If you are looking to host an unforgettable holiday cocktail party, punch can make a memorable impression on your guests and bring your get-together to the next level. Punch reached the height of its popularity during the Victorian Age. Originally made with alcohol, … read more

Some people look forward to winter because they enjoy snow sports. Fans of NFL football love the playoffs. Others appreciate a reason to wear flannel and sip hot chocolate by a cozy fire. Birders see winter as the time to bundle up and … read more

So, you’ve done the research and bought the perfect gift, but now you want to add that extra-special touch? I’ve got the answer: wrapping paper! Getting creative with your gift wrapping game is a fun way to take a thoughtful gift from “wow” … read more

The roof often goes without notice, greatly underappreciated for its contribution to protecting your house and family. Roofs only account for roughly 5 percent of the building cost of a home but protect the other 95 percent of your investment from the sun, … read more

The medieval village of Brugge, Belgium, is a major tourist destination in Europe. But it only feels that way between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. That’s when the Market Square is bustling with day visitors, via bus from Brussels and … read more

On a south-facing bluff in Indianola sits a botanical “salad bowl” known as Windcliff. A garden mixture of plants from around the world, it houses a diverse array of species. Plants from China and Vietnam are well represented but South African species especially … read more

From Thelma Higbee’s 1959 dictionary to CJ’s Evergreen General Store rhubarb strawberry pies — it was a wild Scrabble game. This isn’t my first rodeo, I mean Scrabble party. Over the years, I have had a few of the giddy, giggly get-together events. … read more

Wine, food and music. These are the key elements of any great party and as the height of party season, you’ll want to get your party A game dialed in. First and foremost is wine. Select a few different bottles to complement the … read more

Charitable giving is a significant part of many people’s lives and budgets, especially during the holiday season, and individuals are often eager to give back and lend a helping hand to those in need. Unfortunately, not every organization seeking a donation is exactly … read more