Every year, we gather our panel of design experts to discuss some of the hottest design trends. In 2024, expect to see natural-looking finishes, natural materials like wood, and more recycled and upcycled choices for the environmentally conscious. Comfort is the key for families. A “must-have” is gathering areas, where you can meet and converse […]
kitchen
Posted inHome
Touring German Haus Fair 2023 with the National Kitchen & Bath Association
Foreign travel is great for sparking a designer’s creative juices; however, mixing business with pleasure can be the ultimate reward. In that vein, I have made a point of attending kitchen and bath industry trade shows on a regular basis in North America and Europe. This year, I was selected by the National Kitchen & […]
Posted inHome
A Timeless Dream of Home
This home grew from humble beginnings. The lady of the manor says her husband is a man of vision who has infinite energy from his excitement about life. They began their marriage in a tiny, 750-square-foot home in Puyallup, with the garage serving as the man’s office. Their first son was brought home to this […]
Posted inAt Home
Recipe for French Toast Casserole
On a cool, crisp morning, it’s hard to beat an exciting twist on a breakfast classic. This French Toast Casserole is crisp on top while soft and moist in the middle, coming fresh out of the oven with the aroma of maple syrup and pecans that will have the whole house eager for a bite. […]
Posted inAt Home
Recipe for Filled Pumpkin Pie Spice Doughnuts
Nothing evokes the spirit of the holidays more powerfully than the hearty aroma of seasonal dishes and treats. To help you share in the joy, nostalgia and tastes of the season, while making meaningful new memories, the McCormick brand is putting twists on classic favorites with its recent release of a limited-edition collection of holiday-themed […]
Posted inFood & Entertainment
Figgy Pudding
“Oh bring us some figgy pudding, and bring it right here!” Those familiar with the ancient traditional Christmas song, “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” will recognize the second verse asking for figgy pudding. What is figgy pudding, and why is it included in a Christmas carol? In the 14th century, figgy pudding was a […]
Posted inAt Home
Recipe for Bourbon Bacon Pecan Pie
When Thanksgiving hosts and their guests ponder must-have desserts, one of the most common favorites is an oh-so-delicious pie. More specifically, with nearly endless possibilities and its familiar festive flavor, pecan pie is one of America’s most beloved holiday treats. When it comes to pecans, great taste is just the beginning. They’re the ultimate supernut […]
Posted inHome
Grandma’s Dishes
Availability, trend, need and definition will determine the future of “thrifting,” which is primarily looking for used items. Today, the activity is enormous in many directions, but tomorrow may be a different story. My expertise began in the ’70s, when I was teaching drawing and design at Olympic College, was an active journeyman plumber and […]
Posted inFood & Entertainment
The Immortal, Secret Life of Fruitcake
Late-night talk show hosts Johnny Carson and Jay Leno called it the worst Christmas gift ever. NASA thought it was good enough for astronauts. Emily Dickinson packed it with half a pint of brandy (and 19 eggs) and gifted it to her delighted neighbors. British royals have turned it into an elaborate, grandiose part of […]