In December 2016, “Bellingham Alive” published a story about Growing Veterans (GV), a Whatcom-based organization that was being nationally recognized for its powerful veteran-focused agrotherapy program. Veterans often struggle…
Many of us seek peace, composure, and resilience, but it can be hard to find. If you’re looking for some guidance, Bellingham’s friendly neighborhood Zen community is waiting with a warm welcome at their newly- opened temple. Red Cedar Zen Community was founded in…
Green smoothies are more than just a health trend—they’re a simple, delicious way to boost daily nutrition. Combining leafy greens like spinach or kale with fruits, liquids, and optional superfood boosters, these vibrant drinks provide vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants in every sip. Ideal for busy mornings or a post-workout pick-me-up, green smoothies can be customized to…
THOMSON & SCOTT NOUGHTY NON-ALCOHOLIC BLANC Thomson & Scott Noughty Blanc is a fresh and easygoing non-alcoholic white that’s perfect for light dinners. Made with organic grapes and crafted to keep its character after dealcoholization, it offers crisp citrus and juicy peach notes with a clean, dry finish….
These days, I’ve found that hope and community are more important than ever, especially considering the current state of our world. Luckily, we’ve got access to a healthy resource in Skagit County that is more reliable and comprehensible than ever. This is Cosmic Veggies, a vegan and gluten-free eatery…
Designer: Robin Daly Color & Design Builder: Cascade Custom Homes Photographer: Snowberry Lane Photography When a Whidbey Island couple looked to expand their home’s livable space, their attention turned to what was beneath their feet: a daylight basement and…
For so many of us, health concerns fall into two camps: “worthy of a doctor appointment” and “I’ll probably wonder about this forever.” But even questions that don’t…
1. It’s not happenstance that Avenue Bread has three separate locations in Bellingham alone. This popular eatery’s Tofu-ggenue breakfast sandwich is a savory tofu, avocado, red pepper, and caramelized onion delight! 2. The Black Cat’s Fried Chicken and Bacon sandwich is the perfect way to end the day! Paired with the ambience of the restaurant, you’re sure to have a delightful meal. 3. The Vitello Piccata is always the right option at Il Granaio…
These days, it seems every other news story is talking about the merits (or pitfalls) of the low carb, high fat (LCHF) diet, also commonly referred to as the Keto Diet. So what is it and should you follow it? In a nutshell, the majority of the calories…
If you were to drive past the alleyway between the new Setting Sun Circle and the Wild Buffalo House of Music on Holly Street, you might catch a glimpse of some wonderful, fresh art. Setting Sun Circle is the Children of the Setting Sun Productions’ (CSSP) new home, a community-minded space that will contain a Salish gallery, a theater, a meditation garden, and much more. The Coast Salish Living Mural was designed and painted by CSSP’s Coast Salish artists…
Chocolate Necessities has been handcrafting chocolates and confections for nearly 40 years, but if you haven’t visited their downtown Bellingham location…
If you want to go above and beyond with your New Year’s resolutions in 2026, consider adding “saving a life” to the list. The good news is you don’t have to learn CPR or go through years of schooling–it’s as easy as scheduling a blood donation appointment! Don’t think your blood is needed? Think again! Annually, 5 million Americans require a blood transfusion, which amounts to one…
IMMUNE BOOST MULE Bright, zesty, and brimming with wellness perks, the Immune Boost Mule is a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail. Blending citrus, ginger, and honey, it delivers bold flavor while adding a dose of nutrients perfect for any season. For an alcohol-free version, omit the vodka and add a splash of sparkling water! Ingredients 2 ounces vodka ½ ounce fresh lemon juice (Vitamin C) ½ ounce fresh orange juice (Vitamin…
PNW Plateful is a Bellingham-based nonprofit that distributes hundreds of handmade, individually-packaged meals to food banks and partner organizations across Whatcom County each week. Over their five-and-a-half years of operation, they’ve distributed more than 124,000 meals. Founder and Executive Director Sarah Chan is also the chef and entrepreneur behind local catering business, Calypso Kitchen. “I always start telling the story of PNW Plateful by…
Tucked away amongst the lush green suburbs of Bow, a menagerie of creatures surrounds a picturesque one-story house. A giant spider resides on the roof, while a full-sized horse, elephant, nesting ostrich, kangaroo with a joey in its pouch, alligator, bulldog, and more share the vast, grassy yard. Joe Treat, a 72-year-old semi-retired insurance agent, is the mastermind who brought these critters to life. Treat sold insurance for over 20 years. When it came time to consider retirement, he…
THE SHOP Since 2005, Three French Hens has been a Fairhaven mainstay, selling upscale women’s attire, jewelry, handbags, and select fragrances. Located in the stately historical building that once housed Fairhaven’s first bank, both the shop and the wares inside transmit comfort and welcoming elegance. Owner Parul Bhathella describes their philosophy: “Centering on quality over quantity—each piece is chosen for its…
Treaty Day, observed on Jan. 22, is the anniversary of the signing of the Point Elliott Treaty in 1855. While the Treaty is in effect every day of every year, marking this day can provide us with a chance to learn about and reflect on what the Treaty is and how we can best honor and uphold it. In the late 1800s, as the United States expanded ever westward, it entered into a number of land acquisition treaties…
Located in the former Fireside Martini & Wine Bar space, MJ’s Martini Bar rekindles the flame with its own special spark. With upscale eats, specialty cocktails, and a boozy Sunday brunch, this new kid on the block is a must-try in the new year. Co-owned by siblings Maurice Christion and Jenna Hansen,…
Last fall, Allied Arts of Whatcom County unveiled their all-new Whatcom County Arts Awards, a program celebrating the individuals and organizations who create or promote the arts in Whatcom County. Scott Ward, president of Allied Arts, gave us insight into the motivation behind the new awards. “From 1978 to 2021, the City of Bellingham celebrated our arts community through the Mayor’s Arts Awards,” he says. “In 2025, the Allied Arts of Whatcom County board felt the absence of…
Quantum Health Pilates & Yoga Lounge has a natural way of drawing people in. With its relaxed environment, it offers visitors of every ability level a place to recharge and nurture their health. More than just a fitness studio, Quantum is a one-stop wellness destination, bringing movement, nutrition, and holistic care together under one roof. “I wanted to create a lifestyle that I could immerse myself in on a…
