Kitchen and Bath Industry Show. The combined shows covered 1.2 million total square feet of indoor and outdoor display […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Dahlia Combinations for Gardens and Bouquets
Dahlias come in various colors, shapes and sizes, making them easy to include in any garden, container and bouquet. Grow them in their own dedicated space, mix them with other flowers or plant a few at the end of the vegetable garden. Consider including different varieties of dahlias for added interest and beauty in the […]
Posted inGarden
A Garden of Pure Joy
The American poet Theodore Roethke stated, “Great Nature has another thing to do / To you and me; so take the lively air / And, Lovely, learn by going where to go.” When you wander into Donna and Tom Torrens’ Gig Harbor garden — with its breathtaking view of the harbor and Mount Rainier, even […]