Fall is a great time to be in your family yard. “Our yards are giving us ways to keep living,” says Kris Kiser, president of the TurfMutt Foundation. “Your backyard can help you stay active and thrive. It’s where you might throw a … read more

Many of us have heard the saying, “Go take a hike.” At one time, this was a negative phrase, but now it could become our mantra for getting out and exploring all the abundant trails that surround us in West Sound, from the … read more

Summer and fall are prime times to get kids out of the house and spend time outdoors, especially if you live at high altitudes or by the water. As you can imagine, studies show tremendous positive effects for children who spend time outside: … read more

The days may be getting shorter, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop enjoying your outdoor living space. Here are some easy ways to flip your deck for fall, courtesy of the outdoor living experts at Trex. 1. Ignite the light. The … read more

There are so many reasons to love daffodils. These spring-blooming bulbs aren’t fussy about where they are planted. They come back to bloom again year after year, and are not bothered by deer, rabbits or other garden pests. But there’s also a whole … read more

The backyard is an important extension of a home’s living space, so it makes sense a family’s individual style be reflected in its design. By marrying your unique design perspective with your backyard needs, you can create even greater memories with your family … read more

Stepping into the garden surrounding the happy yellow house on a quiet cul-de-sac, you are entering a wonderland of vignettes — a secret garden full of treasures at every turn. Blousy, full, flowering plants; miniature glass houses; displays of birdhouses; and even a … read more

In the dead of the night, deep in the Central Cascades, Jeremy Collison navigated the dark woods, with only a headlamp to cut through the curtain of mist separating him from his prize. While others might curse the precipitation, Collison and his companions … read more

July and August are the perfect months to add more plants to West Sound gardens. Whether you are a more seasoned or a new gardener, check out the offerings at local nurseries. There are still plenty of wonderful plants to enjoy and all … read more