When midsummer temperatures rise, no one wants to heat up the house by turning on the oven, but an enjoyable alternative can be baking on the barbecue grill. With just a little time spent learning how to regulate the temperature on the grill, everything from pies, cobblers and cookies to cakes can be successfully baked […]
outdoors
Enjoying Gig Harbor from an Authentic Venetian Gondola
The shiny, sleek black boats being piloted around Gig Harbor are authentic vessels imported from Venice, Italy. Gondoliers John “Cinque” Synco and business partner Greg Garite even order their “uniform” striped shirts and straw hats from Venice. The pair wish to pay homage to the traditions of the Venetian gondola industry and also support the […]
Keep Plants Thriving Despite the Heat of Summer
Above-normal summer temperatures have been common in the last few years in many regions of the country, taking a toll on gardeners and landscapes. Adjusting how you manage your gardens and landscape can help plants thrive as temperatures rise. Water plants thoroughly to promote deep, drought-tolerant roots that help boost the plants’ pest resistance. Wait […]
Attracting Pollinators to Your Garden
Hummingbirds, butterflies and bees! Sadly, there has been a decline in the health of our pollinators, and it’s important for gardeners to create a pollinator-friendly garden. You will need to provide blooming plants, which is their food source; shelter in the form of large-leaved shrubs, trees and tall grasses; and water to encourage their survival. […]
How to Grow a Superfood Garden
Most of us know about superfoods –– those berries and veggies that bulk up our immune systems to keep us healthy. But how can you grow a superfood garden? We’ll show you. What are Superfoods? Harvard University and the Mayo Clinic describe superfoods as being rich in vitamins, antioxidants, fiber, minerals, healthy fats and flavonoids. […]
Designing for Outdoor Entertaining
Now more than ever, homeowners are acquainting themselves with their home’s outdoor spaces in an endeavor to expand their living space and to enhance their quality of life. Historically, many homeowners opted to de-stress and connect with nature away from home and to entertain family and friends at restaurants and other hospitality venues. However, there […]
Five Simple Games to Keep Young Kids Moving and Learning
Everybody, no matter their age, can benefit from daily physical activity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), young children should be physically active throughout the day for growth and development. Despite the common misconception that children are in perpetual motion, the CDC reminds caregivers to encourage children to be active when […]
Summer Safety Tips for Young Drivers
Many young people who have recently received their driver’s license look forward to getting behind the wheel and driving to visit friends, attend events and travel in general throughout the summer. However, this time of year is when accidents on the road are more likely to occur. The 100 deadliest driving days of the year […]
A Summer Sweep Through the Peeps
Birds are fascinating creatures that can be found in almost any place. Species have adaptations for their lifestyles and may differ considerably from other genres. For example, penguins and hummingbirds have little in common. Woodpeckers and albatrosses are worlds apart. Even within some groups, there are surprising differences, particularly with shorebirds. Some are large and […]
