Experiment with zucchini flowers while there’s still time. They are especially difficult to transport in pristine condition so unless you’ve got a steady supply in your garden, your local farmer’s market is the best bet. The male flowers, those without the squash attached, are preferred for stuffing and should be completely open when purchased. Once the flower closes up, the petals start sticking together and are difficult to separate without tearing. more ›

As Cliff Mass was pointing out during our monsoon yesterday, Sequim (pronounced "skwim" for the newbies) sits in a rain shadow and gets less rain, more sun. But before you move, owners of this Seattle house, check out the neighborhood--KOMO has a story on Sequimmers' distaste for lavender and fuschia paint. The extra sun doesn't seem to be translating to sunny dispositions. more ›