The Smith family purchased property in the early sixties and built themselves a home. Mr. Smith did most of the work alongside his father and father-in-law. Mrs. Smith and her preschool son visited daily to watch the men work.  They moved in the day after their home was approved by the building inspector, and they […]

Of all the ways to experience the western states, hiking is the immersive option. Whether you’re exploring national parks or enjoying regional secrets, hiking serves every age.  That doesn’t mean it’s safe, exactly. Engaging with nature means venturing beyond civilized conveniences. All you have is what you bring, and who you’re with informs how far […]

The dripping shower head.  If you’re an arborist you note the colors and placement of flowers outside the window.  If you’re an artist you notice the paintings.  If you’re a scrabble player you notice the dictionary on the shelf.  If you’re athletic you notice the glove and cleats.  If you’re a reader you’re scanning the […]

Every neighborhood has its pests. Whether mosquitoes, mice, wasps, snakes, or centipedes, pestilence is a nuisance. We once lived in a neighborhood beset with rats. Despite our great fondness for Mrs. Frisby and her NIMH friends, we are not rat fans. Scratching in the attic is the opposite of a soothing seaside breeze. When we […]