It was winter 2013, and I was on a sea kayaking expedition on Lake Pend Oreille.I had just spent a sub-zero night in front of a fire on a frozen and deserted beach on the southern end of the lake and was now paddling my way beneath the breathtaking and humbling cliffs that tower precipitously below Bernard Peak, in the Coeur d’Alene Mountains.As I looked up at the rock faces, I immediately noticed that every gully, chute and blank face was covered in a thick glaze of ice. There were massive ice climbs everywhere. As a rock climber, who had just…
Ingredients1 1/2 oz Anejo tequila1 Tbsp cinnamon agave syrup3 dashes orange bitters3 dashes chocolate bittersBordeaux cherry and orange peel for garnishFor the cinnamon agave syrup, bring one cup agave, two cups of water, and 6 cinnamon sticks to a boil on the stove. When it’s boiling, turn it down to simmer for about 30 minutes. When the mixture starts thickening and is very fragrant, you can strain the cinnamon sticks and let it cool. To build the drink, put one tablespoon of the agave syrup in a rocks glass with a cherry and some ice. Muddle the cherry if you…
This modern outdoor hardscape project seamlessly blends elegance with functionality, transforming the hillside yard of this Central Washington home into an oasis.The project, designed by Alderwood Landscapingi in Spokane, is characterized by clean lines and minimalist aesthetics all planned around the stunning view of the Columbia River.“That was a fun project to work on,” said Nick Alexander, Alderwood landscape designer. “It’s pretty amazing out there when you get in that space and look out over the horizon.” Alderwood integrated water and fire elements by strategically positioning a hot tub and firepit to celebrate the expansive river. Entertainment and relaxation zones are carefully…
Whoever says that all youth organizations are struggling hasn’t yet met Alana Hageman and the dedicated parents/co-leaders from Girl Scout Troop No. 4923.Certainly, it’s not news that some youth organizations face challenges finding good help. We’re all busy, right? But sometimes it comes down to just committing to being involved. And with a leader like Hageman, it’s hard to say no. “If there’s something out there, I’ll say, ‘we’re doing it,’ and then the kids are doing it right with us,” said Hageman, troop director. As of this spring, the troop includes 71 girls of all ages and skill levels, representing…