The field had been mowed and the fragrant hay was rolled up into huge circular bales, wrapped in white plastic, and stacked out of the way. The gate to the field was open with several acres for cars to park. In one corner there was a barbeque going full force and there were tables laden with food and coolers full of wine and soft drinks and water. The day was sunny and bright and many guests choose to relax in the white tent that had been rented for the event.

It was an island wedding, with guests from… read full article

According to a recent study, done at the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, San Juan county beat out all the others in Washington as the healthiest county in the state. This study was based on how healthy residents are and how long they live. It considered health behavior, clinical care, social and economic factors, and physical environment.

Does it feel healthy to live here? That’s an interesting question for someone who has lived here since 1977; therefore someone who is getting older. Still, the answer would have to be affirmative. I… read full article

You don’t want to see a lot of changes in the islands – the quaintness of our surroundings is what makes us so unique and distinct. However, the new Lopez Village Market is a nice change! The new market opened a few blocks down the street from the old store in Fisherman’s Village and has many great updates and new offerings. The new store feels much larger with spacious, well marked isle ways which makes it easy to find what you’re looking for. The addition of Bonnie’s Deli is great – with seating and even a fireplace –… read full article

I had clients from Scottsdale on the island last June. In an attempt to make the property search a leisurely process, they were staying in a vacation rental. Their grandsons would be joining them for the weekend. As the weekend approached, the husband announced he would be taking the boys fishing on Saturday afternoon at which point, the wife invited me to go to lunch that day.

I accepted the invitation, but must admit there were things I would have rather been doing on a glorious Saturday afternoon in June. I struggled with it while driving around the… read full article

Part 2

Every day, millions of dollars in building materials are thrown away. Indeed, the United States and Canada throw away more materials every year than most countries can produce. Doors, windows, insulation, floor coverings, pipe, wire, lumber, light fixtures, appliances – just about everything you would need to build a home! For the people getting rid of it, it’s junk; damaged, leftover, obsolete, not worth saving. But, for you, it may be a different story.

The San Juans are a treasure trove of resources for redecorating, or even building, on a budget. The very nature of these… read full article

Part 1

There seems to be a change in the way people are thinking about true wealth, true happiness, and the homes in which they choose to live. Many Americans find their hearts turning toward visions of a mellower and somehow more fundamental lifestyle.

Many yearn for a simpler life – one more attuned with the natural world, based on pleasures rather than possessions, guided by needs rather than trends. At the same time, we are becoming aware of the earth’s limited resources, and the necessity of doing more with less. These desires dovetail in a way that… read full article

You know spring is here. The garage sale season has begun in earnest with very good Saturday turnouts. It’s a good chance to chat with people and joke about the economy. I’ve been attending these events long enough to sometimes see what I myself sold years ago at someone else’s garage sale! Local charities and causes take the opportunity to do some spring cleaning and raise money for their cause. On an island garage sales are a little different. You often hear, “Yes! Just what I was looking for!” Although the island stores carry most products, a garage… read full article