So, you’ve done the research and bought the perfect gift, but now you want to add that extra-special touch? I’ve got the answer: wrapping paper! Getting creative with your gift wrapping game is a fun way to take a thoughtful gift from “wow” to “wooooow!” Here are a few ideas of how I like to […]
holidays
Posted inFood & Entertainment
How to Throw a Wine Party with Wow
Wine, food and music. These are the key elements of any great party and as the height of party season, you’ll want to get your party A game dialed in. First and foremost is wine. Select a few different bottles to complement the food you’ll be serving as well as to provide enough variety, so […]
Posted inAt Home
6 Tips for Avoiding Charity Scams
Charitable giving is a significant part of many people’s lives and budgets, especially during the holiday season, and individuals are often eager to give back and lend a helping hand to those in need. Unfortunately, not every organization seeking a donation is exactly what it claims to be. If you’re not careful, you could wind […]
Posted inFood & Entertainment
Gifts for Foodies
As societal trends move away from accumulating dust catchers and personal possessions, gifts of experiences and consumables become more appreciated. Fall and winter also bring attention indoors to warm and cozy kitchens fragrant with aromas of good things to eat. Those who love to cook frequently search out interesting ingredients to add to their creations, […]
Posted inFood & Entertainment
Olalla’s Magical Strings Family Celebrates 40 Years of Celtic Yuletide Concerts
For many West Sound families, the holiday season officially begins with Magical Strings’ annual Celtic Yuletide concert. Magical Strings is an internationally known musical family centered on the Celtic harp and hammered dulcimer of Olalla residents Philip and Pam Boulding. During the holidays and other special times, the ensemble also includes their five children and, […]
Posted inAt Home
12 Holiday Safety Tips for a No-Worries Noel
The fun, festive activities during the holiday season make it a favorite time of year for many people. At the risk of sounding like a Grinch, though, all that festivity can lead to unintentional safety hazards. For example, some 30 percent of all home fires and 38 percent of home fire deaths occur over December, […]
Posted inAt Home
Savor the Season with Comfort Foods
Few things go together quite like the holidays and comforting seasonal recipes. When time is short during the season’s hustle and bustle but you’re craving a savory meal, reach for an ingredient like READ German Potato Salad, which can be the shortcut you need to get Potato, Turkey and Veggie Casserole on the table quickly. […]
Posted inFood & Entertainment
Holiday Appetizer Soiree
Growing up in the ’50s and ’60s, Trudy Northover recalls her parents always hosting get-togethers for friends and family. Christmas was a massive celebration at their home. “Tech has taken so much away (web, email, etc.),” Northover says. “It’s such a gloomy time of year, so our appetizer party is a wonderful time to host […]
Posted inAt Home
Simple Sides for Holiday Entertaining
Like many hosts, you are likely searching for perfection in your holiday get-togethers. With an ever-expanding guest list, each year may seem more and more difficult to pull off the perfect gathering. Make things easier and still delicious by serving ready-to-eat options like refrigerated macaroni and cheese made with real milk and cheese. Here are […]