That old Corningware dish that now sits outside as the dog’s water bowl — grab it up and dust it off, for it might be worth a couple of grand or more. Absurd? I also thought so, but am seeing many occurrences of … read more

Economists have long looked for signals in unexpected places. During tough times, Leonard Lauder popularized the lipstick index — the idea that small luxuries rise when bigger purchases are out of reach. Here’s a new kind of measure: “the Going Rate.” How we … read more

Most people know that Washington became formally recognized as a state in 1889 and members of the Puyallup, Skokomish and Suquamish tribes had thriving communities in and around the Kitsap Peninsula for thousands of years prior to immigrant settlement. Yet, how many people … read more

Very trendy these days to buy used items online, but don’t call that “thrifting.” Thrifting is the actual walking into a thrift shop or rummage sale, looking for a small cooking pot, but then jumping up and down discovering three midcentury canisters like … read more

I recently bought these colorful storage baskets at Belfair’s Habitat for Humanity for $8. Not the best deal, but it’s not easy to find the utilitarian gems. And, of course, it also contributed to a cause. Years back, the Habitat for Humanity stores … read more

At just over three hours driving time from West Sound, the charming village of Leavenworth makes for a convenient and activity-filled, long-weekend getaway. The drive is very pleasant as it meanders through the stunning North Cascade countryside along the Skykomish and Wenatchee rivers. … read more

Fiesta dinnerware is always popular and getting hard to find. It took several days to find these red pieces. The history of Fiesta dinnerware can be traced back to the 1840s in East Liverpool, Ohio, where the Laughlin brothers opened a pottery business. … read more

Driving on winding, two-lane roads lined with large fir trees, past several small farms, the journey sets the mood for a visit to Chalet in the Woods, a peaceful and unique gift shop in Gig Harbor. The driveway is lined with long-established hydrangea … read more

White Barn is a beautiful store in Belfair for décor and floral arrangements. The local owner, Jimmi Cook, tries to make happiness and enjoyment the motivator of the business. “I just do what feels good and brings me joy every day,” Cook says. … read more