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Home • August 23, 2021

Declutter and Downsize to Simplify Your Life

by Windermere Kingston
old-couple-neighborhood-house

Whether you’re a homeowner who’s ready to downsize or you’d really like to get reorganized and clear out extra stuff, we have some helpful tips for you. Even with an enthusiastic approach, starting the process of decluttering or working toward a more simplified life can feel overwhelming. But with our advice below, you’ll be able to easily make progress and you’ll feel much better.

Start Small and Start Now

You may think you need a large block of time to start decluttering and reorganizing, but you can actually get started today. Simply pick a drawer to go through today, and then maybe pick two tomorrow, and so on. If you prefer time-based tasks, set a timer. Spend 30 minutes a day shredding old documents you don’t need and reorganizing items you do need.

While it can be challenging to determine if your sentimental items go into the “yes” or “no” pile, it is an important part of the process. In the book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, Marie Kondo teaches a decluttering method that has gained popularity worldwide. Also, our article, Tips and Tricks to Get (and Stay) Organized, has additional info about the KonMari Method.

Utilize Technology

If you have boxes of old papers, cards, and/or other mementos and can’t keep them all, don’t forget all the technology we have today to preserve and protect our favorite memories. You can easily take photos of these things and upload them to the Cloud. You can store them on iPhoto, Google Drive, Dropbox, or something similar. While we definitely still appreciate printed photos that are framed or kept in photo albums, having a digital file will give you the peace of mind that you’ll have a safe copy of it. You can easily download and print them or make a slideshow when you have more time. And, digital photo frames are also a great way to treasure a bunch of photos when you don’t have a lot of wall space.

For documents or cards that you’d like to save without having to hold onto boxes of the originals, consider using an app like Genius Scan. Apps like this function as a scanner. So, you can quickly scan documents by using your phone’s camera. From there, you can create a PDF and email it to yourself or others. Additionally, newer iPhones also have this capability built-in through the Notes app. See this guide to using the scanner on your iPhone.

Examine Ways to Finance Downsizing

Since downsizing comes with both buying and selling a home, here are some loan options to assist you if you need to finance your move. From Bridge Loans to a HELOC (Home Equity Line Of Credit), there are some helpful options to consider. Be sure to research them and keep your expectations in check along the way so that you’re fully aware of the process and costs involved. For example, it’s crucial to get an accurate estimate of your home’s current worth. We highly recommend connecting with one of our local experts who can provide a free market analysis.

Consider Space-Saving Furniture

If you currently own a large home and plan to move into a much smaller home like a condo, you may want to start fresh with some space-saving, multifunctional furniture. Wall beds like this one from Costco function as a bed for guests and as a desk for your home office. Need some extra storage space? This Crate and Barrel bench is a nice option that can add to your room’s aesthetic. Coffee tables like this Wayfair option can turn into a desk. There are many furniture options to consider that will fit your lifestyle and maximize space.

 

Home • July 27, 2021

Easy Summer Dinner Party Recipes

by Windermere Kingston
summer dinner party

Summer is the perfect time to host a dinner party so we’ve compiled some delicious recipes that are sure to please a variety of guests. We’ve included ideas for appetizers, desserts, and everything in between, using seasonal ingredients like basil, watermelon, raspberries, and blackberries. 

Appetizers

Eggplant Parm Bites

 

Enjoy the Italian taste of eggplant parmesan in small little bites by using phyllo dough. This is a great addition to any outdoor dinner party or potluck. It’s also fun to make and if you have young children, they can easily help you spoon the eggplant mixture into the muffin tin. In 45 minutes, you’ll have a wonderful appetizer ready to go!

 

Caprese Skewers 

 

Take a classic Caprese salad and turn it into a fun finger food delight in just a few minutes. These skewers are both tasty and perfect for groups. 

 

Drinks

Non-Alcoholic Sangria

sangria

 

A non-alcoholic version of a fun summer drink, this sangria recipe goes with many dishes. The fruity flavors will attract a range of guests and there’s a bit of spice to enjoy in it as well. 

Frozen Watermelon Margarita

watermelon

These frozen watermelon margaritas pack a refreshing burst of flavor. And, this cocktail only requires a few ingredients so you won’t be searching around for ingredients at multiple stores. Don’t forget to leave a few little watermelon slices to use as a garnish!

Sides

Summer Strawberry Salad

 

A healthy mix of fruit and greens comes together in this sweet and tangy salad featuring a summer favorite: strawberries. Salads are the perfect side dish, and this one could even serve as an entree if you add grilled chicken or shrimp to it.

Carrots with Pesto and Ricotta

 

Add a splash of color into your summer spread with these roasted carrots topped with pesto and ricotta. While you’re probably used to making pesto as a pasta sauce, why not using it to brighten up your veggies?  This nutritious dish is easy to make and only takes about 30 minutes.

Entrees

Cedar Planked Salmon with Maple Glaze

This salmon dish will be the show stopper of the evening. This recipe takes a bit more work, but the results will satisfy. Using a plank of non-treated western red cedar gives the salmon a smokey flavor. Additionally, the maple glaze on top of the salmon brings together just the right touch of sweetness. 

Pulled Pork with Mango BBQ Sauce

 

Enjoy a twist on a summer classic by making pulled pork sandwiches with Aarti’s mango BBQ sauce. Aarti infuses this recipe with Indian flavors and you can make it as spicy or as mild as you’d like. It’s a great recipe for the whole family and would be a fun meal to enjoy outside on your deck or balcony.

Dessert

Blackberry Cheesecake Squares

Blackberry season is upon us! This blackberry cheesecake recipe is a great way to end a dinner party, especially here in the Pacific Northwest where blackberries are all around us. We love that the crust is made with vanilla wafers to change up the taste of cheesecake just a bit to really make it memorable. The only problem with these bite-sized squares is that they’ll be gone in a flash.

Rose Water Panna Cotta with Raspberry and Lychee

 

Finish off the night with this delightful rosewater panna cotta garnished with tangy raspberries and sweet lychees. The floral flavor of this silky dessert will enchant your guests and leave them wanting more.

Home • Sellers • June 22, 2021

7 DIY Projects to Increase Curb Appeal

by Windermere Kingston

DIY landscaping projects are a lot of fun and very rewarding. They also increase your home’s curb appeal. What exactly is “curb appeal”? To put it simply, it’s the general attractiveness of a property from the sidewalk, and a prospective buyer’s initial impression. Whether you’re thinking of selling or you’re simply wanting an updated look, increasing your curb appeal is a great way to give your home a boost. Here at Windermere, we’re fans of easy DIY projects that enhance your home in many ways. So, we compiled seven ideas to get you started. 

1. Gardening

Adding interesting plants and flowers quickly livens up a home’s exterior. You definitely want to do a bit of research to ensure that the plants you choose will do well in our Zone 8b climate. Tulips, daffodils, cherry and plum trees are beautiful bloomers in early spring. In late spring, we love seeing vibrant rhododendrons, phlox, and Pacific dogwoods, to name a few. Lavender, hydrangeas, and dahlias are all gorgeous summer additions to your yard or porch. In fall, chrysanthemums, asters, and helenium are easy to grow and add a bit of cheer to colder, gray days. If you’d like to spruce up an area with some foliage, consider heucheras (also known as coral bells), hostas, and ferns. For more ideas, check out this list of 15 perennial plants for our area.

2. Maintaining Green Lawns

If you don’t have a green thumb, simply maintaining a green lawn will make your home significantly more attractive. In fact, mowing, trimming, and fertilizing the lawn will improve the natural color of the grass. This, in turn, will brighten up the house. Weeds and moss are also commonly complained about in our area. If moss has been an issue for you, you’ll want to tackle it in late winter or early spring. For weeds, it’s important to first identify which types of weeds are your primary source of frustration. Next, create a plan of action. Check out this list of tips and tools to help you out. 

3. Pressure Washing

While we love the Pacific Northwest’s incredible greenery, we’re not fans of mildew, which can be a problem here. Pressure washing your driveway, sidewalks, and siding (if it’s made with vinyl, aluminum or fiber cement) are easy ways to clean up your home’s exterior. Here are some tips on what to clean and what to avoid when pressure washing.

4. Consider Painting

A fresh coat of paint on your home can go a long way. Although this DIY project is much more extensive and will require more planning, the results are sure to impress neighbors and potential buyers. Our advice is to select your color palette in advance, testing out actual samples vs. relying on swatches. For a smaller-scale project, consider painting your front door. Watch the video below to see how it can be done over three days. 

5. DIY Landscape Edging

A cost-effective and straightforward way to organize your lawn is using bricks or rocks to section off garden areas and flower beds. These garden edges will bring your home’s aesthetic together and give it a more organized look. Additionally, there are plenty of edging options to choose from, so it’s easy to find one to fit your style.

6. DIY Pathways 

Adding a pathway through your yard can make it more inviting, artfully leading guests from the front yard to the back, or around to a vegetable garden, gazebo, or hot tub. Not only will it give it a more organized look, but it can help draw attention to a certain area like a special bench or a favorite flower bed. Check out these thrifty pathway designs to get started on this fun DIY project.

7. Outdoor Lighting

Finally, we can’t forget about how your home looks in the evening. Having some warm yellow lights illuminating your walkway invites people in and welcomes you home on dark winter nights. Solar-powered LED lights are a great option. To get started, watch this video with landscape lighting ideas.

 

 

Community • June 17, 2021

Community Service Day at Kingston’s Boy Scout Hall

by Windermere Kingston
Kingston agents volunteering

June 11th marked one of our favorite Windermere traditions: Community Service Day (CSD). We always enjoy going out into the community and helping out. This year was especially fun since we weren’t able to participate last year due to COVID-19. Last Friday, we helped clean up the Boy Scout Hall in Kingston. Read on to find out more about what we were able to accomplish.

The History of Community Service Day

Every year since 1984, all Windermere offices close on Community Service Day and we spend the day volunteering in the wonderful communities we serve. From helping prepare Coffee Oasis for their Kingston opening to volunteering at the Village Green, we love giving back. We’re proud of this collective effort and the impact it has had. Windermere’s offices are located in 10 states and we have collectively logged over 1,000,000 community service hours.

CSD at Kingston’s Boy Scout Hall

After years of fundraising efforts, it’s finally possible to start renovating the Boy Scout Hall. Since the 1960s, the Hall has served as a haven for local young men. The Boy Scouts of America’s mission is to “prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices”, focusing on values such as loyalty, kindness, trust, and bravery. While many locals love this historic place and the Boy Scouts, the structure itself needs repairs. Thankfully, our Kingston North Kitsap Rotary Club stepped in to restore it. The area around the building needed to be cleaned up. 

So, on Community Service Day, we helped restore the area around the Hall in Kola Kole Park. That included the grove of trees next to the Hall, which were planted to remember local, fallen soldiers of WWII. “We also bought materials and built a woodshed to store firewood for Scout Hall, its only source of heat,” explained Jet Woelke, Managing Broker. “The area had been neglected and overrun with weeds.”

Everyone really enjoyed getting to come together in person and help with this important project. Connecting with the community was a personal highlight for Jet. “It was great to talk to people passing by on the sidewalk and hear them comment on how much they appreciated what we’re doing.”

To get a glimpse of our work as well as the work of our colleagues at our other local Windermere offices, check out our video!

Community • May 10, 2021

The Decorated History of Kingston’s Fast Ferry

by Windermere Kingston

When Kitsap Transit established the Kingston Fast Ferry to Seattle in 2018, residents were delighted to be able to travel to Seattle in just 40 minutes. This passenger-only vessel dramatically reduced commute times. It also invited Seattleites to easily explore Kingston and the surrounding area. But many people aren’t aware of the Fast Ferry’s interesting history, specifically the history of the Finest. So, we wanted to illuminate it.

The Incredible History of the Finest

Originally from New York, the Finest was purchased in January 2018 from New York Waterway. During 9/11, the Finest, along with many other vessels, rescued hundreds of thousands of people. This event is known as “The Great Boatlift.” The Finest was part of a maritime fleet that came together, sailing toward the destruction of the Twin Towers to help terrified, soot-covered people.

After almost nine hours of back and forth trips, these ferries, ships, and private boats collectively evacuated nearly 500,000 people. The Finest is named that after New York City’s finest. To travel on the Finest is to travel on a piece of history, a vessel that reminds us of a moment when people came together to help one another.

Becoming a Kitsap Fast Ferry

Over the years, the Finest had been run hard, so when Kitsap Transit purchased her, she needed significant rebuilding and repairs. She traveled from New York down through the Panama Canal, up the Pacific Coast to Victoria. Then Nichols Brothers Boat Builders refurbished her on Whidbey Island. Kitsap Transit invested over $5.9 million in the Finest in preparation for the Kingston-Seattle route. You can learn more about her journey in Kitsap Transit’s interesting video below.

Small Town Living with Fast Ferry Convenience

Thanks in part to the Finest, more people are now eyeing the Kingston area as a place to live. Many are drawn to our community’s small-town charm and its proximity to Seattle. Nearby Hansville, Port Gamble, Indianola, Suquamish, and Poulsbo also offer a slower-paced life. Commuters enjoy a swift ride on the Finest to downtown Seattle with gorgeous views of Puget Sound and Mt. Rainier. While aboard, keep an eye out for seals and even orcas. Living in the Kingston area while working in Seattle combines the best of both worlds.

We love all that our area offers and we’re proud of historical gems like the Finest.

kingston ferries

Community • April 19, 2021

Community Spotlight: Kingston North Kitsap Rotary

by Windermere Kingston
kingston rotary

Rotary clubs worldwide inspire innovative approaches to community service, and our Kingston North Kitsap Rotary is no exception. They’ve found creative ways to support our community during the pandemic. This local group pioneers new initiatives to support businesses, fundraise for local organizations, and preserve Kitsap’s history. Read on to find out how you can support their efforts. 

Rotary’s Motto in Action

This group’s motto is at the forefront of everything they do, stating that they “take on challenges in our community and beyond.” Kingston North Kitsap Rotary supports vocational experience, service, and leadership. They also engage youth through Interact Club, which involves 12 – 18-year-olds in local and international projects that promote Service Above Self. Our local Rotarians have led a variety of projects from raising $15,000 for Kingston’s Coffee Oasis to installing benches at the Village Green Community Center‘s park. Additionally, they engage in international service projects, including a literacy project in Cambodia and Laos.

“Kingston North Kitsap Rotary Club are people of action. We are neighbors and friends who come together to have fun, enjoy fellowship and provide leadership on important community projects, activities, and events,” says Doug Hallock, a Kingston Rotary board member and Foundation Chair. Doug is also a former Rotary President and a Windermere Kingston Managing Broker who has been affiliated with Rotary since 1983.

Swing For Rotary & Kingston Order Bombers

Most known for their Swing For Rotary event, Kingston North Kitsap Rotary raises funds annually through a golf tournament. This fundraiser benefits Food for Kids, Kingston High School scholarships, North Kitsap’s schools, Senior Meals, Coffee Oasis, community projects and events, and international projects.

Unfortunately, COVID-19 prevented 2020’s annual Swing for Rotary event. However, it is scheduled this year for June 18, 2021, and you can register now.

Rotarians have also been helping local businesses affected by the pandemic. KOB, also known as Kingston Order Bombers, is a group created by the Kingston North Kitsap Rotary Club. Essentially, they partner with restaurants from Hansville to Suquamish, Port Gamble to Kingston. Through this partnership, a group of caring community members supports a business by ordering take-out or making reservations. If you want to participate, email KingstonOrderBombers@gmail.com for more information.

 

Photos from Rotary Kingston North Kitsap.

 

 

Saving Scout Hall

Kingston North Kitsap Rotary is proudly restoring Scout Hall, a piece of Kingston’s history. Structurally, it was not enduring the test of time. Many Kingston residents have fond memories of Scout Hall. It was a hub for young boy scouts to learn essential leadership and life skills. Rather than have it torn down, our local Rotarians stepped in to restore the building. Additionally, they chartered a chapter of Boy Scouts so the program could continue.

“Without a doubt, Kingston Rotary Club is vital to this community! Their latest project to save the Scout Hall was monumental!” says Jet Woelke, Managing Broker. “Scout Hall desperately needed a new roof and structural repairs because it was on the brink of collapsing. If not for the Rotary Club, it would have been demolished. A part of Kingston’s history would be gone!” 

Donate During Kitsap Great Give or Get Involved

From joining the Kingston Order Bombers’ efforts to participating as a golfer in Swing For Rotary, there are many ways to contribute to Kingston North Kitsap Rotary’s work. Right now, you can donate to Kingston North Kitsap Rotary through Kitsap Great Give. This annual event helps hundreds of nonprofits. This year, early giving goes from April 1 – 19 with the big Great Give day happening on April 20, 2021. Local sponsors boost donations, so your donation means even more. You can also give back by becoming a member. It’s a great way for established professionals to make an impact.

Community • February 23, 2021

Community Spotlight: The Coffee Oasis in Kingston

by Windermere Kingston
The Coffee Oasis slogan

With multiple locations in our region, The Coffee Oasis rallies communities together in support of their youth. Their mission? To provide youth with housing and the resources they need to survive and thrive. And, to brew a great cup of coffee while they’re at it! The Coffee Oasis is a nonprofit, faith-based organization that supports and empowers youth who are escaping violence, abuse, homelessness, and poverty. Their programs provide mental health services, job training, and short and long-term housing options, impacting hundreds of teenagers in Kitsap County and beyond.

Community Support

Seeing the need for this great work to be done in Kingston, a group of business leaders set up a steering committee. They asked The Coffee Oasis what it would take to get one set up. First, they needed to find a location and then they had to raise two years’ worth of revenue before being able to open one. The steering committee went to work, raising funds, purchasing the building, and raising awareness. “The community really stepped up to support The Coffee Oasis and the work that is done for youth in Kitsap,” says Cody Clark, the nonprofit’s Kitsap Community Development Lead. 

cody clark coffee oasis staff

Cody Clark is passionate about their work. He even proposed to his wife (also a staff member) at the Port Orchard cafe.

 

Our Windermere agents have also been involved in the development of The Coffee Oasis in Kingston, spending the last couple of Community Service Days working to help prepare for opening day. After eight years of preparation, The Coffee Oasis in Kingston finally opened its doors to the community in 2019. 

Windermere agents helping during past annual Community Service Days in Kingston. 

Perseverance through the Pandemic

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kingston center has been working with between four and twelve teenagers a day and has been hard at work planning COVID-safe events and programs.  “Our staff have had to be innovative during the pandemic!” explains Cody Clark. “Our outreach staff had to make a big effort to find youth, go to them and get the word out that our services are still available.”

 

The end of 2020 saw two holiday events to support youth. “A Night Of Thankfulness” and the annual Christmas Celebration. In November, The Coffee Oasis invited youth for a Thanksgiving dinner with staff and volunteers who wanted to express their love and dedication to supporting young adults in need. They also provided take-away containers to respect social distancing preferences. 

In December, various Coffee Oasis locations held Christmas celebrations while maintaining social distancing guidelines. 172 meals were served and 220 gifts were given to youth through the Family Christmas Project. “At the Kingston Coffee Oasis Christmas party, I witnessed some of our community’s youth receive presents, eat a Christmas dinner, and join in a gingerbread house decorating contest. What a gift to the community!” says Jet Woelke, Managing Broker at Windermere Kingston.

 

 

Recent Successes Here in Kingston

Since the pandemic started, The Coffee Oasis has seen a 150% growth in youth texting their crisis line. Staff members are always available to help youth in crisis, providing the resources and support they seek. “We had a youth in Kingston who was going through a lot, really trying to find themself,” says Cody. “They had support from staff and volunteers as they were trying to figure out who they really were, what they valued, and how they identified. This person came back to thank the staff for their support. This type of impact fuels Coffee Oasis and it strengths our community.”

Connect with The Coffee Oasis

The Kingston center is continually growing with the community’s support. You can stay updated on future events through their events calendar. “Coffee Oasis is making a huge difference for the youth in our community. Stop by and grab some coffee and take-out to support their work,” says Christine Todd, Broker. 100% of the proceeds from their coffee support The Coffee Oasis youth programs. And, one bag of their wonderful organic, fair-trade coffee beans (which you can purchase online) provides one day of a youth’s job internship! It’s an easy, delicious way to show you care.

 

Community • November 23, 2020

Heronswood: Incredible Beauty and a Unique History

by Windermere Kingston
heronswood garden

Nestled in North Kitsap, is Heronswood, a botanical paradise. Originally brought to life in 1987 by Horticulturalist Dan Hinkley and his husband, architect Robert L. Jones, the garden has grown to more than 15 acres of fantastic flora from all around the world. Heronswood is an internationally recognized treasure in the Pacific Northwest, even garnering the attention of Martha Stewart. 

Hinkley’s dream of starting a small nursery, where he could introduce rare and hardy plants to the community, has become a de facto landmark in Kitsap County. He spent the next 20 years developing the estate and traveling worldwide on plant-hunting trips to expand the garden. In 2000, Hinkley and Jones sold the business to W. Atlee Burpee Company. But in 2006 the company filed for bankruptcy. The estate laid dormant until 2012 when it was sold to the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe. 

Together with Hinkley, the S’Klallam Tribe has breathed new life into the garden through a series of tremendous restoration efforts. The Heronswood Garden has become a place for special events, plant sales, and educational programs that speak to the heritage of the garden and the S’Klallam Tribe. 

S’Klallam History

For centuries, the S’Klallam Tribe occupied the shores of Strait Juan de Fuca, Admiralty Inlet, and Puget Sound. S’Klallam means “strong people”. Although their culture was almost lost after European contact, the S’Klallam have maintained agency over their heritage and traditions. 

Over the past few decades, tribal leaders have made significant efforts to strengthen their community through economic development, establishing an Economic Development Authority to support local businesses through the administration of federal grants.

The acquisition of Heronswood Garden has provided an opportunity for all community members to work together to maintain this local treasure. Since 2012, members of Heronswood staff, the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe, the Heronswood Garden Steering Committee, and dozens of very skilled, dedicated volunteers have teamed up to shape the future of Heronswood. 

Heronswood sign and the S’Klallam Orca Crest. Photos by Leo Phillips.

Legacy and Future

After 35 years and two ownership changes, Heronswood continues to thrive and flourish. It offers an abundance of resources and events for community members to learn more about horticulture. Hinkley, now Director Emeritus, creates and leads many of these events himself. Field Notes is the official blog of Heronswood, where Hinkley and Assistant Director Dr. Ross Bayton write educational blog posts about their experiences foraging around the world. They also have Nature Notes, a video series that features new Garden Director, Dr. Patrick Mcmillan. In this series, you can learn fascinating information about Pacific Northwest shrubs, trees, and more.

Heronswood Nature Notes

Photo from Heronswood’s Nature Notes video series.

Lunchbreak Lectures is an online series of classes that take place virtually over Zoom. Hinkley and Bayton teach these classes. Heronswood also offers pre-scheduled tours lead by experienced garden professionals.

In adherence to current COVID-19 guidelines, masks and facial covers are mandatory. Tourists will be able to use a whisper headset system to listen to the tour guide while maintaining six feet from one another. 

Next spring, Heronswood will be dedicating a stumpery, an artistic display of tree stumps, that recounts the history of the S’Klallam Tribe with the local timber industry. Additionally, they will be adding plant species used in traditional dyeing and weaving for tribal artists to access. The S’Klallam Tribe and Hinkley are ushering in a new chapter for Heronswood, bringing people from all over Kitsap County and beyond to experience the unparalleled beauty of the botanical garden and S’Klallam Tribe.

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