New Bistro Opens in Historic Mount Vernon Building | Union Block Bistro
Upon entering the Union Block Bistro, you’re immediately greeted by a friendly face. The Union Block Bistro is homey. The interior…
31 Days of Giveaways
It’s time for 31 Days of Giveaways! Enter to win a prize from a local business every day in August, plus a chance to win the Grand Prize!
Teaching Self-Care | Skagit Alexander Technique
The Alexander Technique, which was created by Frederick Matthias Alexander in the late 1800s, is a method for improving posture and movement through self-awareness, with the aim of decreasing pain and increasing mindfulness. “The way I usually…
Planting Joy, Growing Community | Tulip Valley Farms CEO Andrew Miller
In the heart of Skagit Valley, where spring transforms the landscape into a vibrant sea of color, Andrew Miller has carved out a unique space in the region’s storied tulip farming tradition. As the CEO of Tulip Valley Farms, Miller is not only reshaping the way people experience tulips but also championing the future of agritourism in Washington. A Non-Traditional Path to Farming Miller’s journey began far from the tulip fields, with four graduate…
“If You Have a Garden and a Library, You Have Everything You Need.” | Little Mountain Books & Botanica
If you’re headed to see the tulips this month, keep your eyes peeled! Just after you cross the river into West Mount Vernon a charming new bookshop beckons. Inside, the vibes in Little Mountain Books & Botanica are even better: cozy without feeling claustrophobic, and thoughtfully decorated. The shop is stocked with books of all genres—currently used, but…
Bringing Color and Light to the Dead of Winter | Illuminight Winter Walk
People from all over Skagit and Whatcom converged on Mount Vernon’s Riverwalk Plaza on January 31 for the annual Illuminight Winter Walk. Crowds of families and friends lit the winter sky with lanterns of all shapes and sizes, from enormous salmon- and snail-shaped structures to small, round lanterns made from the free kits handed out throughout the month by the Mount Vernon Parks & Enrichment Services. The event began with music and dancing, including joyful performances by…
The Family That Frames Together | Wilson Picture Framing
Whether you received a new print for the holidays or you’ve had a beloved poster rolled up in the shipping tube for months, let this be the nudge you need to get it framed. I know, I know, custom framing can…
A New Multi-Use Space Opens in Downtown Mount Vernon | Mount Vernon Library Commons
At the end of last year, a project that was two years and $56 million in the making came to a close: the new Mount…
Bringing a Mount Vernon Home Into the 21st Century | True Bearing Built
The primary goal of this Mount Vernon kitchen remodel was to take the original closed-kitchen layout and turn it into an updated, stylish, and functional open-layout space where the homeowner could host guests and feel connected to the rest of the house. The new design removed the L-shaped dividing wall, opening the floor plan to enhance the…
Everything a Rider Needs, From Head to Toe -The Bony Pony
Written And Photographed By: Anne Godenham The Shop Out on Old Highway 99 at the south end of Mount Vernon, surrounded by huge agricultural and manufacturing businesses, there’s a sort of horse-riding mecca. Bony Pony is a one-stop-shop for horse lovers and anyone who likes to dress in western fashion. The Atmosphere The first thing you’ll likely notice upon entering the shop is the smell of fresh leather, strong enough to be enticing without being overpowering. Then…
Discover, Learn, Grow
Local Resources for Garden-Lovers This Spring As March brings us into spring, gardens all over the North Sound are waking up from their winter slumbers. Nurseries that might have closed for the season are open again, and local destination gardens are coming into bloom. Read on for resources galore, from local businesses to the area’s…
Restaurants that Go Above and Beyond
I think we can all agree that going out for coffee or food is already a treat, especially in these times of ever-increasing inflation. But sometimes, we need a little something extra—whether that’s a small freebie, a creative presentation, or even just a kind word. That’s why we’ve polled everyone we know to get the…
Creative Passions Brought to Life: Perry and Carlson
Step into this local boutique and art gallery to find yourself transported into a world dreamed up by Owners Christian Carlson and Trina Perry Carlson. With backgrounds in design, the two renovated the historic 1924 Brunet building seven years ago. The…
How a Dry January Will Set You Up for Success in 2024
The New Year is all about rebirth, fresh starts, and setting attainable goals. The key word there is “attainable.” Vision-boarding is all well and good, but every successful plan has a first step and a finish line….
Holiday Dinner Redo
Five Faves: Ways to Give Back
Festival of Trees The Skagit Regional Health Foundation hosts this annual festival that goes to support their life-saving medical programs. Families can attend Santa breakfasts, grown-ups can dress to the nines to attend the Gala and Auction, and you can bid on their decorated mini-trees in Downtown Mount Vernon. St. Joseph Center, 215 N. 15th St., Mount Vernon, skagitregionalhealth.org/foundation Holiday Giving Store Now in its 20th year, Ferndale’s Holiday Giving…
Holiday Shopping Guide
Apse Jewelry Studio & Showroom Downtown Bellingham’s coolest jewelry spot with a colorful selection of rings, chains, and hoops. We handcraft all our jewelry in-studio using genuine precious metals and gemstones and design…
Best of the Northwest 2023
Meet Your Mushrooms!
We get it– mushrooms aren’t the easiest niche to break into. There’s no fungi food group in that familiar pyramid, and no, they shouldn’t be lumped in with the veggies! When you look into it, the world of mushrooms is expansive, and the range of flavors, sizes, textures, and uses can seem daunting. But…
Skagit Valley Woman Creates the Change She Wants To See: Marla Chapa
When you are unabashedly unafraid to create the waves necessary to produce change, you are a force to be reckoned with. At first glance, Marla Chapa’s small frame and brilliant, welcoming smile could deceive you into thinking that she’s not this person….
Feature: Find Your Perfect Palette
Storybook Tea Parties and a Real Life Wonderland
White Branches
Budding, Blossoming, Blooming
bLoom
Pacific Northwest Health Perks
January 2023 Feature, Keeping your mind and body healthy and active.
Classic Christmas: Gifts to Treasure
Under the Tree Presentation (pun intended) is part of the fun when it comes to holiday gifting– and if you’re looking to shop local for gift wrap, Cresswell Boggs is sure to have everything you need and more. If you prefer to get your gifts professionally wrapped, Paper Dreams…
At Home for the Holidays
Ideas to turn your home into an iconic holiday haven
Your Fashion Home at House of Style
House of Style Boutique
Cozy Winter Restaurants: A Regional Round-Up
When it comes to staving off the PNW winter blues, good food is a great antidote– especially when it’s enjoyed somewhere warm, welcoming, and intimate. Imagine it now: The weather outside is frightful, but you’re snuggled up with your sweetie and sharing a delicious meal by the light of a roaring fire. Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it? If the season begins to take its toll, we recommend looking to our local restaurants to keep…
PNW Art in the Heart of Skagit Valley
Rexville Grange Art Show
Fall Festivities: Pumpkin Picking and More at Gordon Skagit Farms
Gordon Skagit Farms
Lovely Liqueurs
If liquors are the backbone of the cocktail world, then liqueurs could be thought of as their sweeter, more playful sibling….
Showcasing the Creative Energy of Skagit County
The LIDO Collective
Working with Willow: Basketry by Katherine Lewis
Dunbar Gardens
Community Meets Creativity in Skagit Valley
Valley Made Market
New Mount Vernon Design Center Honors Sustainability and Creativity
Pinecone Inc.
This Mother’s Day, say ‘I Love You’ at Spero Spa
Mother’s Day Specials at Spero Skin Spa Salon
Temperate Habits Brewing
Mount Vernon Gets a New Brewery
Men Like to be Pampered Too
PURE Skin + Wellness offers Waxings, Lash Lifts, and More
Flora Perez-Lucatero
One woman’s mission to serve the children of Skagit Valley
Revival Cocktail Lounge
Mount Vernon’s Newest, Oldest-Feeling Bar
BONW 2019 Feature: Winner’s Announced!
The results are in. You—readers from Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan counties—cast more than a total half-million votes in 126 categories for your favorite North Sound businesses, places, and people. From Best Date Night to Best Dentist, you made your choices known. Here they are. Thank you to all our readers and followers for participating and voting, and congratulations to all of the winners! Click below to see the…
Valley Made Market Goes Virtual
Valley Made Market’s digital platform allows you to continue supporting local, with the same handmade products you know and love.
For the Love of Wood
Skagit Valley Slabhaus turns salvaged wood into functional art.
The Pop-Up: Mount Vernon’s New Business Incubator
This pop-up business space aims to provide resources for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Get Creative in Skagit Valley
For more than 50 years, Tri Dee Arts has been a fixture in downtown Mount Vernon—in 2018, the newest owners unveiled two renovated sections.
A Passion for the Fiber Arts
Wild Fibers in downtown Mount Vernon has been inspiring fiber artists for nearly 15 years—a one-stop destination for everything fiber and fiber-related.
Over 50 Years of Farming in Skagit Valley
Since purchasing their first 80 acres of farmland in 1963, Steve and Susan Schuh have expanded to 250 acres and now manage Schuh Farms with their children.
Not Her First Rodeo
For some local grass-fed Angus beef, check out Addies Angus Ranch in Mount Vernon—a small, family business run by Nikki Lewis-LeSourd.
Grain to Glass in Skagit County
Farmstrong Brewing Co. in Mount Vernon is making use of local grain—All of their beers contain some percentage of barley that was grown and malted locally.
The Mixing Tin
This month’s Mixing Tin is Strawberry Fizz from Valley Shine Distillery. The perfect cocktail to leave winter behind and get in that summertime mood.
Cinco de Mayo Hot Spots
Celebrate the Mexican army’s win over France at the Battle of Pueblo with the best Mexican dishes around the North Sound this Cinco de Mayo.
Five Faves
From beer to wine, mead to olive oil and vinegar, this month’s Five Faves takes a look at the best local tasting rooms in Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan.
A History of Tulips in the Valley
A look at the history behind the beautiful Skagit Valley Tulip Festival shows a vibrant Dutch background. Visit Tulip Town and RoozenGaarde this April!
Five Faves
This month’s Five Faves is a list of five garden centers where you can find everything to make your garden grow beautifully this Spring.
From Hard Knocks to Helping Hands
Tina Tate is the exeutive director of Frienship House, a clean and sober shelter that provides food, clothes, and recovery to the homeless in Skagit County.
Spectacular Seafood
Salmon and shrimp and crab, oh my! February features some of the restaurants and eateries in Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan where you can find the best fresh, local seafood.
Responsible Hair Care
Alchemika Salon, with owner and stylist Somer-Barnes, is an eco-conscious salon for responsible hair care. Green Circle provides compostable packaging.
Oh, Christmas Tree
As you are preparing for the holidays, here is a list of local, U-cut Christmas tree farms around Whatcom and Skagit counties.
Woodcut Prints, Handmade Crafts In Downtown Mount Vernon
From stickers to mugs to handmade jewelry to screen-printed clothes, it’s all available at elSage Designs in downtown Mount Vernon.
Best of the Northwest 2018 Winners Announced
You voted, and now you can see who is the Best in the Northwest! Here are the Gold, Silver, and Bronze winners in all 126 categories.
Valley Shine Distillery
Here’s an inside look into Mount Vernon’s Valley Shine Distillery, where prohibition, bootlegging, and Al Capone are a big part of its history.
Five Faves
We are highlighting five of our favorite hikes to take during the fall season, from the North Cascades to the San Juan Islands.
Vibrant Mount Vernon: Not Just for Tulips Any More
Downtown Mount Vernon in Skagit County is best known for the tulip fields, but it is growing with new businesses, events, parks, and more!
107th Year, and Counting
The Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden celebrates its 107th year and still maintaining its agricultural roots from when it began in 1911.
August Ice Cream Main Feature | First Scoop
A quick look into the history of ice cream and a list of local ice cream shops in the North Sound that make their own delicious desserts!
Harvesting Suppers This Summer
Summer is a great time for buying local and eating fresh foods. Planning meals ahead can save you time for other fun summer activities.
Baking School and Bread Lab Rise Together in Burlington
The Skagit Bread Lab is offering classes in their new King Arthur Flour Baking School to educate locals and give back to the community.
Growth Beyond ADU: Handle with Care
Growth is inevitable. The North Sound region is increasing in population and infrastructure. How is this growth affecting our quality of life?
Military Tourism
Take a tour of a few Washington State Parks and learn about the military history in this area, from the early 1800s to WWII.
Military Bases
A behind-the-scenes look at what goes on at the Naval Air Station on Whidbey Island.
Insole Giant Makes Big Step
Superfeet is emerging as a leader in footbed technology.
Finding Sunshine in a (Beer) Can | Sip
Only the most radical (and misguided) beer snob would insist on a glass for every beer-drinking occasion. Smart drinking requires an appreciation of context.
Hidden Gem: North Cascades National Park Turns 50
The North Cascades National Park, or the “American Alps,” contains nearly 400 miles of accessible trails with 94% of the acreage designated as wilderness.
Saving Spinach: Plant Doctor Upgrades Crop
Plant pathologist Lindsey du Toit and her team are increasing spinach seed production in Skagit County through Fusarium fungus research.
Videographer, Environmental Advocate
Michael Dyrland of Dyrland Productions uses photography and multimedia to bring environmental issues to the forefront.
Seeking Perfection on a Knife’s Edge
Blacksmith Andy Gladish creates beautiful, sharp, and durable knives as owner of Element Fe.
Mixing Tin
Maple and brown sugar? These flavors were made for each other, we all know that. But if you thought they existed only in your morning oatmeal, think again.
Skin Deep in Mount Vernon
Bare Boutique in Mount Vernon provides high-quality skincare products and services in a relaxing and welcoming environment.
Chocolate Duo Turning A Page
Evolve Chocolate has found a new home at Village Books, expanding to include a café and bar, showcasing what Bellingham has to offer.
Finishing Touches
THE SHOP Whether your home’s style is farmhouse, nautical or Paris chic, Mount Vernon’s Re-Feather Your Nest has the perfect finishing touches for any well-designed room. In addition to…
More Than Just Coffee
At any given time, Mount Vernon’s Ristretto Coffee Lounge & Wine Bar is abuzz with activity. An entrepreneur works intently on her laptop, two…
Lasting Image | Pat McDonnell
What is your favorite thing to take pictures of? Street Photography is my favorite thing to shoot, it’s spontaneous, gets me out, and I really get to see the town. I love shooting both film and digital. What do you do when you aren’t taking photos? I help craft micro social media content…
French Fundamentals in an English-Style Pub
Off La Conner’s main drag and up a hill sits The Oyster & Thistle Restaurant & Pub. Originally a hotel and restaurant (and for a year a barbershop), it was designed in 1976 by architect Glen Bartlett in an English country theme. Going for authenticity, Bartlett salvaged stained glass…
Meet the Chef
Chef Todd Alan Martin of Hundred North hosted his German-inspired dinner on Thursday, February 22 at Judd & Black Appliance in Mount Vernon. The four-course meal was full of…
Platform of Change
Kelli Linville chuckles as she recalls how people occasionally mistake her husband for the mayor of Bellingham—a job she’s held since 2012. White men still predominate in the halls of government from Washington D.C. to Whatcom County, but increasingly women…
Garbage Shaming
Loretta gets serious about recycling to avoid the public stockade. I don’t shame easily. As a native New Yorker, my adherence to social norms was often optional, kind of like taking abstinence advice from my mom when I was a teenager. I would listen politely, and then do what I wanted. Mom, I should have listened. You were right, abstinence does make the heart grow fonder. Then,…
Go with Your Gut – It’ll Help Your Brain
Gut instinct. Listen to your gut. What does your gut tell you? In the 1970s through to the 1980s, studies on the connection between diet and depression were being conducted….
Skin Esthetician’s Mission: Empowering Women & Teens
Around age 10, I started going with my mom to get her hair cut. Sitting in the corner and watching the staff, I knew then that I wanted to be a part of the salon industry. I didn’t really have an interest in doing hair, but more in the connection that I saw taking place. I tried to sign up for part-time hair-dressing in high…
Bothell Furniture
Since 1985, Bothell Furniture has been a mainstay in downtown Bothell, and a recent move to a larger building just four blocks away has allowed it to spread…
Cider House Rules?
Bellingham Cider Company In a region dominated by local beers of all kinds, Bellingham Cider Company boldly enters on the leading edge of a brewing renaissance. The restaurant, set to open in February at 205 Prospect St., is nestled next door to Sylvia Center of the Arts and near the Whatcom Museum, where it will enjoy the bustle of Prospect Street and…
Protecting the Treasure of Whatcom County
Whatcom Land Trust From the North Cascade mountains to the Salish Sea, the committed members of the Whatcom Land Trust have made it their mission to protect the diverse land that draws people to Whatcom County. For many of Whatcom County’s residents, it is the unique landscape, endless green spaces, and integrated park system that combine to make it hard to imagine living anywhere else. For Whatcom Land…
All-Ages Entertainment Downtown
The Ruckus Room Arcade and Fun Center Looking to provide an all-ages space downtown for Bellingham’s under-21 crowd, Collin Topolski and Emmalyn Smith opened the Ruckus Room Arcade and Fun Center in August of 2017. The co-owners designed the space with the basements and…
From Italy, With Love
Sempre Italiano Laura and Raffaele Chiusano like to describe events in their lives as “destino!” The two have a zest for life and passion for their work which…
Yes in a Dress- Nuu-Muu
Athletic leisure wear is all the rage, but what about a functional athletic garment that looks as pretty as your non-athletic garments? What about telling your daughter she can play…
Pacific Northwest Whimsy
As a Bellingham native, professional painter Ben Mann has spent much of his life capturing the whimsy of the Pacific Northwest. His paintings are bold with color, yet soft with their overall simplicity. It is hard to imagine the toughest art critic not breaking a smile after…
Fixer-Upper? No Thanks.
In 2018, Seniors and Millennials Will Find Common Ground in New Construction. If we only had a crystal ball. Then we could predict, or at least pretend to predict, the real estate economy and the housing…
Lasting Image
What is your favorite thing to take pictures of? Sunsets are by far my favorite things to take photos of because they are always unique and unpredictable. A bonfire on the beach with friends is one of my favorite settings to photograph….
Mixing Tin
EAT Restaurant and Bar The Mon Dieu (My god) Ingredients: Captain Morgan’s rum, maple, lime, topped with BelleWood Acres Cider, $11 Tucked on the corner of East Chestnut and Cornwall in downtown Bellingham, EAT…
Makeup Tips for the Time-Challenged
As a makeup artist, I often get questions/comments about my own beauty routine, somewhere along the lines of “Do you airbrush yourself every day?” or “It must take you forever to do your makeup in the morning!” But the truth is — no — to each of those things! Just like you, I am busy! The last thing I have time to do is to spend time on myself. So, in…
Five Faves
Cinnamon Rolls MOUNT BAKERY CAFÉ & BAKERY Definitely a mountaintop experience. Revel in this devilishly sticky unraveling of a treat nicknamed “cinnamon snail” in Danish pastry. Mount Bakery’s spiral-layered roll recipe originated with a Belgian grandmother from…
Best Breakfasts
All of us do it. Some before dawn cracks a new day, while others prefer to wait until mid-morning. There are even those who do it almost at lunchtime. Doesn’t matter what time you do it, breakfast…
Firehouse Glass Gallery
Glassblowing Art When molten glass cools too quickly it explodes. At the Firehouse Glass Gallery in Langley there’s a barrel of discarded blowpipes with leftover nubs of…
Lasting Image
What is your favorite thing to take pictures of? Having lived in Whatcom County for 46 years, I’ve seen some beautiful scenery…
Fighting Food Insecurity With Milk
In Whatcom, San Juan, and Skagit counties, Northwest Harvest works with a total 21 food banks, feeding more than 245,000 families.
The Art of Forgiveness
Colleen Haggerty lay on the precipice of sleep. The same scene that had visited her countless times before would visit again. She was in a car, sometimes driving, sometimes not. It was dark and raining. Out of the darkness comes a car, barreling straight for her, faster and faster, destined for catastrophic damage. At the last moment, just before impact, Haggerty wakes in terror. For 15 years, Haggerty was haunted by that day. The rainy day a driver…
Quinn & Foster
Keeping it classic When Garys’ Men’s and Women’s Wear closed in the winter of 2016, the Bellingham community mourned. Gary Lupo and his wife Barbara had run the well-loved store since 1978 (preceded by another owner named Gary, hence “Garys’”). Customers enjoyed memorable service and a large selection of classic clothing and shoes for men and women. Thankfully,…
When it Comes to Running: Feet First
Skagit Running Company 724 South 1st St., Mount Vernon 360.982.2934 facebook.com/Skagit-Running-Company THE SHOP On a corner at the edge of downtown Mount Vernon sits Skagit Running Company….
Western Washington student Breezy Johnson Named to Olympic Team and Goes on a Tear
Change skier Breezy Johnson’s status from “Olympic hopeful” to South Korea-bound. In an update to our story in the February…
Opioid Addiction, Why Saying “NO” Is So Hard
Many parents may remember Nancy Reagan’s anti-drug slogan, “Just say ‘No’ to drugs”, or the anti-drug campaign that used a frying pan and eggs to highlight the effect of drugs on the brain. The messages were simple and catchy. Neither slogan, however, gave parents the full scope of tools to address the risks of drug abuse with their kids. And that is because the physical effect of drug abuse on the human brain was not yet fully understood, especially for dangerously addictive opioids.
Sustainable Connections Means (Local) Business
Derek Long grew up in a one-stoplight town in Ohio before pursuing a career in business and economics. Much like the Pacific Northwest, Long’s hometown barely saw the sun. However, it wasn’t until after earning his degree from the University of Toledo and traveling around the world for more than a year that Long accidentally ended up in Whatcom County. Like many post-grads, Long took the opportunity to travel early in life. For a…
Banking on Two Wheels
Bellingham’s New Pump Track Is a Hit With just a push or two of a pedal, riders weave up, down and around, gathering speed and harnessing it to tackle the next turn or incline. On Bellingham’s very first pump track, inertia is the name of the game, one that can be played by…
Butcher Shop Bringing the Craft Back to Bellingham
Four years ago, Shaun Almassy wasn’t sure that he even wanted to become a butcher. After some convincing from a friend, he decided to try his hand at butchery. Almassy now finds himself up, at times as early as 6 a.m., prepping for the day ahead.
Alaskan Odysseys
Women in Fishing Find Their Passions, Help Others: Comprising a small group in a large and unforgiving industry that is Alaskan fishing, women persevere through extreme conditions, long hours, little sleep, and little to no contact with the outside world. But they keep returning, summer after summer, to catch what can’t be found on the mainland,…
From 3-D Printers to gene therapies, medicine is changing like never before
From 3-D Printers to gene therapies, medicine is changing like never before Two years ago this month, in a sweeping farewell State of the Union address, President Obama made the startling announcement that the U.S. would…
A Scratch Kitchen Playing With Flavors
Third Street Cafe Earlier this summer, chef Maryna Frederiksen took over the kitchen at Mount Vernon’s Third Street Cafe. The Skagit Co-op off-shoot eatery has flourished under Frederiksen’s leadership and it doesn’t take more than a few bites of any dish to understand why. The locally procured, seasonal menu requires a bit of…
Mount Vernon Farmers Market
Going strong for 30 years, the Mount Vernon Farmers Market has been operating since 1987. Today it’s a vibrant event with live music, an array of vendors, and the occasional cooking competition. Known…
A Prime Dining Experience
Max Dale’s Steak & Chop House In 1951 Max and Pauline Dale wanted to open a burger place within a sophisticated setting. Max Dale’s Steak & Chop House began serving exceptional burgers in a dining room of white-clothed tables and chandeliers overhead. In 1976 the restaurant experienced a severe…
Aged Filet Mignon with Rogue River Blue and Bordeaux Demi-Glace – 13moons
INGREDIENTS: • 7 oz filet mignon (USDA prime, aged, center cut) • 1 oz Rogue River blue cheese • 2 oz Bordeaux demi-glace • 1 ea. orange zest • 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil • ½ ea. shallot (minced) • 2 ea. garlic (sliced • 3 ea. asparagus (peeled/trimmed) • 1 ea. parsley • 1 tsp butter • 1 tsp sage butter • 2…
Meet the Chef – 13moons Restaurant at Swinomish Casino and Lodge
On February 9, guests braved the slushy roads to attend our Meet the Chef event. Held in the test kitchen of Mount Vernon’s Judd & Black, we nibbled, sipped, and learned a thing or two about choosing the ideal steak and why chocolate needs to be melted in a double boiler. Chef Dan Van Norman of 13moons from the Swinomish Casino & Lodge presented plate…
Ten Good Places to Watch March Madness
Sure, you could watch the NCAA men’s and women’s basketball tournaments from the comfort of your own sofa, but what’s the fun in screaming your fool head off in a quiet house? Go find your tribe – or at least some good…
Best of the Northwest 2016
The results are in! Our readers have voted on their favorite businesses, services, restaurants, stores, and spas from Blaine to Anacortes. Looking for the go-to places to get the perfect haircut or find the best dentist? Look no further. Winners announced here! Powered by…
Mount Vernon’s Chicest Newbie
Situated in the heart of historic downtown Mount Vernon, Ryann Michele & Co. is the chicest newbie in the Pacific Northwest. A home decor and clothing boutique run by a mother-daughter duo, Ryann and Michele provide their customers with a stylish variety of clothing,…
ROOM TO BREATHE Organization For The New Year
Winter in the Pacific Northwest. The near-constant cloud cover brings the sky low and drapes the landscape in shadows. Often it’s dark when we wake to leave for work and dark once more by the time we return home. For most of us, the colder, wetter, gloomier weather means more time spent indoors. In January, once the festivities of the…
Aerial Artistry with Terril Teran Mire
There are numerous kinds of apparatuses used in aerial acts, some of the most popular being hoop, hammock, rope, and silks.
Chinese Herbal Medicine Explored
Accounts differ, deities get in the mix, but according to most sources, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as we understand it began with the Shennong, a demigod known as the Divine Herdsman.
Conscious Cosmetics – Go Beyond The Label
When reading labels, we should not only be reading our ingredient lists but learning about them.
Fresh Face For Winter
simple solutions and product recommendations to help your beauty shine bright despite the wet, blustery winter weather.
A Shop Sets Sail
Tucked beneath the South Bay Suites in historic Fairhaven is Bellingham’s newest home decor and gift shop. 1 Paperboat welcomes guests with open doors to Bellingham Bay, creating a new by-the-sea shopping experience. Within its walls, shoppers can find an array of home goods, jewelry, gifts, and clothing. Storeowners Royal and Diane Reinsch, and their dog Chief, are inspired by the closeness to the bay, and decided on a nautical theme for the store. When thinking…
The Road to Recovery, A Reason to Rise
The day that Jackie found out she was pregnant, her world came into focus. She was 21, homeless, and seeing a man who was being tormented by his own demons. Jackie had seen…
White Rock, B.C
A lone stretch of driftwood-strewn beach, a quiet morning stroll along the boardwalk, a cozy cup of coffee watching a storm roll in over the water — White Rock, B.C. is a great place to spend a little time away. Canada without the rush and bustle of Vancouver, but close enough to home to invest…
A Bold New Vision
When traveling between Seattle and Vancouver, Bellingham tends to be the place to stop on the way. We’re striving to be a place that travelers don’t just pass through, but decide to stay and visit for a weekend. The Downtown Bellingham Partnership is one of the leading forces making downtown a place for economic and cultural growth, as well as a magnet for visitors. DBP…
Sips of the Season featuring Signature Cocktails by Keenan’s at the Pier
Keenan ’s at the Pier and The Chrysalis Inn hosted the inaugural Bellingham Alive Sips of the Season event on the restaurant’s open air patio. Gentle ocean breezes, fun people, and remarkable hors d’ oeuvres and fantastic cocktails made for an unforgettable afternoon. Keenan’s staff members presented appetizers paired with each hand -crafted cocktail….
Village Books Opens In Lynden
Anyone who lives in Bellingham knows the open, inviting, independent bookstore Village Books and its next-door neighbor, the gift shop Paper Dreams. Village Books is an anchor in the community, functioning as more than just a retail space. It is a gathering place that embodies what Bellingham is about: partnerships, community- building, and being locally focused. The large brick building in Historic Fairhaven houses three…
Sculpture Northwest Opens Gallery
It could be a misnomer to call Sculpture Northwest a sculpture gallery. Yes, they certainly have one in downtown Bellingham on Prospect Avenue, but they are more than that. Under the leadership of George Drake and Deanna Lane — with significant energy and time from a dedicated board— Sculpture Northwest is a hub, a resource…
Gear Gone Wrong
Gear. It’s where a lot of great hikes and camping trips begin. Laying out the bags to fluff in the sun, trips to the camping store for more stove fuel, gathering up the sleeping pads and tucking them into tight rolls—all camping begins with gear. Even a simple day hike requires water, snacks, good shoes, lightweight clothing, hats, sunscreen, and more. So while your gear can be an important…
Best of the Northwest 2015
The results are in! Our readers have voted on their favorite businesses, services, restaurants, stores, spas and more, from Blaine to Anacortes. Looking for the go-to places to get the perfect haircut or…
The Table’s Herb Dumpling Recipe
Check out this Web Exclusive- The following recipe was omitted from Chef Dave Reera’s Pot Roast at the Meet the Chef event on September 10th, 2015. This is a great Fall or Winter dish to try! Herb Dumplings all purpose flour, 2 cups 1 1/2 tsp of salt 1 1/3 cup of milk 4 Tbsp butter, soft cubes 2 Tbsp of chopped herbs (thyme, sage, rosemary and parsley) In a large mixing bowl, add flour, soft…
Cosmos Bistro
Cosmos Bistro, located in the Herald Building, is destined to become one of Bellingham’s iconic restaurants. Recently opened by Cinnamon Berg, Cosmos Bistro offers guests a relaxing venue filled with good vibes and out-of-this-world cuisine. Berg, the genius executive chef and culinary mastermind behind the menu’s eclectic breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner menus, has taken great care to produce fare made with fresh local ingredients. Dishes are prepared with finesse to promote the…
The Bravo 369 Flight Foundation
If your children grow up studying the dramatic U.S.-led mission to deliver planes to Russia through Alaska, you’ll have Whatcom residents Craig Lang and Jeff Geer to thank. In her remarks giving the Bravo 369 Flight Foundation Congressional recognition, U.S. Representative Suzan…
Wine From Washington State
Reds Trust 2012 Cabernet Franc, Walla Walla- trustcellars.com If you like light red wines like Merlot and Pinot Noir, you might enjoy a dive into the deeper, bolder flavor of a Cabernet Franc. The makers of Trust Cabernet…
This Old Shed
For this remodel, my clients wanted to revamp an old shed. Fifty feet from the house, this outbuilding is the perfect place to create a space to entertain friends, have sleep-overs, watch movies, play games, have snacks, make music, and exercise. My…
Underwater Artists
Wonder what happens when art and science mix? Hop the next ferry over to San Juan Island to find out. Here,…
Tasteful Beauty
The Intricate Art of Edible Landscaping Western Washington is a gardener’s haven. With a mild climate, known as Zone 8 to fruit and vegetable growers, many plants thrive, often beyond our wildest expectations. Talk to those with a passion for edibles, and you start hearing things like, “Does kale ever die?” and “Do food banks take fresh garden donations?” Neither is a drawback. One of the joys of gardening—which inspires advice, anecdotes, and funny party stories—is the…
Trail Running Inspiration
It’s not much of a secret that I enjoy traveling long distances on foot—I’ve through-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail twice. I love the way miles accumulate and push you forward, the way the sheer volume inspires you to press on for just a few more miles or hours. It is a strange phenomenon that when I am traveling and I step onto a treadmill, I run for what…
Sun Valley
Take a ten-hour drive southeast—or a twohour flight—and you’ll find yourself at the famed ski destination, Sun Valley, Idaho. Often thought of as a snowy playground for the…
Darrell Hillaire and Setting Suns Productions
It seems reductive to call Darrell Hillaire a playwright, given how much work he has done in his life on behalf of the Lummi Nation, and for Lummi youth in particular. Darrell has served as a coach, mentor, teacher, and leader…
Five Faves: Native Blooms
Western Red Columbine (AQUILEGIA FORMOSA) These lovely star-like blooms bob on delicate stems among lacy foliage. Running counter to the claim that native plants aren’t showy, a patch of…
Comfort Foods
When I think of food, I think of the various elegant, modern food photographs I see on Instagram, Twitter and other social media sites. Or I think of the carefully plated dishes we make at the restaurant. I get an image of a bright garden fresh beet on a white plate with color, texture and an unusual pairing. I think about that berry smoothie I made for my family this morning that did not have enough banana…
Old School Trailer Works
What’s old is new again in entertaining, and the new interest in vintage culture brings with it the welcome return of the Airstream. With four businesses under her…
Wonder Woman: Jenni Cottrell
Jenni Cottrell believes in pooling resources and bringing together a community around the beauty and power of art. To illustrate this point, she tells a story about when she was with a friend at an auction in Alaska they saw a painting they loved. The auction was to benefit…
Seeing the world in a whole new way
Inspirational doesn’t begin to describe local resident Jim Stegall, who, at 85 and in company with his guide dog Emilio, celebrates the 20th anniversary of his almost four-month, 12,000- mile trip through South America. By the time he set off, Stegall and his 70-year old travel…
House in the Field
Built to blend unobtrusively with its landscape, yet maximize views and interior space, the House in the Field takes the lines of a traditional ranch house and explodes them into beautiful angles and fascinating forms. Natural materials and an earthy palette complement the open land surrounding the house.
Wonder Woman: Zsofia Pasztor
Zsofia Pasztor is a busy woman. She is a parent of four, part-time instructor, business owner of Innovative Landscape Technologies, and creator…
Leadership Snohomish County Program
The Leadership Snohomish County Program has a mission—to develop leaders for a lifetime. Geared toward anyone seeking to build and expand their leadership skills, Leadership Snohomish educates people of all ages for a bright future.
Garden Guru: Ciscoe Morris
North End Metro caught up with Ciscoe Morris on a chilly Christmas Eve morning. For those rare few who don’t know him, Ciscoe is a local gardening personality well on his way into the annals of Seattle history. His presence immediately warmed the coffee shop, his laugh is head-turning and infectious. He lives up to his hype—friendly, humble, cheerful, and warm. He also has a passion for gardening and caring for…
Hog Wild for Sustainability
The next time you fail a drug test, you might try to blame it on the BB Ranch prosciutto. Nice try, but eating butcher William von Schneidau’s “pot pig” products won’t get you high. The Pike Place Market butcher teamed up with Jeremy Gross of Snohomish’s Bucking Boar Farms and began feeding marijuana scraps to a number of pigs when Washington legalized use of the plant in 2012. Von…
Climbing for Kids
Dave Mauro climbed the steep incline, knowing the end was near. He stepped onto the summit, looked out at the twinkling lights of Nepal and Tibet and said to himself, “Thank you.” It was 3:42 a.m. on May 20, 2013, as he…
Ramble On
Remodeling an Era If you are like me, you’ve driven around an older neighborhood at some point in your life, admiring homes with a certain style – long, low profiles with minimal exterior decor. You were probably touring an established neighborhood where ramblers were the predominate style. Their simplicity is captivating and…
Creating Sanctuary Space
Find a corner, spruce it up Perhaps you need a spot for yoga, or a place to sit and read in the sun. Maybe you like to knit by the fire or watch the rain as you…
Creating a simple date night look
With Valentine’s Day fast approaching and spring just around the corner, there is no question that the air is brimming with love. As women, I think we all can relate to wanting to look our best, especially looking forward to such a fun and fanciful season. Though a quality date night depends on a whole lot more than makeup, it can certainly help to play up our personality,…
Donna Auer – Driven to Abstraction
She was always a painter, but when Donna Auer joined some friends for a guided painting tour of Italy organized through the former (and much loved) Blue Horse Gallery, she didn’t know that she would actually have to paint, too. “They said that was part of the deal. You…
Five Faves: Local Aphrodisiacs
Oysters Packers Oyster Bar Semiahmoo You can’t get fresher or more locally sourced oysters than the farm right outside the bar. These succulent oysters are sure to do the trick, and pair nicely with Packer’s well-crafted cocktails. semiahmoo.com/packers Chili Peppers COA Mexican Eatery Mount…
Wonder Woman: Rose Lathrop
Passionate, community-minded and up for a challenge, Huxley graduate Rose Lathrop has dedicated her career to sustainable planning and design. A former employee at Aiki Homes, which specializes in sustainable, green and co-housing development, Lathrop made a change in 2012 and became the Green Building and Smart Growth program manager at Sustainable Connections. She is…
Recycled Art
The impulse to restore old furniture, to find value in the discarded, to resurrect the rusted out, to elevate trash into functionality, maybe even art—is a passionate one. In the old days, the dumpster-divers and junk men were seen as goofy guys in crumbling trucks, typified by Fred Sanford on the hit TV show Sanford and Son.
Forgiving the Unforgiven
As a young boy, age 5 or 6, I used to play in the local woods where the soil was mostly clay and the clay would stick to my PF Flyers — the farther that I walked, the longer that I played, the heavier the build-up…
A Delight-ful Remodel
Homeowners Delight Green and Michael Newlight hired Craig Burling, owner and general contractor of CB Premier Construction, to build an addition onto the master suite of their creative Chuckanut Drive house. The 850 square foot addition included a bedroom, bathroom and closets, all with electric radiant heat. “The house is 41 years old and we thought the master bath was dated, Delight said. “Also, we wanted more closet space to make the house fit with contemporary expectations…
Trailblazers
Celebrating the Women of Boeing Be ready. And always have your shoes on. That’s how Nelda Lee, the first female…
Recipe: Spring Parsnip soup with sauted rosemary apples and fried leeks
Spring Parsnip soup with sauted rosemary apples and fried leeks (Vegan) Serves 8+ Soup Ingredients: • 1/2 cup almond oil • 3 onions peeled and cut into large dice • 5 lbs Parsnips • 3.5 quarts of water • 1 tsp nutmeg, ground • 1/2 cup coconut milk • sea salt and pepper Heat the almond oil in a large stock pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for…
A Master Bath Worth Waiting For
Our master bath remodel had been a long time coming. It started in my head when we bought our 1920s Tudor in Bellingham 13 years ago. The unfinished attic had been remodeled in the 80s,…
Coastal Encounters
The North End’s Best Beaches A day at the beach burns bright in one’s memory. We are drawn to water, because the sea is a master storyteller. Shorebirds squawk and circle. The salt air aches of escape and adventure. Children squeal and giggle over ribbons of slimy seaweed and watch in wonder as small crabs skitter beneath driftwood. Empires of sand rise up again and…
The Skinny on SPF
If you aren’t intimidated by all of the acronyms associated with sunscreen, then my floppy straw hat is off to you. Even as a beauty professional I completely understand how labels like SPF, UVA, UVB, PA+++ (yes, that’s a real thing) can leave your head spinning. When boiled down, these terms confirm that without a protective shield between us and that big ball of fire in the…
Five Faves: Hiking Trails
Saint Edward State Park KIRKLAND Located on a forested bluff overlooking the northern end of Lake Washington, several dirt trails wind around 316 acres of moss-wrapped old growth trees and peekaboo stretches of sand and…
Wonder Woman: Molly Helmuth
Each issue, we highlight a woman who is setting a prime example of what success looks like in our local marketplace. This issue we celebrate Molly Helmuth, who calls Monroe’s…
Low-impact Exercise, High-impact Returns
You haven’t been to the gym in ages. You’re busy, you’re tired, and you have endless work, family and social obligations. You know you need to exercise, but who’s got the time and money to invest in a proper program? The American Heart Association recommends that individuals do moderate exercise for at least 150 minutes per week, or vigorous exercise for 75 minutes per week. Take a Load…
Husbandcare.gov
Ken’s Valentine’s Day gift for the woman who has everything I am a social scientist at heart. As with most males, I am genetically engineered to offer solutions to life’s challenges, even gender-related relationship problems — and even if the answer may come at my expense. I can’t help myself. I am stupid smart. My social laboratory of late has been the “women behind the magazine” at Bellingham Alive. I am typically outnumbered — a veritable male think…
The Beauty of Bergevin
Riddled with many wonderful wineries, Walla Walla is one of those places where one couldn’t swing a cat without hitting an award-winning wine maker. Annette Bergevin, co-owner of Bergevin Lane Vineyards, is one of those winemakers.
Fabulous Faux
The effect of faux tile finishes once depended on how light fell, how the sun or kitchen lights caught the pattern in the floor, how the tile felt underfoot or how it looked behind the sink. Decades ago, faux was just another word for fake, ersatz, as something that was meant to reach for an effect, but failed in the process. In the…
Container Herb Gardens
Herb gardens are perfect for small spaces. They thrive on patios, balconies and even on your kitchen counter. Thyme, parsley, chives, oregano, cilantro and basil are common and satisfying herbs to grow. Herbs are among the easiest plants to nurture — all you need are containers to plant them in, potting soil and a green thumb. Many…
Brightening Your Bedroom
The Light Touch With incandescent bulbs disappearing in favor of more long-lasting light bulbs, finding light that has the right color temperature can be a challenge. Florescent light—as from compact florescent lamps—can look yellow and sickly, and LEDs can look too blue. Be sure to research the right temperatures for your taste. The packaging for alternative light bulbs should list the CCT, or Correlated Color Temperature. Bedroom light generally tends to be warmer than other…
Vintage Glamour
Makeup How-To: Step 1: Skin Never skip skincare. You want to ensure that you have healthy skin to create a masterpiece from your perfect makeup canvas. Always start with a moisturizer suited for your skin type and a light eye cream that is applied with your ring finger (it is your weakest finger, and causes less tugging on your delicate…
Yakima Wine Country: Endless Possibilities
Beneath a brilliant blue sky, an emerald valley of farms, vineyards and orchards rolls out to the horizon of amber hills. At a glance, it could be Napa, Burgundy or Chianti…
Poet de la Paz
For many students at Western Washington University, Professor Oliver de la Paz is the amiable and quirky character often seen walking the halls of Humanities building, bobbing his head to his tunes, his large, friendly dog Beau in tow. An encouraging, accessible figure who pushes his students to explore while remaining true to themselves, he amuses his students with funny stories about his children, and once commented in a prose poetry…
Five Faves: Great Dates
Keenan’s at the Pier BELLINGHAM After a nice stroll around Boulevard Park and Taylor Dock, a sunset dinner at Keenan’s at the Pier would be the perfect way to spend a special evening. Located in the intimate and elegant Chrysalis Inn and Spa, Keenan’s offers fine food, a full wine list and great views. thechrysalisinn.com -> Keenan’s at the Pier Chuckanut Drive BELLINGHAM Chuckanut Drive is famous for its heart-stopping curves with dramatic drop-offs and amazing views. Picnic along the…
Always on Duty
DANIEL HOWARD Daniel Howard was on his way home after spending time in Oregon last May. He had been in Oregon recovering from an injury he sustained while working for the fire department. Near Tacoma, Howard saw a white car cross…
Wonder Woman: Mimi Osterdahl
In every issue, we will highlight the accomplishments or great careers of women in our area. In this issue, we celebrate Mimi Osterdahl, the new President of the Whatcom County Association of Realtors®. The Whatcom County Association of Realtors® is more than just a loose conglomeration of people who sell houses — it’s a powerful lobbying group that represents the interests of those in the housing and building communities here and in Olympia. The WCAR® is a big…
Getting Clean for Spring
Ahh, it’s almost spring in the Northwest! The birds will fly north and begin singing again, the rain will subside and you will once again see the…
Senior Citizens United
Ken pays respect to his elders I have your backs, seniors—and your backsides, open medical gowns and all. So what if you unintentionally embarrass your kids by posting private comments about their childhood to their public Facebook wall? At least you figured out how to log on. It’s the thought that counts, right? And so what if you don’t trust a hybrid car that…
Spring Arrives: Container Gardens for Inspiration
The sun is starting to peek through some of our winter gloom, and springtime is upon us. We called upon the plant experts at Garden Spot Nursery on Alabama St. and Kent’s Garden and Nursery on Northwest Ave. to create beautiful container gardens that harness the hope and beauty of early spring. Hellebores, narcissus and primroses in the floral display complement the earthier huckleberry and Oregon grape in the native planting. We’re pleased to bring you this early peak into…
Senior All-Stars: Volunteers Who Shine
ADRIENNE LEDERER Neighborhood and Parks Activist Energetic, warm, outspoken Adrienne came into volunteerism through a political campaign in 1996, but it was through a notice in the paper about the Guide Meridian-Cordata Neighborhood that she found herself truly engaged. She joined her neighborhood association and found…
Engaging Communities
Retirement Communities That Offer Amenities: When we think of retirement communities, we generally think of endless games of bingo and terrible food. Fortunately, we have retirement communities in our area that offer amenities beyond television reruns and…
The Rise of the Village Movement
In 2001, Boston residents came together and created a model for seniors who want the lifestyle and amenities of living in a senior community, but who wish to…
Staying Engaged: Senior Living
Welcome to the new era of retirement, in which retirees teach part-time, volunteer for nonprofits, mentor young people, doorbell for candidates, organize neighborhood potlucks and run 5Ks. Voted Best Place to Retire many times over by many national publications, Bellingham seems to embody this new feisty spirit of retirement. We are no longer convalescing…
Spring Beauty Trends
GLOW Try mixing Mac’s Strobe Cream with your foundation. Use a damp sponge to apply it to your face, and your face will have a subtle glow. GILDED EYE A fancier way of saying metallic looking eyes, and it’s easy to do. Apply a smoky eye and top it off with glitter. Use a dark eyeshadow pencil in your eye…
Small Space Growing: Beautiful Edible Containers
One of the most revelatory moments to be had as a home gardener is realizing the incredible volume of food that can be grown in a small space. A large container or two on your front or back porch, window boxes, and narrow in-ground…
Five Faves: Brunch
Homeskillet BELLINGHAM With each pop of a champagne cork, the entire staff yells “opa!” and you know it’s on. Skillets are delicious, but don’t overlook the pancakes and Cinnamon swirl French toast. For serious…
Tyree Callahan
Tyree Callahan is probably best known worldwide for his conceptual art piece Chromatic Typewriter, a 1937 Underwood typewriter that has color keys rather than letters. Small paint-laden sponges sit poised to create one of Tyree’s landscapes, a canvas of which is unscrolling from the carriage as if typed into being. Chromatic Typewriter won international acclaim and was the runner-up in the speculative category of the Core77 design awards…
Stopping a Brutal Assault: Sherry and Marlene Rials
Sherry and Marlene Rials were driving down Douglas Rd. toward Grant’s Burgers in Ferndale when they encountered a sight they will not likely forget: In the middle of an intersection, three teenagers were assaulting a young boy. “He looked like about 12 years old, his feet weren’t on the ground, they were throwing him around,” Marlene said. Sherry had her phone out ready to call the police, but her mother feared the authorities would arrive too late to save…
Mountain Biking Destinations
Five Faves 1. GALBRAITH MOUNTAIN – WHATCOM The granddaddy of all mountain biking destinations, Galbraith has many challenging but rewarding trails. Maintained…
CALLE
Newly opened, this eatery is already getting attention with a write up in Sunset magazine. Known for their take on Street Tacos — with six meat fillings to choose from and handmade corn tortillas — but that’s certainly not the only mouthwatering option. Try the Carne Asada, Posole or Tortas to name just a few menu…
Assembling Your Bucket List
What’s On Your List? Bucket Lists have made a huge surge in our culture — and somehow it sounds far more appealing than “my list of things to do before I expire.” In fact, you can even create small lists, such as a Bucket List for your 20s, 30s, or a Bucket List before you get married and have kids. The idea is to look at the…
Citrine Health
Women of Whatcom, Skagit and Island counties have an excellent option for healthcare that isn’t well-known up here — Citrine Health. Formerly the Positive Women’s Network, this one-stop wellness and health center has been in operation for 20 years. Executive Director Kerri Mallams said, “We changed the name because we also have programs for men.” There are several programs under Citrine’s umbrella — the Washington…
Remodel: Bring the Outdoors In
As the leaves fall and the cold air starts to blow, we find ourselves enjoying intimate moments in our homes once again. Now is the time to bring the outdoors in through décor. This…
Forgiving The Unforgiven
As a young boy, age 5 or 6, I used to play in the woods where Sunset Place is today. The soil was mostly clay and the clay would stick to my PF Flyers — the further that I walked, the longer that I played, the heavier the build-up of clay. Eventually, the burden became more work than joy and I would head home along James Street. I was literally an inch…
Sweets of the Season
Regardless of religion or tradition, so many of us have memories of a special treat at the holidays. From ancient ritual to cookie swaps, treats have been a part of celebrations in just about every culture you can name. The holidays are the perfect time to dust off some recipes and engage in a centuries’ old practice of making something sweet for the sweet ones in your life. Caramel & Chocolate Dipped…
Hope- The Emotional God Particle
I am in mourning. My comic idol is Robin Williams. The tragic loss of Robin should be a dark reminder — the will to live comes from within, even for the most talented…
Best Of The Northwest 2014
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Best Casino Silver Reef Hotel Casino Spa Silver: Skagit Valley Casino Bronze: Swinomish Casino & Lodge With events, expos and activities, there are always reasons…
TRUMPETER PUBLIC HOUSE
high-end, fine dining and English pub variety. Try traditional pub selections like shephard’s pie, fish and chips, or more unique choices like pork tenderloin complimented with an apricot honey glaze or crab mac and cheese with a creamy Gruyere sauce and wild-caught crab. Additionally, the Trumpeter looks to accommodate all tastes with gluten-free dishes, and the option to make any dish gluten free. Of course, a gastropub isn’t complete without beer and Trumpeter completes the dining…
P=mc2: Ken takes Albert Einstein behind the woodshed
Scientists need to take a chill pill, starting with Albert Einstein. His idea of a good time on a Friday night was to measure the speed of most everything in the physical world — sound, light, and my…
The Cork, The Tap & The Cask- A guide to drinking locally
1. North Fork Brewery 6186 Mt. Baker Highway, Deming northforkbrewery.com The home of the Beer Shrine, North Fork was established in 1997 by Sandy and Vicki Savage. Sandy is the former head brewer at Triple Rock Brewery in Berkeley, CA. He brews in very small…
Retro Remix – A Styled Shoot
This year for our style feature, we were inspired by the ornate ironwork, rich woodwork and majestic atmosphere of Lairmont Manor. Taking a cue from the Lairmont’s vintage charm, we gathered some favorite looks…
Five Faves: Summer Fairs
VANCOUVER PNE VANCOUVER AUGUST 16–SEPTEMBER 1 The PNE (Pacific National Exhibition) has been in operation for 101 years, and draws 900,000 visitors during its 17 days. Loaded with cultural demonstrations, performances, rides, fair food and more, the PNE is nonstop fun. Just remember to take cash — the debit machines on the fairgrounds only take Canadian cards. pne.ca NORTHWEST WASHINGTON FAIR LYNDEN | AUGUST 11–16…
Hypnosis: Helping You Help Yourself
Are you feeling out of control? Hypnosis can help. Are you feeling out of control in an area of your life? Do you know what you need to do, but find it hard — or nearly impossible—to follow through? Is there something in your life,…
Surviving Menopause- Ken puts his life at risk
The signs were subtle at first — a wide-open window during a cold snap in January and the perpetual running of Sleepless in Seattle on the Hallmark channel. In hindsight, it is now clear. But at the time, I was simply oblivious. Then…
Il Granaio
A nice helping of freshly made linguine twirls in a pool of light, sweet tomato broth. Mussels, clams, scallops, sumptuous shrimp and calamari peak out from the heap. The bright sauce is packed with pure tomato flavor and flecked…
Farm to Table
We are so fortunate for our beautiful, local farms. They feed us with fresh produce — mounds of ripe berries, piles of thick, rich greens, barrels of crisp, sweet apples — and they protect…
Island Getaways
SAN JUAN ISLAND San Juan Island teems with life in the summer. Friday Harbor is San Juan’s welcome mat, and a cheery one at that: just up the hill from the ferry landing, shops, restaurants and galleries, Friday Harbor awaits the eager visitor. With 8000 residents, it…
Summer Fun Guide
Olaf — the lovable snowman in Disney’s Frozen — sings about his affection for summer “Bees will buzz, and kids will blow dandelion fuzz…in summer!” But parents and grandparents aren’t always as thrilled with the extra hours of bored little ones tugging at them…
Farming Inspired Design
He’s a little bit country and she is a little bit rock ‘n roll, and the combination is something I call “organic modernism.” We combined the homeowners’ mementos, industrial pieces and warm textures to create a collection of oddities that satisfies their rustic-inspired living, giving…
Annie Crawley: Dive Into Your Imagintion
Neon green sea grass and fiery fields of red coral bubble with life. Streams of light dance weightlessly to the sway of a gentle current. Tentacles wrap and release tight circles….