Sea salt starts with seawater. When the water evaporates, the salt it contains is left behind in crystal form. Around the world, salt makers use a variety of methods to make that transformation happen, but many small producers rely on slow, careful processes that let the natural minerals and textures develop. Typically, seawater is collected and filtered before being concentrated into a stronger brine. Some makers let the sun and wind do the work through…
In recent years, homeowners throughout the Pacific Northwest have begun rethinking what it means to fully use the space they already have. A rising cost of living, limited housing inventory, increasing multigenerational living, and the continued shift toward remote work have all contributed to the change. More…
As summer comes to a close, one of the most readily available fruits is peaches. Trying to utilize this delectable fruit, I made a peach upside-down cake. I incorporated bourbon for a fun twist and a taste of fall. This cake is sweet and warm, with juicy peaches soaked in bourbon and arranged in a beautiful pattern. It…
If you were to picture a cozy, modern abode for young, energetic families who love cooking, hosting, sustainability, and the outdoors, this house would be the place. Stacked with a spacious chef-grade kitchen, lots of windows and natural lighting, a large gathering space, and a remarkable view of Bellingham Bay, it’s clear that this home was built with the intention of prioritizing indoor-outdoor affiliation. Originally, the land was purchased with a midcentury house that has since been relocated and…
Clashing swords, roasting turkey legs, magical creatures, and royals holding court. Where can you find all these things in the 21st century? At a renaissance faire, of course! Earlier this summer, Skagit County hosted its first full-weekend renaissance faire, a novel event called Faire du Well. Organized by the Washington Shakespearean Festival (WSF), it took over Skagit County Fairgrounds from June 13–14, much to the excitement…
Airfield Estates Chardonnay delivers a smooth, sun-kissed profile that feels both relaxed and refined. Aromas of ripe apple, lemon curd and a touch of pineapple rise gently from the glass, layered with soft hints of toasted oak and warm vanilla. The first sip is round and inviting, with…
The largest of the Gulf Islands along coastal British Columbia, Texada Island is somewhat of a hidden gem, despite being the largest Gulf Island. Accessible mainly by ferry from Powell River and about six hours from Vancouver, what does a trip to…
A whistle tweets, signaling the end of the jam. Wheels squeak to a stop, and knee pads slam onto the shiny linoleum floor of the Lynden Skateway skating rink. At first glance, roller derby almost looks like wrestling on roller skates. “They eat, live, breathe the sport,” says Shreddy Bruisevelt, one of the coaches who started Whatcom County’s first junior roller derby league in 2017….
After over 20 years of owning Fairhaven shop 12th Street Shoes, Jody Proctor passed the mantle to Michelle Shines, a familiar face in the local boutique scene. Shines ran a shoe boutique in downtown Bellingham, Mi Shoes, from 2005 to 2017. She also owned Heroine Clothing and a mobile clothing boutique. After closing these businesses, Shines moved towards a…
Terrified of what the other kids might think of him, Zac cowered, stuck in a stare-down with a jump ramp. For one day only, the students of North Middle School in Everett were allowed to bring their skateboards to school. The teachers had miraculously agreed to let their wood shop class craft a ramp for the skaters to try out for the…
Nicknamed an “urban nursery” by Owner Max Wolf and famous photographer and employee Dylan Furst, Ferny’s Nursery lives next to a busy street and train tracks. Ferny’s mission is to “help inspire and create resilient landscapes through the use of native and edible plants in the urban environment,” and they are doing just that. From plant enthusiast to owning a plant nursery with his wife, Wolf…
Sumptuous and invigorating all at once, the Busker’s Espresso Martini from Penny Farthing at Chuckanut Bay Distillery is the perfect end to a delicious meal, and the start of a great night. Served up, cold, and sweet,…
