It feels like summer has just started, and yet here we at the start of a new school year. This time of year tends to bring about a mix of emotions. There is excitement over new getting new clothes and school supplies and seeing friends. There is also likely some anxiety — and maybe some […]
planning
Posted inThe Outdoors
Five Backyard Styles to Inspire Your Outdoor Project
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 and friends, amping up the yard’s purpose and value. “Mulligan the TurfMutt […]
Posted inAt Home
10 Tips to Help Renters Negotiate a Lease Successfully
Editor’s note: This is part 2 of a two-part series. Read part 1 to learn what questions you should ask before signing a lease. You’ve read your lease (right?) and most of it looks acceptable — but there are a few things you’d like to add or change before signing. Maybe a parking space isn’t […]
Posted inAt Home
Is a Manufactured Accessory Dwelling Unit the Right Option for You?
Countless Washington State families are seeking affordable alternatives of having a second home to house an aging parent and other family members on their existing property. Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are a cost-effective housing alternative for existing homeowners to place an additional housing unit on their property. The Washington State Legislature recently made changes pertaining […]
Posted inAt Home
13 Questions to Ask Before You Commit to an Apartment Lease
Editor’s note: This is part 1 of a two-part series. Read part 2 to learn how to negotiate your lease. Congratulations! After a long search, you’ve finally found an apartment you like at a price you can afford. Your application has been accepted, and now all that’s left before you get your new key is […]
Posted inGarden
Adding Color and Scents to Your Midsummer Garden
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 of the following plant suggestions are great for natural pollinators. The only […]
Posted inAt Home
Meal-Prep Tips and Recipes for a Manageable Back-to-School Menu
The hustle and bustle of back-to-school season can cause chaos in households. Class time, field trips and homework typically rule each day, which can make sitting down for a meal seem like a far-off dream. One easy way to save time is simplifying family recipes and prioritizing meal-planning. Consider these meal-planning tips from the experts […]
Posted inAt Home
Highly Rated Diets to Support Heart Health
Eating healthy is an important goal for people looking to maintain or improve their physical health, particularly as it relates to the heart. With often conflicting information available online and via social media, it may be difficult or downright confusing to find the eating plan for you. To help navigate the maze of information — […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
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 […]