The Kitsap Peninsula offers a retreat for those seeking a memorable vacation or a casual, low-key getaway. When family and friends from out of town visit, you can make the most of their time by touring around the area, enjoying popular activities and hidden gems alike. All it takes is a touch of thoughtful planning […]
outdoors
Posted inGarden
This Blackbird Is a Beauty, Not a Black Sheep
Like people, birds are sometimes unappreciated and misunderstood. While every species has its place in the ecosystem, some are bigger stars than others. Beach lovers would gladly trade a flock of “seagulls” for hummingbirds. Yet gulls, not hummingbirds, scavenge smelly carcasses from the beach. Some dislike barn swallows for leaving messy droppings under their nests. […]
Posted inPeople & Places
Ride the Tide
Celebrating the 10-year anniversary of the Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trails designation with the “Ride the Tide” event, Kitsap County Commissioner Christine Rolfes joined over 100 paddlers on a scenic journey from Dyes Inlet at the Silverdale waterfront to Port Orchard Waterfront Park in Sinclair Inlet. The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners proclaimed June 8 […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
A Winter Season of Colorful Amaryllis Blooms
This winter, brighten your mood and surroundings by planting and growing a few amaryllis. Your thoughts may turn to red when considering this plant, but now you can find a variety of colors and flower shapes. Select the color that best suits your mood and indoor décor. Fill your home with these beauties for the […]
Posted inHome
Building a Luxury Outdoor Kitchen
When it comes to spending quality time with family and friends, it’s hard to beat the outdoors. Whether it’s hiking, camping, golfing or just sitting around a fire, the outdoor experience is the perfect backdrop for creating amazing memories with those you love. This is especially true when you get to share a meal together. […]
Posted inGarden
Fall Cleaning and Maintenance Tips for Mason Bee Hotels
The Pacific Northwest is home to the native blue orchard mason bees. Often mistaken for houseflies due to their blue-green, iridescent bodies, these solitary bees are distinct from social bees because each female independently lays her own eggs, finds her own nest and gathers her own food. With 90% of bee species being solitary, these […]
Posted inPeople & Places
Olalla Lavender Festival
The new Olalla Lavender Festival, which took place in July, concluded with overwhelming success, drawing more than 1,300 visitors to the picturesque community of Olalla. The festival brought together local artisans, farmers, families and lavender enthusiasts for a memorable celebration of nature’s beauty. The festival spanned seven venues and featured a diverse array of activities, […]
Posted inGarden
The European Country-House Garden of Liz Robinson
In the Fort Ward district of Bainbridge Island is a garden filled with history. In 1973, a property became available that had once been a Fort Ward warehouse. Liz Robinson and her husband, Peter, were living in a farmhouse they had renovated on the island. Their children were now adults. Presented with this opportunity and […]
Posted inPeople & Places
Hansville Garden Tour
The Annual Hansville Garden Tour took place in July. Six gardens were featured in this self-guided tour. This annual event benefits Hansville Helping Hands, which maintains the Hansville Cemetery and assists Hansville residents in need. Attendees delighted in touring Fat Turnip Farms, Lighthouse View Garden, Fairy Garden, Maple Madness Garden and the Greenhouse Garden.