The smoke alarm never sounded. One minute Cynthia Allen was working on her laptop; the next, smoke was rising into the room. A faulty light fixture in the basement below turned Allen’s quiet day of work into panic, loss and more than a … read more

To really understand a place, take a look at its past. Knowing what things were like a century or two ago gives us clues to how we got to where we are today. A trip to the Kitsap History Museum in downtown Bremerton … read more

Ah, Italy! Ancient ruins, century-old churches and basilicas, wonderful restaurants and markets, picture-book scenery, canals, rolling hills, vineyards as far as the eye can see, boutique wineries and friendly people. What’s not to like? Well, it all depends on when you go. If … read more

Keeping the people you love in the conversation and part of any celebration or family gathering is one of the most meaningful things you can do. Have you noticed someone in your family withdrawing to a corner at your family gatherings? Were they … read more

‘Tis the most stressful time of the year. If your plans include being a houseguest — or hosting friends and family — here are a few quick tips to help you be your best. For Houseguests 1. Ask about ground rules in advance. … read more

Holidays are stressful for everyone, but even more so for those who are caregivers to loved ones. Peter Rosenberger, author of “Hope for the Caregiver,” offers these great tips for caregivers to give to themselves for this holiday season and time of visiting … read more

Winter brings long, dark days, and historically humans have found ways to chase away the darkness. The tradition of festooning homes with evergreen boughs, berries and cones dates back to pagan times. In Europe, pre-Germanic people gathered evergreens because they are sturdy, last … read more

The holidays can be the happiest time of the year, but unfortunately, they can also be the most dangerous, with more fatal car crashes occurring due to increased travel time, more alcohol use and excessive speed, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety … read more

A passion for gardening is often passed down from generation to generation, and for Dorene Fretwell, that is certainly true. Fretwell has been a certified Master Gardener since 2007 and has used her horticulture knowledge, creativity and intuition to create a beautiful woodland … read more