A few years ago, Deb Ross decided it was time to begin a new chapter in her life. Her husband had died, leaving her with a home on acreage that she lovingly dubs “the farmhouse.” That home was filled with memories of a … read more
With school back in session, it’s a good time to focus on smarter eating habits. Packing your little learner’s lunch is an easy way to help ensure his or her diet contains enough protein and calcium. By letting your kids play a role … read more
“We kind of built this whole place around the grandkids,” said Sam Johnson, speaking about the 30 acres of mostly forested land near Kingston that he and his wife, Debi, purchased in 2001. The Johnsons had been living in Edmonds and were both … read more
Rosemary Collins founded Pony Up Rescue for Equines in Olalla in 2006 because she saw a need for a rescue organization. In early 2007, Pony Up received 501(c)3 nonprofit status, and its mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome horses in need due … read more
The small, hand-lettered sign on Peacock Hill Avenue near Gig Harbor says, simply, “Butler’s Farm. Apples. Self serve.” It’s the first hint that at the end of the dirt driveway, there’s a 7.5-acre orchard where more than 1,200 apple trees — with upward … read more
During a recent visit to Fletcher Bay Winery on Bainbridge Island, owner and winemaker Jim Wilford and marketing director Brook Huffman talked about many things, since the winery was growing a lot and things were changing. For example, they have upped their overall … read more
A ghost, the goddess of death, a jellyfish and World War II GI, and a gaggle of waterfowl are among the characters that strut the stage at this year’s Island Theatre Ten-Minute Play Festival, Aug. 18 and 19. Now in its sixth year, … read more
My time in the garden is often solitary, but as I focus on a task, my head is filled with whispers. The conversation comes, unbidden — triggered by a sound, a scent or a flower. The garden is where I reconnect with people … read more
Around Belfair, it’s still called Hippie Hill Community. Some old friends and the price of the land drew glass artist Randy Calm and his wife, Cathy, from Chicago to Hippie Hill nearly 47 years ago. Then, there were 13 homesteading families and no … read more
