Inlander Health & Home 12/7/2020

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New Traditions p. 40 SUPPLEMENT TO THE INLANDER

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Inside

DECEMBER 2020 - JANUARY 2021

ON THE COVER: Young Kwak Photo

Etc.

Health

PG. 8

NORTHWEST WINTERFEST EAGLE WATCHING • BABY SPEAKS SALISH

Home

PG. 22

WINNING AT WINTER • CRAFT KITS MATCHA BENEFITS

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NEW TO YOU • BASEMENT LOUNGING VIRTUAL TOURS

BEACON HILL SHINES EFFERVESCENT OPTIONS

Family

People

TIME FOR NEW TRADITIONS MUST READS FOR PARENTS

WATERCOLOR WONDERS

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FROM THE EDITOR SPOKANE • EASTERN WASHINGTON • NORTH IDAHO also at inlander.com/health&home

Stay Connected Email Health & Home Editor Anne McGregor at annem@inlander.com.

The conversation continues on the Inlander Facebook page, and stay in touch with us at Inlander.com/Health&Home.

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1227 W. Summit Parkway, Spokane, Wash. 99201 PHONE: 509-325-0634

EDITOR Anne McGregor

annem@inlander.com

MANAGING EDITOR Jacob H. Fries ART DIRECTOR Ali Blackwood EVENTS EDITOR Chey Scott

In the Moment

BY ANNE McGREGOR

A

mong the many challenging facets of the pandemic is that time has taken on a strangely fluid nature. Days dissolve into weeks, weeks into months. In fact, the makers of the Oxford English Dictionary are recognizing a brand new word for this effect: Blursday.

Time’s strange new dimension has provided a not-always-welcome abundance of opportunities to practice living in the moment. I’m trying to pause and appreciate things it was easy to take for granted or scarcely notice in the past: a fresh weekly load of groceries to fill the fridge and restock the pantry, the clouds parting long enough for a sun-dappled walk, an outdoor chat with a neighbor. And it’s a good time to find ways to share any of our own abundance — whether food or clothing or just a happy thought — with someone who’s having a more difficult time.

Still, there’s no doubt: The struggle with COVID-19 continues, and it’s challenging to find things to look forward to. “Winning at Winter” (page 10) explores ways to embrace this season of cold weather and social distance. And in “New to You” (page 22), Carrie Scozzaro takes us inside the world of “upcycling” for a crash course on how to repurpose and personalize vintage furniture. We’d love to share the projects you’re pursuing to pass the time — drop us an email at healthandhome@inlander.com.

CONTRIBUTORS Stacey Aggarwal, LeAnn Bjerken, Wilson Criscione, Christopher Frisella, Jonathan Hill, E.J. Iannelli, Young Kwak, Robert Maurer, Dan Nailen, Carrie Scozzaro, Matt Thompson, John R. White DESIGN & PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Wayne Hunt ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Kristi Gotzian MARKETING DIRECTOR Kristina Smith ADVERTISING SALES Autumn Adrian, Mary Bookey, Jeanne Inman, Rich McMahon, Claire Price, Carolyn Padgham-Walker, Wanda Tashoff, Emily Walden SALES COORDINATION Jess Kennedy, Houston Tilley DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Jessie Hynes, Derrick King, Tom Stover

Take care!

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Frank DeCaro

CONTRIBUTORS

BUSINESS MANAGER Dee Ann Cook CREDIT MANAGER Kristin Wagner PUBLISHER Ted S. McGregor Jr. GENERAL MANAGER Jeremy McGregor

CARRIE SCOZZARO was inspired as she reported on Beacon Hill Catering & Events — a family-owned business — for this issue (page 34). “Like many companies they were hit hard on several fronts from the pandemic. Yet they have persevered, taking time out of their continual retooling efforts to share their story and recipes with us.”

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E.J. IANNELLI As someone whose extended family lives on the opposite coast, E.J. was pleased to hear ideas about preserving family traditions in ways that can transcend distance (page 40). He was also encouraged by the thought that all traditions have a starting point — so why not start something new?

Health & Home is published every other month and is available free at more than 500 locations across the Inland Northwest. One copy free per reader. Subscriptions are available at $2.50 per issue: call x213. Reaching Us: Editorial: x261; Circulation: x226; Advertising: x215. COPYRIGHT All contents copyrighted © Inland Publications, Inc. 2020. Health & Home is locally owned and has been published since 2004.

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DECEMBER 2020 - JANUARY 2021

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EVENTS

Northwest Winterfest R

emember the glowing splendor of the Chinese Lantern Festival in Riverfront Park several years back? Spectacular pieces similar to that event’s gem-hued fabric lanterns have returned to the region this holiday season for the new Northwest Winterfest, hosted in Spokane Valley at the Mirabeau Park Hotel. Lanterns, including playful pandas, magical reindeer and a majestic

Spokane Public Library Virtual Storytime

Families can cozy up together safely at home, maybe with a soft blanket, favorite stuffed animal and some hot cocoa, to enjoy the Spokane Public Library’s weekly children’s storytime held every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday morning through the end of the year, and possibly into 2021. It’s super easy to tune in and find out which picture book the SPL’s children’s librarians will be reading each day; simply head to the library’s Facebook page and go to the videos tab, where past readings are also archived for more storytime fun. Tue-Thu at 10 am through Dec. 17 (except holidays). Free. Online; details at spokanelibrary. org/storytime; streaming at facebook.com/spokanelibrary.

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dragon, are displayed in the hotel lobby alongside festively decorated Christmas trees. Stop by to brighten winter’s dark days at this new event, which is set to return in 2021 at Mirabeau Meadows Park. Through Jan. 2, open daily. Free to view. Mirabeau Park Hotel & Convention Center, 1100 N. Sullivan Rd., Spokane Valley. northwestwinterfest.com (924-9000)

Yoga With Dogs

There’s one more opportunity remaining this year to spend a morning doing some restorative yoga alongside the equally restorative effect of being around a bunch of adorable, adoptable dogs. The last of Higher Ground Animal Sanctuary and Lilac Lotus Yoga’s Yoga With Dogs sessions allow a limited number of guests to convene for an hourlong class, followed by coffee, tea and some pup snugs.

Make sure to preregister early, as each session can only seat five participants. If you miss the chance to sign up or can’t go, consider making a donation to the nonprofit animal rescue. Sat, Dec. 19 at 9 am and 10:30 am. $15. Higher Ground Animal Sanctuary, 16602 N. Day Mt. Spokane Rd. lilaclotusyoga. com/events.

Paint & Sip with Megan Perkins

You’ve seen her whimsical watercolors of iconic regional landmarks in the pages of local magazines, on gallery walls and more; maybe you’ve even hoped to someday take a class with the prolific watercolorist Megan Perkins. Your next chance is coming up soon, when Perkins teams up with the Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture for a session teaching tips and techniques to improve your own impressionism painting skills. Seating for the class is limited, so don’t wait to sign up. (If it can’t be held in person, the session will move online.) Thu, Jan. 21 from 5:30-8 pm. $18-$55. Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture, 2316 W. First Ave. northwestmuseum.org (456-3931)

Author and artist Emma Noyes.

YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

Speaking Up Nurturing the revival of a nearly-lost language

E

mma Noyes’ first idea for BABY SPEAKS SALISH was a podcast, in which the young mother would share maybe five new words she learned each week. But a lack of technical know-how and the hectic household that comes with small children waylaid those plans.

Lucky for us, because in turning her idea into a new book, Noyes is able to explore ideas and history in a way much more compelling than would have been possible in a five-minute clip.

Baby Speaks Salish: A Language Manual Inspired by One Family’s Effort to Raise a Salish Speaker is a delightful journey for a reader

whether or not they are interested in actually learning Salish alongside Noyes. Published

by Spokane imprint Scablands Books and supported by a Spokane Arts grant, the project blends vocabulary lessons, enchanting illustrations from Noyes, and sections that address the potency of learning a language that the author’s family had largely abandoned as a means of survival.

“In our communities, language was physically beaten out of children,” Noyes told me in a conversation about her book. “Children were removed from their families and placed in boarding schools, or attended day schools where they were shamed. They were fed a

steady diet of shame around their language and their identity as Native people. And we see those detrimental effects today in both educational outcomes and health outcomes in Native communities.”

The book has sections based around subjects like colors, family members, meals, seasons and clothes, and delightful illustrations alongside words and phrases like “did you pee?” and “ice cream.” The Salish she uses is the Colville-Okanagan dialect, and Noyes includes the American phonetic alphabet notes she used herself while she learned the words.

Baby Speaks Salish is a beautifully rendered practical guide to words important for parent-child interactions, but it’s also an interesting lens into community, a parent-child relationship and the trauma associated with language. And if you buy a copy, $2 of every sale goes to the Salish School of Spokane, a local nonprofit school working to keep Salish alive.

— DAN NAILEN

OUT AND ABOUT

Eyes on Eagles

M WILSON CRISCIONE PHOTO

ajestic bald eagles flock to Lake Coeur d’Alene every winter, and you can catch a glimpse from the lake itself. Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises offers special cruises to the eagles’ kokanee salmon hunting grounds, Saturdays and Sundays in December, and daily from Dec. 26 to Jan. 3. (Visit cdacruises.com.) Or to view the birds from shore, the Bureau of Land Management recommends three locations: Higgins Point, the Mineral Ridge boat ramp or Mineral Ridge trailhead. Take exit 22 from I-90 to Wolf Lodge Bay and then head south on highway 97. Park off the main road and bring binoculars.

— ANNE McGREGOR DECEMBER 2020 - JANUARY 2021

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Winning at Winter The onslaught of cold weather and a prolonged pandemic mean keeping a healthy outlook is going to require some creativity

BY LEANN BJERKIN

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BY LEANN BJERKEN

H

ere in the Pacific Northwest, we’re accustomed to long, cold, dark winters, but this year’s pandemic means the snowy season may be a little, or a lot, harder to handle.

As temperatures plummet and virus cases surge, it may indeed seem easier to just crawl into a den and hibernate until spring. But this year’s challenges may actually be the perfect time to change up how we think about winter.

Maintain social distance at your outdoor gathering by seating family members together on one side of your outdoor fire.

Gathering Normal, indoor, festive and beloved wintertime holiday gatherings are probably not going to be possible this year, and that’s just something we’ll have to accept. But what if we reconsidered bringing back the safer, socially distanced backyard get-togethers we enjoyed in warmer months?

Once you’ve decided to embrace the cold, the first thing you’re going to want is

a source of heat. This can come in many forms: a fire pit, fire table, bonfire, or patio heater. And there’s no reason to limit yourself to just one warm gathering spot.

“Fire pits come in all styles and sizes, and you can use them in a covered porch or out in the open,” says Dave Jacobs, is the owner of Jacobs Custom Living, a Spokane-based business which specializes in quality outdoor furniture and accessories.

“If you have a covered porch, and a way to circulate the air, a firepit can actually heat the area quite well.”

He says this year, as people have been building new homes or remodeling parts of their current homes, many are adding cov-

ered decks because they’ve realized it opens up a space that’s usable year-round.

Even with a heat source, keeping guests warm and comfortable means you need to think about insulation. Add cushions to wooden or metal chairs, and offer colorful throws for guests to wrap up in. Or you might consider a seasonal update by incorporating hay bale seats covered with fluffy blankets for a rustic gathering.

For an outdoor meal, set up a buffet in a tent or gazebo space, and decorate with hanging lights for added ambiance.

A picnic table loosely draped with a pretty blanket adds to the cozy vibe; top it with a centerpiece crafted from simple materials

...continued on next page

DECEMBER 2020 - JANUARY 2021

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Nestle into a winter reading session with a furry companion and warm blanket.

“WINNING AT WINTER,” CONTINUED... like pine cones and branches twined with tabletop LED lights or nestled with candles in a bucket of snow.

When it comes to food and drinks, look for items that don’t require a lot of prep or fancy plating, but instead are hearty and help guests warm up inside. Slow cookers brimming with soup or chili, and casseroles served in chafing dishes are easy to make in advance and keep warm while socially distanced partygoers move through the buffet.

For drinks, make it bring-your-own, and it’s the perfect occasion for seasonal favorites like spiced apple cider and hot chocolate which, should you desire, can be made more festive by adding alcohol.

Mulled wines, Irish coffee and hot toddies will be popular with adults.

To add to the fun, consider games guests could play fireside — from old-fashioned, low-tech favorites like charades to online games like Psych! that allow everyone to get out their phones and play along while staying toasty under a lap blanket.

But keep in mind that moving around will help guests stay warm, so consider a brisk walk so you can keep your space in case you are with people not living with you..

It’s important to make sure your guests know in advance that you’re hosting an outdoor gathering and that they’ll need to wear warm clothes and boots. Add a little fun by choosing a theme revolving around

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a color or pattern for outerwear or encouraging silly hats and scarves.

Nesting Let’s be real. We’re going to be spending a lot of time indoors, with just a few people, for quite a while. And it’s OK to be OK with that.

In fact, the Danish, who experience long, cold, dark winters just like ours, have a word for the feelings of winter’s cozy, charming contentment: hygge. (English speakers approximate the difficult pronunciation as “hoo-gah” or “hue-gah.”)

“If you’re interested in hygge, the library has some great books to help you learn about it,” says Spokane County Library public services manager Gwendolyn Haley.

Though hygge isn’t concisely translated into English, the elements include togetherness, relaxation, indulgence, presence and comfort. It starts by creating the right atmosphere.

To set the scene this winter, try adding some new wood accents to a room, along with plants and extra light. Natural objects help bring the outside in, and extra light lifts your mood. Then indulge in scattering soft textures in the form of blankets and

rugs, and fill the air with pleasant scents from candles or incense. These elements combine to create the feel of coziness and also activate pleasant memories.

Consider carving out a nook or a small space that’s just your own for reading and relaxing. Having your own special place instantly sets a soothing mood.

Add some sparkle to the muted environment by choosing clothing crafted in soft fabrics with bright colors and playful patterns. These will keep you warm inside and out.

Haley says hygge resonates so well because it speaks to the activities people do during winter months to care for both themselves and their families.

“Some of those activities like baking, cooking and crafting are things the library is offering programs on this winter,” she says. “And we’ve seen a lot of interest already, especially with families looking to do more together and make their homes cozy.”

With library locations closed due to coronavirus, the district has switched its activities to virtual settings, and added curbside pickup for books.

“If you’re not sure what book you’d like to read or check out, you can fill out a survey online, and we’ll use that to create a list of suggested titles for you,” she says.

“If you’re looking for a new hobby, we also offer a program called Creativebug that allows you to watch online art and crafts classes.”

Haley says other programs offered online through the library district include classes on using that ubiquitous Instant Pot, meal planning, winter gardening, financial education and art projects. There’s even a cake-baking challenge.

The library also hosts author visits with area writers, trivia events and read-aloud story time videos for children.

“Reading together is a great activity in winter, especially with the little ones,” Haley says. “It’s also a good time to learn board or card games and engage together as a family.”

In December, Haley says the library has planned another session of it’s Read-A-Rama program, an online camp with themes based on books with related crafts, music and game activities.

“This January we’re planning a tea blending and book pairing program online as well,” she adds. “If you’re looking for activities, check out our website and Facebook pages for updates.”

While many of the activities available through the library may seem indoor-fo...continued on page 14

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“WINNING AT WINTER,” CONTINUED...

Read All About It How to Hygge: The Nordic Secrets to a Happy Life by Signe Johansen.

The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living by Meik Wiking.

Making Winter: A Hygge-Inspired Guide for Surviving the Winter Months by Emma Mitchell.

The Hygge Life: Embracing the Nordic Art of Coziness Through Recipes, Entertaining, Decorating, Simple Rituals, and Family Traditions by Gunnar Karl Gíslason and Jody Eddy.

The Cozy Life: Rediscover the Joy of the Simple Things Through the Danish Concept of Hygge by Pia Edberg.

Scandikitchen: Fika & Hygge: Comforting Cakes and Bakes from Scandinavia with Love by Bronte Aurell.

Cozy: The Art of Arranging Yourself in the World by Isabel Gillies.

cused, Haley says cardholders also have the option of checking out a Discover Pass for the week, which enables them to park for free and explore state parks.

“Our partnership with the Washington State Parks Foundation allows members to check out a pass, and enjoy the great natural spaces we have in this area,” she says.

“That’s been a really popular program this year for sure.”

Recreating “We recognize that as it gets darker and colder, mental and physical health are harder to maintain,” says Spokane Parks and Recreation director Garrett Jones. “So it’s been very important to us to find ways to infuse positive activity in a safe way this winter.”

For sporty and outdoor types, our region’s parks and ski areas offer plenty of solo or small group exploration experiences. However, if you’re looking for a

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little help, the Parks department does have recreational programs, activities and even events planned for the city’s outdoor spaces this winter. Although a portion of the programs won’t begin until the city moves into phase three of reopening, some of the new protocols the department has in place for programs and activities include increased sanitizing, modifying activities to maintain distancing, reducing class sizes, requiring participants to wear masks, new check-in procedures and better communication with participants.

“A lot of it is about building public confidence, so they understand we’re able to provide safe activities,” Jones says.

“We’re in constant communication with health officials, and consistently review our programs to ensure we’re not missing anything.”

Winter recreational programs the department is offering include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing tours, including some by moonlight, for smaller groups.

“We’ll also provide a list online of trails at area golf courses and conservation lands that have been groomed for hiking and snowshoeing,” Jones says.

“Our Therapeutic Recreation Services (TRS) will be working with the Mt. Spokane ski program again this year on classes for those participants,” he adds. “Another of our partners, the Corbin Art Center, is also offering classes for smaller groups.”

Jones says the department will continue youth creative programs during the winter as well, including a new favorite, cornhole.

“We’d never offered that particular game before, but it was a surprise hit this summer so we’ll move it indoors this winter,” he says. “We also plan to bring back three-on-three volleyball.”

As to attractions and events in the city’s parks this season, Jones says the department plans to utilize its current tools, such as the renovated pavilion at Riverfront Park, in new ways.

“We had some success over the summer with re-imagining the Fourth of July fireworks as a drive-thru event,” he says. “Many people enjoyed that change, so we hope to build on that with the attractions, events and programs in these colder months.”

One early winter “win” for the department was coordinating with the Spokane Regional Health District on plans to safely reopen the Numerica Ice Ribbon in time for the holiday season.

Jones says the department also continues to work with other regional partners like the Downtown Spokane Partnership and the Public Facilities District for ideas on new events and cross-promotional activities.

He says one idea being considered is an outdoor winter market, that would include participation from area restaurants and local organizations.

“We’re also looking at more passive activities, such as holiday lights, that would allow people to simply walk through and enjoy,” Jones says. “This winter will be much more dynamic as we continue to adapt, so definitely stay tuned for updates.”

“This winter will be much more dynamic as we continue to adapt.”

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Pick up your craft kit at Pinot’s Palette and get creative at home.

JESSICA PERRY PHOTO

Kit and Caboodle Why gather supplies when art kits let you get right to work?

BY CARRIE SCOZZARO

I

n 2020, takeout isn’t just for food.

Local arts organizations are also thinking outside the box, repackaging their programs to fit inside a box. It’s not surprising that craft kit sales have soared since the start of the pandemic. Research shows working on a craft or art project helps reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, but it might be surprising to learn it also increases feelings of empathy and tolerance toward others. And when the project is completed, there’s a burst of dopamine-based satisfaction. Here are some kits to consider.

Art Salvage

Art Salvage packages donated art supplies into kits to get your creative energy flowing. Turn wine corks into a display board or make a stamp that’s the perfect size for gift tags ($8). Know someone who loves the PNW as much as you do? The embroidery kit includes all the pieces to embroider a map of Washington, Oregon, Montana or Idaho on a square of coffee sack burlap

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($20). There’s a collage kit ($10) with a unique assortment of mixed media materials and an “Upcycler’s Notebook” kit ($15) to create your own book for journaling and sketching. Visit artsalvagespokane.com.

Shop online for curbside pickup or shop in person at 1925 N. Ash St.

venture from longtime local artist Ginger Oakes. “Every month has a theme with a clay-to-go kit and a Zoom virtual private class,” says Oakes. For $25, you have a month to complete one seasonal clay project, including firing. For details and to sign up, visit goartstudio.com.

Polka Dot Pottery

Pinot’s Palette

Remember the fun of going to Polka Dot Pottery and picking a piece to paint?

With their to-go kits, you can still do that.

Pottery decoration kits are available at two locations: Northwest Boulevard and Pines Road. Go online to see what pre-made ceramic pieces are available (ranging from $5$70, depending on size), choose your glaze colors and follow the instructions to pick up your materials, drop off your finished work and — voila! — pick up the fired piece just one week later. Visit polkadotpottery. com/kits.

GO Art Studio

GO Art Studio’s “Clay-to-Go” is the latest

Limited group-based painting sessions, wine and beer optional, are offered at 319 W. Sprague in Spokane. You’d rather stay home? There are two options: Order your supplies (or even use your own to reduce cost) and attend a live, virtual painting session. Or, buy a paint kit that includes your supplies and access to the tutorial on-demand. Take-home kits and virtual classes mean kids can now share in the fun.

For a birthday party or to enjoy painting with your besties while safely at home, have everyone pick a kit and join in a virtual get-together. Visit pinotspalette.com/ spokane.

LISTEN UP!

Learning To Get Along

W

e human beings are not very peaceful.

We have been struggling to make peace with ourselves and others for as long as we have wandered the earth. Aristotle said, “Anyone can become angry. That is easy.

But to be angry with the right person, to the right degree, for the right purpose, in the right way, this is not easy.” He wrote this in the fourth century BC! In these difficult times, it is most important that we learn tolerance, compassion and understanding. This is clearly not an easy task or we would have figured it out over all these centuries. But I would like to suggest a place to start: questions. If we seek to understand those whose perspectives, whose policies, whose values differ from ours, we can start with curious questions. As a professional negotiator once said, “The purpose of any negotiation is to create

doubts in the mind of the other person about their point of view.” No one will let you create doubt unless they trust you. And no one will trust you until you understand and respect their point of view.

This is not easy; if it were, the front page of Robert Maurer the newspaper would look very different. But we can start with genuine and basic inquiries about difficult topics.

Practice calmly asking questions such as “What are your thoughts about this?” “How would you think we should deal with this problem?” Try saying, “Please help me understand your ideas.”

The challenge is to truly listen to another’s answers and to put in the effort to see the world through their eyes. If we are to find common ground, then kindness, curiosity and respect are necessary. Benjamin Franklin late in his career realized that approaching others with “decency and politeness” were the necessary conditions for problem-solving. It takes no skill to be harsh, judgmental and dismissive. It takes great courage and wisdom to look for commonalities rather than differences and to see the worth and dignity in each person we encounter whose views differ from our own.

— ROBERT MAURER Robert Maurer is a Spokane psychologist, founder of The Science of Excellence and the author of several books including One Small Step Can Change Your Life.

We focus on major global and national research, to slow progression and improve symptoms for degenerative brain diseases WE ARE CURRENTLY ENROLLING CLINICAL RESEARCH TRIALS FOR:

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) • PD Genetic Testing Huntington’s Disease • Essential Tremor Multiple Sclerosis Please call: 509-960-2818 to learn more about our clinical research trials

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Businesses are working hard to serve customers and stay safe: Support them and you support our region’s recovery.

HURD MERCANTILE

Hurd Is the Word Hurd Mercantile lies slightly off the beaten path. Getting there involves taking a scenic drive through the softly undulating wheat fields for which the Palouse is famous, then pulling into the tiny town of Rockford (pop.

486). Among the five or six buildings that make up its center, you’ll find it, one of the region’s largest and most beloved independent home and garden shops.

The proof of Hurd Mercantile’s appeal lies in the fact that, despite distances both geographic and social, shoppers are remarkably eager to make the trip.

“We have had wonderful traffic flow,” owner

Jill Townsend says. “All of our same customers through the years have come back to support us, and then new customers have made a point to shop at small businesses and joined that effort.

It’s been amazing. Sales have actually been up from last year.”

Although the shop was closed for nearly two months during the early stages of the pandemic, business quickly returned to something close to normal.

“When you first reopen, you have a lot of anxiety and wonder about what it’s going to be like,” she says. “But we have an over-8,000square-foot store, so there’s plenty of room for

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customers to social distance. People are actually enjoying themselves and wearing their masks and doing a good job of getting along with one another. So we’ve been real blessed that way.”

All the same, COVID-19 does seem to have had an effect on buying habits. Townsend says she’s seeing customers shopping for Christmas décor and gifts much earlier this year because of the unpredictability of the upcoming holiday season. Among the vast number of items that Hurd carries, the traditional ornaments, artisan candles, specialty foods, holiday signs and seasonal scarves are some of the most popular.

“Because our store is so large, we have almost every category covered,” she laughs. Unsurprisingly, puzzles are also proving to be one of the store’s most sought-after gift items in 2020.

“The companies we’re ordering from have come up with some cool packaging ideas and cool themes like national parks.”

And unlike the many retailers who’ve felt compelled to put some or all of their inventory online, Hurd has — aside from the occasional telephone order — stayed with the face-to-face, brick-and-mortar model that’s helped it acquire such a devoted following over the past 20 years.

“Sitting home and ordering online is probably more convenient, but you miss out on the whole camaraderie of supporting small business,” Townsend says.

Her sense is that Hurd customers generally prefer “the experience of shopping,” which means “coming down and enjoying the Christmas trees being decorated and the scent of candles in the store.” The complimentary espresso bar, which also features cider and hot chocolate, only adds to the warm, inviting ambience.

Which is all to say, the fact that Hurd lies off the beaten path isn’t a deterrent. It’s actually part of its charm. ◆ Hurd Mercantile is located at 30 S. 1st St., Rockford, 291-4077, facebook.com/hurdmercantileandcompany.

HOME, DECOR & FURNITURE vintage, new and handcrafted items. Representative of over 10 different female owner/ creator business owners under one roof, we are a happy place for our community, customers, friends and family to shop. We are proud to source Pacific Northwest products. We are only 16 minutes west of Spokane on I-90 in the quaint little town where you can always enjoy a walk on the paved path around the lake conveniently located two blocks from our store. 106 S. Lefevre St., 993-1723, farmsalvation.com

THE KITCHEN ENGINE

THE KITCHEN ENGINE ABODE SPOKANE HOME | NORTH SPOKANE Abode Spokane offers a wide variety of home goods for those looking to curate a unique space. Inspired by midcentury design, Abode Spokane stocks several on-trend items with new products coming in almost daily.

Although our staples include houseplants, wicker decor, midcentury modern furniture and handmade goods, you’ll definitely find one-of-a-kind statement pieces to complement you and your style! Abode Spokane is passionate about the safety of our customers, which means all areas are cleaned and sanitized regularly. Masks are required while shopping, and customers are encouraged to social distance while visiting. 2321 N. Monroe St., 475-5847, facebook.com/ AbodeSpokane

tables and unique signs to create your own fun space... Everyday great values! 9312 N. Division St., 919-4806, casualspacesfurniture.com

DAVENPORT HOME STORE BOUTIQUE | DOWNTOWN The story of Davenport Home is one of passion for the finer things in life such as the finest linens and the exclusive Davenport Bed. Also nestled in the Home Store is Davenport Confections. Each batch of gourmet soft peanut brittle is handmade in the Historic Davenport Hotel kitchen using the finest of ingredients and pulled on a marble slab, the old-fashioned way. We are open for business seven days a week. 10 S. Post St., 789-7222, davenporthome.myshopify.com

FARM SALVATION BOUTIQUE | MEDICAL LAKE Farm Salvation provides an eclectic variety of

HOME | NORTH SPOKANE The Frickle family opened the Kitchen Engine on Aug. 3, 2006, and it has been an amazing journey since then. Eric and his partners brought an open mind and lots of creativity to this amazing store. Their goal was to furnish all chefs, cooks and wannabe cooks with the very best in kitchen gadgets, cookware and appliances.

And that is exactly what has happened. Visit the Flour Mill and you’ll be lured into the store with delicious aromas of coffee brewing, fresh spices, tea and some treat simmering away on the cooktop in the demo kitchen. Come to the Kitchen Engine and “Discover Your Inner Chef.”

621 W. Mallon Ave., 328-3335, thekitchenengine.com

LA-Z-BOY FURNITURE GALLERIES HOME • NORTH SPOKANE Locally owned La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries store is the only retailer of La-Z-Boy furniture in Spokane County. Our delivery crew always uses masks, gloves and booties before entering our customers’ homes. They are very careful to ensure the safety of each customer and the crew. 10205 N. Division St., 465-4380, la-zboy.com/spokane

...more on next page

CASUAL SPACES FURNITURE HOME | NORTH SPOKANE Casual Spaces Furniture gives shoppers a fun, casual, no-pressure shopping experience.

We have everything to fill your home with a great selection of furniture and decor. Have a bar/rec room? We have bars, sports-themed

Read about more local businesses and how you can be a part of Back To Business at

btb.inlander.com

ABOUT Back to business • These pages are part of a local marketing effort in support of the hospitality sector brought to you by leading institutions and businesses to help promote the Spokane County economy, supported in part by Cares Act funding. With the goal of balancing commerce and public safety, you can follow along here in Health & Home, in the Inlander, and via the links below, as local restaurants, shops and more share their stories and invite your support.

more to come • Through the end of the year, watch the Inlander, along with Health & Home, for special Back To Business guides, along with special editorial sections, sharing more recovery stories and community business features.

Safe business practice resources KindnessNotCovid.org • Financial resources for businesses InlandBizStrong.org APRIL - MAY 2018

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HOme, decor & furniture MARILYN'S ON MONROE ANTIQUE/VINTAGE • NORTH SPOKANE A unique and fun store that has the best for less in antiques, vintage, collectibles, specialty items and much, much more. New treasures to discover every week! Come say hello and take a walk back in time at Marilyn’s On Monroe! We provide free masks and sanitizer to everyone who may need it. All staff always wear masks for protection. Find us on Facebook. 3111 N. Monroe St., 474-1556

LIBERTY ACRES MERCANTILE BOUTIQUE | SPOKANE VALLEY We are a winsome, locally owned, new store with “Something for Everyone!” Toys, arts, crafts, fabrics, thread, quilting materials, antiques, books, hats, birdhouses, collectibles, decorations, antique kitchen, pictures, clothes… You name it!

18223 E. Appleway Ave., 414-0051, libertyacresmercantile.com

OVER THE MOON RELICS VINTAGE | NORTH SPOKANE Over The Moon Relics buys and sells new, gently used and secondhand sentimental and collectible items. We sell many different items that range from old and new toys, vintage radios and records of all genres, to beer memorabilia. We just had our first-year anniversary and would love to share our relics with you. We provide weekend hours for your convenience, or if you want to miss the crowds, we have late hours during the week.

604 W. Garland Ave., 998-7660, facebook. com/OvertheMoonRelics

SCULPTURED GARDENS GIFTS/GARDEN | SPOKANE VALLEY Sculptured Gardens is a year-round gift shop, garden center and nursery, and we share our customers’ passion for the outdoors, nature, gardening, pets, art and artistry. Shop here first for unique plants and gift items you won’t find anywhere else! Our garden center is stocked full with everything you need to be successful, both in the garden and with indoor houseplants. We also offer reduced-capacity workshops and classes.

In addition to the state’s re-opening guidelines including masks and extra sanitization, we are also offering online ordering of select items, phone ordering and curbside pickup for all items. 15614 E. Sprague Ave., 290-6866, sculptured-gardens. com

THE TIN ROOF

The Hanley Legacy Goes On The Sprague Union District is an up-and-coming shopping destination, with historic character and a number of great places to stock up on furniture and decor. Leading among those has long been Tin Roof Furniture, owned by local design maven Heather Hanley. But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find the Hanley family has been tending the neighborhood since 1945. The roots run deep.

Now she’s building on the legacy even more by opening a third shop, Bide and Burgeon, in the very building where her grandfather started it all.

“My grandfather and his young bride, Arch and Helen Hanley, moved out to Spokane in 1943,” writes Hanley on the Bide and Burgeon website. “He served in the Army Air Force stationed at Fairchild, originally called Geiger Field or Galena to the locals. Having

both been raised on farms in Missouri during the Great Depression, the allure of the lush green landscape and sweeping vistas of the mountains of Spokane inspired them to put down roots. On October 15, 1945, Arch Hanley opened ACME Electric to sell and service small electronics.”

This October, 75 years to the day later, Hanley opened Bide and Burgeon at 1730 E. Sprague Avenue, joining Tin Roof and Reskued on what could be called Hanley Street.

The focus of Bide and Burgeon is “accessibly priced” items, so no special order pieces, says Hanley, who is stocking the 4,000-square-foot showroom to the hilt and keeping a large inventory of quick-ship items.

“You can spend a whole afternoon there,” Hanley says. After all, the Hanleys have spent 75 years there, too. ◆

Follow up-to-date info at btb.inlander.com 20

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liver function, as well as protection from certain cancers. Most of these studies, however, were done on isolated tissue in a lab rather than in humans, so take them with a grain of salt (or sugar).

Weaknesses

SUPERFOOD

Matcha Benefits Matcha green tea is a unique product from Japan, and it’s packed with nutrients and antioxidants Attributes

Matcha is grown from the same plant as common green tea, known as Camellia sinensis, but this doesn’t mean that matcha and green tea are one and the same. Matcha is grown with special techniques by Japanese farmers. The plants are shielded from sunlight for three to four weeks before harvesting, which increases phytonutrient concentration and chlorophyll, giving this tea its unique bright green hue. Veins and stems are then removed from the tea leaves, and the remaining thin skin is dried and ground into a fine powder.

Super Powers

In the weeks when the tea leaves are shielded

from sunlight, the plant ramps up its nutrient production — pumping its leaves full with catechins and other nutrients. Catechins are a powerful natural antioxidant that neutralize damaging free radicals in the body. The catechins in matcha have been found to be up to 137 times more concentrated than in other green teas.

Additionally, since matcha tea is consumed as a fine powder of the whole leaf, no nutrients are lost by removing the leaves after steeping as with other teas. One study done in humans found that 4 grams of matcha increased cognitive functions like alertness, memory and reaction time compared with an herbal placebo. Other studies have linked green tea extract to improved brain and

The Sunshine Vitamin Should I take a Vitamin D supplement as a preventive measure against COVID-19?

S

everal studies have suggested that this may not be a bad idea, but there are many variables to consider. Here’s the evidence so far. One study in Spain reported that 80 percent of the COVID-19 patients in the hospital conducting the study had deficient vitamin D levels. The Mayo Clinic did a study of 489 individuals being tested for COVID-19. They reported that patients who had a vitamin D deficiency were more likely to test positive.

One small study looked at high dose vitamin D supplementation in patients who were hospitalized with COVID-19 and found supplemental

vitamin D was associated with dramatically improved outcomes. Just one out of about 25 patients who received vitamin D required treatment in the ICU, while 13 out of 26 who did not receive vitamin D had to be admitted to the ICU. Another very recent study reported that vitamin D or Omega-3 supplements were associated with a reduction in rates of infection (including COVID-19) in a group of over 2,000 people age 70 years or older.

The possibility is intriguing enough that multiple clinical trials (currently 60 are listed in clinicaltrials.gov) are underway evaluating the impact of vitamin D on COVID-19.

Vitamin D deficiency is common in the Northwest; it’s probably due to the sometimes

Although caffeine can be a lifesaver for some, it can also be a source of jittery anxiety for others.

Matcha also packs more caffeine than common green tea — about 35 milligrams per gram of matcha. So if you’re avoiding caffeine for your health, you might want to think twice about matcha and opt for a caffeine-free herbal tea instead. That being said, matcha also contains a compound known as L-theanine, which has been shown to enhance the beneficial effects of caffeine while decreasing the crash in energy levels later.

How to Use It

In terms of nutrition, matcha is best enjoyed as a tea. Matcha tea is traditionally made by pouring hot water over the powdered leaves and whisking with a specialized bamboo matcha whisk until dissolved.

In addition to tea, people all over the world have gotten creative with this beautiful green powder by baking it into donuts, cakes, cupcakes and more. Matcha mochi (a Japanese rice cake) is a delicious way to use matcha powder — matcha mochi ice cream treats are even available in many local grocery stores.

— STACEY AGGARWAL With a Ph.D. in pharmacology, Stacey Aggarwal writes about biology, health and nutrition while running a lavender farm in North Idaho.

intense cloud cover and resulting lack of solar exposure we experience particularly in the winter. Given the important role we know vitamin D plays in immune function and hundreds of important biochemical reactions in our bodies, the lack of vitamin D toxicity if taken in reasonable doses, and the low cost, it makes sense to consider supplementation. It’s interesting to note that Dr. Anthony Fauci has indicated that he takes supplemental vitamin D (as well as C). If you want to consider taking supplemental vitamin D, please talk to your prescriber or your pharmacist first about an appropriate dose. Vitamin D can be toxic if taken in large doses.

— JOHN R. WHITE John R. White is the chair of the Department of Pharmacology at WSU College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences based in Spokane.

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Find inspiration for your own upcycling projects by taking a stroll through Boulevard Mercantile. YOUNG KWAK PHOTOS

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Health& Home

New to You Vintage furniture gets a fresh start in the hands of savvy DIYers

BY CARRIE SCOZZARO

U

pcycling is a catchy term for what’s actually an age-old penchant for savvy humans: Rather than starting anew, why not just adapt a gently used tool or outdated object into something else?

With that mindset, local upcyclers are searching out castoff furnishings and, using a variety of techniques, refurbishing even the most unlikely items into unique and serviceable treasures that add a personal note to their home decor.

The Thrill of the Hunt

Minus the club and caveman attire, the thrill of the hunt is very much a part of the upcycling process.

“I’ve always had a fondness for all

things vintage and began casually shopping garage and estate sales in my early 20s,” says Sandi Schulte, who sells industrial items, vintage furnishings and home décor, some of which she refinishes, under the name Sandi’s Shabby Shed.

Initially, Schulte only bought items she could use in her own home. After her children were born, she repainted several pieces of furniture for their rooms. But eventually she ended up selling some pieces on Craigslist. And then she was hooked.

“I could do what I loved and make money, too,” says Schulte, who is a vendor at both Spokane’s Paint in My Hair and Tossed and Found, two of a number of regional outlets that share Schulte’s passion for upcycling. ...continued on next page

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Deep teal offsets dark wood (above) or farmhouse cream (right) in these refinished dressers at Midtown Home & Vintage . MIDTOWN HOME & VINTAGE PHOTOS

The fun, says upcycler Megan Eatock, is in the process…

The “cutting section” at Boulevard Mercantile offers an ever-changing selection of unique fabrics for DIYers.

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YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

“NEW TO YOU,” CONTINUED...

In Idaho, Megan Eatock is a kindred spirit.

“It always seems like when we are looking for that perfect piece of furniture/decor to complete the look, we can never find it,” says Eatock, an avid upcycler who created Midtown Home & Vintage Market in Coeur d’Alene, formerly called Junk.

The fun, says Eatock, is in the process — looking for interesting items and considering how to make improvements. Sometimes she’ll find the perfect piece, she says, but sometimes she’ll buy something that isn’t quite right. No worry.

“Luckily with all of the shopping sites such as Facebook marketplace and Craigslist, it’s easy to resell used items if you find something better,” says Eatock, whose Midtown Home & Vintage Market occasionally buys back items to resell.

Spokane offers numerous such outlets and vendor malls, including Boulevard Mercantile, which last year relocated from North Monroe to 1012 N. Washington St. Among their 14 current vendors, Boulevard co-owner Joellen Jeffers says two are avid DIYers: Jennifer Pluid, known for her “party animals” (vintage rubber critters wearing little embellishments), and Jane Wood, whose business goes by Travelled Treasures. ...continued on page 26

With home more important than ever, visit The Tin Roof and work with our talented designers and stylists to help you create a custom look that’s all your own.

FURNISHINGS + LIGHTING & RUGS + ART & DECOR + DESIGN SERVICE

— SHOP T H E T I N ROOF COL L ECT ION —

Reskued.com

TinRoofFurniture.com

@tinroofreskued

@tinrooffurniture

Bideandburgeon.com @bideandburgeon

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25

glass, hooks, pulls, knobs, Scrabble letters and even miniature figurines.

“It always amazes us to see and hear what our customers are creating with the objects they find at Boulevard Mercantile,” Jeffers says.

Selection Savvy

Before (above right) and after. SANDI SCHULTE PHOTOS

That just right pop of color can take your piece from ordinary to ‘Oh, my!’

— SANDI SCHULTE “NEW TO YOU,” CONTINUED...

For those interested in DIY, Jeffers recommends exploring the shop’s textiles — what they call the “cutter” section — comprising salvaged wool blankets, Pendleton shirts and other fabric finds.

“Our customers like to utilize these fabrics for pillows or reupholstering furniture

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or repairing or creating clothing articles,” says Jeffers, who created the company five years ago with her husband, Dave Jeffers, and a third business partner, Dan Webb.

Another popular spot for creatives is the shop’s “spin bin” — a display of whatnots and trinkets including laboratory

Not all furnishings and décor are created equally when it comes to their upcycle potential. Plastics, including laminates, for example, can be problematic, requiring a range of problem-solving when it comes to refinishing them. Wood, however, offers a wealth of opportunities, and it’s both Schulte’s and Eatock’s preferred media for upcycling projects.

Both of them look for solid pieces that are structurally sound and, in a perfect world, unpainted.

“A lot of the antique pieces have been built to last, compared to new pieces that are made out of particleboard,” says Eatock. However, older pieces can be quite heavy, cautions Schulte, who has a list of preferred attributes: “dovetail joints, only needs minimal repairs, easily remedied flaws, no funky smells.”

With the project piece selected, it’s time for some prep.

“I always start by giving the item a thorough cleaning, which could include removing any grime, wiping off loose dirt or debris, and even a quick vacuuming,” says Schulte.

Both Schulte and Eatock use versatile chalk-type paints, which Schulte says not only stick to wood, but can also cover metal, stone, laminate and even cloth. Usually the paint can be applied directly to an object, though occasionally she’s noticed that varnishes and oil-based paints can bleed

...continued on page 28

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SPOKANE’S PREMIER GIFT SHOP, GARDEN CENTER & NURSERY iving Gift G e Mad Easy!

PURPOSEFUL AGING

Tips for Creating Distressed Finishes

W

e asked Spokane artist Larry Ellingson, a chill guy who is a master at distressing all kinds of surfaces, to reveal some of his top-secret techniques.

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WEATHERED WOOD “To give new-looking wood a weathered appearance, place some steel wool in a container of white vinegar for a few days,” says Ellingson. Brush the vinegar on raw wood, let it dry and watch it turn gray, repeating as needed or letting the steel wool soak longer so the solution becomes more concentrated. When working with pine, prime the wood with black tea first to encourage the “stain” to take.

Featuring the work of Local Artisans

COPPER PATINA To create aged-looking copper, Ellingson uses Metal Finishes Plus Patina from Spokane’s Alcobra Metals for a turquoise-colored patina.

Sometimes he scatters iron filings onto the metal before spraying on the chemicals to bring out specks of rust, and he will clear coat the metal if it is going to be exposed to kids and pets, or more general wear and tear.

RUSTY STEEL To create the look of rusted steel, Ellingson coats it with something like hydrochloric acid — hardware stores often sell it as muriatic acid — that has had some copper bits tossed in.

“Whenever I talk about this, someone always mentions the most popular method of rusting: leave the metal outside in the weather, protected from view, yet handy for periodic dousing in human-derived uric acid solution,” says Ellingson, who has done so himself. “Human males of all ages are peculiarly enthusiastic about this technique.”

— CARRIE SCOZZARO

      

15614 E Sprague Ave • Spokane Valley www.Sculptured-Gardens.com • 509.290.6866 OPEN YEAR

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“NEW TO YOU,” CONTINUED... through, in which case she uses a primer.

Eatock uses a line of all-natural, claybased paints from DIY Paint Co., which she also sells at Midtown Home & Vintage Market. Whether you’re going for a farmhouse look or boho-chic, says Eatock, chalk paint is an essential tool.

“It has been a game changer for me,” says Eatock, who used to spend considerable time prepping her surfaces. “It bonds to everything, even shiny finishes, and it is highly pigmented, so the coverage is exceptional.”

Special effects are also easy to achieve with chalk paint. To create distressed edges, Eatock wipes part of the paint away while

Vintage tooled leather belts find new purpose in this rustic chair on display at Boulevard Mercantile. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

Relax and Refinish

W

orried you’ll ruin a valuable antique with your refurbishing efforts?

“Only the very top, very rare, limited 5 percent of antiques in the world are destroyed by being refinished,” says Coeur d’Alene appraiser James Supp. Supp, who has frequently appeared on PBS’ Antiques Roadshow, says the original finish is important to allow an appraiser — and thus a buyer — to be sure the item is bonafide. Polishing something so it looks brand new could sand away the maker’s marks or personality of the original piece and its history.

“You remove signs of abuse, not use,” he advises, noting that the same goes for reasonable upgrades, such as putting new electrical into old fixtures because they’re safer that way.

When restoring an item, it’s best to start with some research, says Supp, who notes there are many schools of thought on just how much, if any, alteration of the item should occur. But one key in a restoration is remaining true to the original look of a piece.

“So putting a urethane finish on a hand-painted dowry chest from Scandinavia will kill the finish,” says Supp, who describes himself as a “consulting antiquarian” in his business, Coronado Trading Company.

Even if you intend to drastically alter a piece to suit your own tastes, it’s important to recognize the vast differences between current construction methods and those of yore. Modern glues are very, very strong and can crush delicate wood fibers during furniture restoration, Supp says.

Also be mindful of sudden changes in the ambient environment for items made of natural materials. Humidity, extreme heat or cold, and strong sunlight can be especially damaging to vintage pieces.

That doesn’t mean Supp thinks you should keep the old stuff under lock and key; instead, he says, enjoy it while you have it.

“I’m a firm believer that furniture needs to be used,” says Supp.

“That’s its purpose in life.”

— CARRIE SCOZZARO

SPOKANE'S WATER HEATER KINGS. Same Day Installs!

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509-535-3447 | BulldogRooter.com *When possible please set an appointment early to maximize the chance of same-day installation offer. Same-day installation applies to 40 and 50 gallon electric and gas water heaters.

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it’s wet. When it comes to detailed areas like carved designs, Eatock reaches for a stiff brush, barely loaded with paint, applying it just to the raised surfaces so that the wood shows through, easily highlighting the details.

Then it’s time to embellish.

“If diamonds are a girl’s best friend, then the right hardware is a dresser drawer’s best friend,” says Schulte. “While not every drawer pull or knob needs to be replaced, a quick paint job, touch up or replacement with that just right pop of color can take your piece from ordinary to ‘Oh, my!’ in mere moments.”

After the spiffy “new” piece settles into place in the DIYer’s home, collector-types in particular may need to exercise caution. By its sheer size, once in a room a refinished piece of furniture can be a show-stopper. Or it can become overlooked under a mountain of other decorative stuff.

“Sometimes less is more,” says Eatock, who takes considerable care in her displays. “When you start to collect too many things, it’s easy to make your space cluttered. Stick to the items that you really love and let go of the rest.”

Her last bit of advice: feel free to experiment.

“I love items with a history, that have a story,” says Eatock, who notes that doesn’t mean all the furniture and accessories in a room need to be vintage. “Sometimes you can create more contrast and visual interest when you pair that chippy painted piece with something shiny and new.”

I N I T I AT I V E

In times of great need, YOU can do the greatest good.

What can you give this holiday season?

Find an organization that speaks to your heart and get involved!

• Virtual and In-Person Volunteer Opportunities • Donations needed by local organizations • Upcoming Events & Benefits Pick up the Inlander every week for new volunteer opportunities!

Inlander.com/giveguide2020

To submit a volunteer opportunity, fundraiser or wish list items, e-mail give@inlander.com

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A wood planked ceiling adds to the cozy ambiance of designer Katie Getman’s basement lounge.

Delight T in the Depths At home, designer Katie Getman’s preferred location is in the basement

BY CARRIE SCOZZARO

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Health& Home

YOUNG KWAK PHOTOS

here is wonder underground. Designer Katie Getman’s favorite space in her Spokane Valley home is the subterranean sanctuary she and her husband recently completed. The room is midcentury modern meets ratskeller — that’s German for a gathering and drinking establishment inside the basement of a public building.

“Our intention is to have [our basement lounge] be a place for music and community,” says Getman of the remodel, which showcases family heirlooms like German beer steins, but also musical instruments and funky artwork by friends Jon and Naomi Deviny, local artists who run the online clothing and accessories retailer Lightning Deluxe.

A central feature of the Getman lounge is the heavy, trapezoidal teak bar where Katie’s husband, John, used to hide as a kid. They acquired the bar when he purchased his parents’ South Hill home.

“We aren’t sure exactly where it came from, or how old it truly is, but there is fun in the mystery of not knowing!” says Getman.

Wraparound shelves to hold barware, recessed lighting, low-slung seating areas and a woodplanked ceiling complete the lounge vibe.

“We want to tell our story and for this to be a place where other stories are welcome and told,” says Getman, who hopes to have small, music-oriented gatherings there someday.

Getman’s own story began at her family home

where she helped her father with remodeling projects and accompanied him on trips to the local hardware store. She also intently watched as he drew out sheet metal projects on old pieces of mail.

“There were always dimensions and elevation type drawings that explained the way everything would be connected. Because of this I have a need to visualize the way things work — not just the final appearance, but every stage in between and really understand the process,” says Getman. One of her girlhood dreams was a huge home where she could decorate each room according to a specific holiday all year-round.

After completing the Interior Design Institute’s program, she worked at a Spokane-area finishes store. A few years ago, she started her own company, Katie Getman Designs, where she revels in applying the science and psychology of design and the design process itself.

“Finding what a client wants and getting that dream to come to life is so amazing,” she says, noting that “every process challenges me to problem-solve for those clients specifically, and this changes me for the better.”

In addition to residential and commercial design, Getman has been looking for ways to take her basement bar/lounge remodel idea above ground if she can find a business partner. “I have some ideas up my sleeve,” she says.

DECEMBER 2020 - JANUARY 2021

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Luxury Homes

Luxury Homes

Virtual Parade Home show touring from the comfort of your home Kuntz Construction

W

hile the annual Fall Parade of Homes didn’t allow for in-person wandering this year, thousands of visitors still explored 21 homes that were built and staged for the home show through virtual tours. Most homes featured 3-D video and interviews with the builder.

The virtual show actually offered something the traditional, in-person event didn’t. “A lot of people are moving to Spokane from all over, and to let them know what we have to offer in our market here is a really great idea,” says Taylor Clanagan, marketing and communications coordinator for the Spokane Homebuilders Association.

Popular features in the 2020 show included outdoor living spaces. “A lot of builders are also working their way into more energy efficient homes. That’s a coming new focus,” says Clanagan.

The home with the most views and shares and the People’s Choice winner for the over $700,000 category was Kuntz Construction’s $1 million, 3,000-square-foot home in Indian Canyon.

Though it’s too late to vote on your favorites or schedule in-person showings, photo tours of all the homes will be available on the SHBA website at least until next year’s show.

And there are plans to offer virtual tours again next year. “I think it’s adapting to the new way of life,” says Clanagan.

Visit spokanefestivalofhomes.com — ANNE McGREGOR

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ABOVE Gourmet grilled cheese sandwich with tomato jam, recipe p. 36. INSET Responding to the pandemic, Beacon Hill's Ellie Aaro and Ryan Jordan retooled their thriving event-based catering company to deliver family-style meals to a new group of customers.

Goodness To Go

Getting dinner on the table doesn’t have to mean spending the afternoon in the kitchen STORY BY CARRIE SCOZZARO | PHOTOS BY YOUNG KWAK

T

he limits on large gatherings and the restrictions on food service have been a double whammy for local catering companies that relied on gatherings large and small. Spokane’s Beacon Hill Catering and Events found itself retooling after last spring’s graduation and wedding cancellations in anticipation of the summer event season, only to feel the whiplash of revised governmental restrictions in July.

That wiped out most of the industry for the year, says Beacon Hill’s Ellie Aaro, who co-owns the 20-year-old company with her father, Pete Rayner.

What else could they do but regroup and soldier on? They looked to capitalize on their assets: a great reputation, full culinary capabilities and a flexible delivery system. If people weren’t able to come to them, they’d bring their food to the people: Beacon at Home was born.

“The path of home meal delivery is unique yet familiar,” says chef Ryan Jordan. “We’re still producing the quality of cuisine that our existing client expects, but we’re trying to expand our brand so that a new client base can experience Beacon Hill.”

To an audience increasingly accustomed to online ordering and pickup/delivery, it was a win-win.

In the past, “the majority of our events have chosen their food in advance. And now it’s almost like we’re the client, creating a menu for an event that everyone is invited to, and it happens

weekly!” says Jordan, executive chef since 2010.

The weekly special serves four and is focused on gourmet cuisine, with an eye toward hearty fare. A recent menu included beef chili, romaine salad and maple cornbread muffins. Every order includes a yummy dessert (and yes, you can also order their legendary brownies separately because some days, you just need a little extra sweetness). Often menus feature gluten-free and vegetarian options.

In many ways, says Jordan, the pandemic has nudged them to rethink their model from occasional events to creating something people can look forward to weekly, ultimately growing the company’s customer base.

Jordan’s versatility is a prime example of Beacon Hill’s ability to not only pivot, but to spot and nurture talent. He joined the company in 2006 as a bartender, then parlayed his customer service and management skills into a managerial role. When they needed more help in the kitchen, says Jordan, he transitioned to managing it, becoming chef de cuisine and, in 2010, executive chef.

“Having never cooked in a commercial kitchen before, there was a lot to learn, but I caught on quick,” says Jordan. “For me personally, the 14-plus years that I have been with Beacon Hill has shown me that anything is possible with hard work, determination and a passion for your craft.”

DECEMBER 2020 - JANUARY 2021

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YOUNG KWAK PHOTOS

TRY IT YOURSELF

Gourmet Grilled Cheese with Tomato Jam Is the tomato a fruit or vegetable? While pundits debate, you’re the winner with this bright, unconventional jam that harnesses the natural sweetness of cooked-down tomatoes. Add it to a grilled cheese sandwich, and you’ll enjoy a new twist on that classic cheese sandwich/tomato soup flavor combo. You’ll have jam left over to add to gluten-free latkes topped with whipped feta for an unforgettable side dish that might just steal the show.

TOMATO JAM • ¼ cup minced shallots • 1 teaspoon minced garlic • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half lengthwise • ¼ teaspoon chili flakes • ½ teaspoon kosher salt • 1/8 teaspoon allspice • 2 tablespoons brown sugar • 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar • 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1. Heat olive oil on high, add tomatoes, and cook 2 to 3 minutes or just until tomatoes start to sizzle.

2. Add shallots, garlic, chili flakes, salt and allspice, stir.

3. Add brown sugar and sherry vinegar, stir.

4. Turn heat down to medium/low and allow liquid to cook into the tomatoes, stirring the tomatoes every few minutes.

5. Once there is no liquid left, about 10 minutes, turn off heat.

6. Add lemon zest to the tomato jam and stir to combine.

7. Allow to cool before serving. To store, refrigerate in a nonreactive container.

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ARTISAN GRILLED CHEESE (MAKES 4) • 1 loaf rustic sourdough bread (or similar), cut into 8 slices • 6 slices Beecher’s Flagship White Cheddar • 4 tablespoons crumbled goat cheese, divided • 4 tablespoons tomato jam, divided • Extra virgin olive oil 1. Brush one side of each piece of bread with olive oil and place brushed side down on a plate.

2. Stack 1½ slices of cheddar, 1 tablespoon each of goat cheese and tomato jam onto bread.

3. Top with the remaining slices of bread and brush slices with olive oil.

4. In a skillet or panini press with medium heat, grill each sandwich for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown.

5. Remove from heat, cut and serve.

Potato Latkes with Whipped Feta POTATO LATKES • 8 large russet potatoes, peeled, shredded and rinsed under cold water • ½ cup minced shallots • 2 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme • 8 eggs • 1½ tablespoons kosher salt • 2 cups crushed Rice Chex cereal • Canola oil for frying 1. Place shredded potatoes in cheesecloth and squeeze all liquid out of potatoes.

2. In a separate bowl whisk eggs well. Add shallots, thyme and salt.

Sprinkle crushed cereal onto potatoes and stir to combine.

3. Form potato mixture into a 3-inch disc by pressing it between your palms. Don’t make it too thin!

4. Heat oil to medium and cook each disc on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook until the second side is golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.

5. Serve at room temperature or reheat in 350-degree oven for 10 minutes and top with a dollop of whipped feta and tomato jam.

6. Freeze leftover latkes in a single layer on a cookie sheet covered with freezer paper. Once frozen stiff, place gently in a freezer bag. To reheat, thaw slightly and cook on a hot, oiled griddle until crisp.

7. Makes 4 dozen 3-inch latkes.

Family Dinners To-Go Here's just a sampling of local family-style take-out options.

BEACON HILL AT HOME Order at beaconhillathome.square.site for free dinner delivery within a 10 mile radius of Beacon Hill. Deliveries are 3 pm to 5 pm Thursdays or Fridays. (Pictured above.)

THE IVORY TABLE CATERING COMPANY “Dinner boxes” feature three days’ of ready-to-heat meals, including entrees and sides ($49 per person/per box). A recent weekly three-meal lineup included entrees of French onion soup, slow-cooked barbecue chicken and penne with a brown butter pumpkin cream sauce. All include a variety of side dishes. Add dessert or breakfast sandwiches to your weekly order, which is due by Saturdays at 3 pm. Order at store. ivorytable.com. Pick up on Tuesdays at 1822 E. Sprague. Add $10 for delivery.

MAX AT MIRABEAU IN SPOKANE VALLEY “Family dinner packs to go” serve four to six people. Options include chicken alfredo ($50), chicken piccata ($60), creamy crab “maccheroni ($80),” grilled salmon ($95), or baby back ribs ($80). Order at maxatmirabeau.com or 922-6252. Same day orders available with three-hour notice. Pick up 4 pm to 8 pm at 1100 N. Sullivan Rd., Spokane Valley. Free delivery on orders of $75 or more.

WHIPPED FETA • 12 ounces Feta cheese • 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 1/4 cup lemon juice • Salt and white pepper, to taste 1. Combine cheeses in a food processor.

2. Add olive oil and lemon juice and combine until thoroughly mixed.

3. Season with salt and white pepper.

4. Refrigerate unused mixture in a tightly sealed container.

— Recipes courtesy of chef Ryan Jordan at Beacon Hill Catering and Events.

CHARLEY’S GRILL & SPIRITS “Just throw it in the oven and you’re ready to go!” meals for two include either chicken with blackberry barbecue sauce ($20) or sirloin steak ($25) with Caesar salad, potatoes and Texas toast, or a chicken cobb salad kit with egg, bacon, tomatoes and blue cheese crumbles. Call 328-8911 or email Shirley@ charleyscatering.com to order. Pick up at 801 N. Monroe.

NECTAR CATERING AND EVENTS Learn to cook some of executive Chef Steven Swenson’s most popular meals using the Nectar Fresh make-at-home meal kits ($35, feeds four). Kits include step-by-step instructions and ingredients for making pad thai, sesame ginger beef, honey chipotle pork and other options. Or try Nectar Express for ready to heat, pre-made family platters. Choices include fajitas, pot roast, tikka masala, roasted pork loin or chicken marsala ($40, feeds four) or lasagna ($35, feeds four). Easy-to-reheat brunches including mimosas ($40) also available. Order at 951-2096 or nectarcateringandevents.com/store. Pick up Monday-Friday11 am to 2:30 pm at 120 N. Stevens or choose delivery 3 pm to 6 pm for $5.

DECEMBER 2020 - JANUARY 2021

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Effervescent Options Not just an alternative to beer, ciders assert their independence at Spokane’s One Tree Hard Cider

BY LEANN BJERKEN

A

t One Tree Hard Cider, there’s a cider blend for every season.

“We’re definitely all about the flavor,” says Grant Barnes, who co-owns the Spokane-based cidery with his friend Neal Hennessy.

“Most ciders are lightly flavored and drier, but ours tend to be sweeter and more flavorful because we put as much real fruit as we can into every batch,” he says.

One Tree Hard Cider started with a cider-making kit gifted to Barnes for his first Father’s Day in 2013. “I’d meant to try brewing beer, but it ended up spawning this hobby, and I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit,” he says.

By 2014, Barnes and Hennessy had opened the company’s first production facility in Spokane Valley. And in 2017 the two opened One Tree Cider House in downtown Spokane at 111 S. Madison St. “The cider house is kind of our claim to fame,” says Barnes. “We offer 20 taps of just cider — no beer except in cans.” In addition to their own products, the selections are sourced from other independently owned cideries throughout the Northwest. “Our purpose in having smaller brands on tap is to give our customers exposure to new tastes and experiences,” he says. “But we also believe in the idea that ‘All tides rise,’ so when we support others in the industry we all benefit.”

One Tree’s cider lineup includes a set of core blends — lemon basil, caramel cinnamon, huckleberry and staycation (pineapple mango) — as well as seasonal offerings such as cranberry, pumpkin, heartbreaker (raspberry with “a kick of jalapeno) and the festive snowglobe, a glitter-infused cider with an apple-pie-esque flavor. A recent seasonal addition is the Plum Szechuan, crafted with apples, plums and Szechuan peppercorns.

In its formative years, Barnes says One Tree would buy apples from food co-ops and press them for use in cider making.

“Once we reached a certain size, it was more practical to use a juicing company to buy and press apples for us,” he says. “But ONE TREE HARD CIDER PHOTO

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we still make sure all of our apples are sourced here in Washington state.”

The ciders are available in Washington, Idaho, Montana and Alaska.

The full flavors of One Tree’s ciders offer lots of options. As a standalone beverage, they are perfect for happy hour or pair well with many entrees. But they can also be used in the kitchen. “Our lemon basil can be made into marinade for fish or chicken, and our huckleberry has a tannin that works well in stew or glazes,” Barnes says.

One Tree’s ciders have also become an innovative element in the crafting of mixed drinks. The ciders pair so well with other types of alcohol that the company has expanded into a whole new market, partnering with local liquor maker Dry Fly Distilling to create mixed drinks sold in cans.

“We’ve had a relationship with Dry Fly’s owners for a while, as they helped us get our start early on,” Barnes says. “Our companies also share similar interests in the charities and causes we support, so it was natural to partner with them on a product that combines our cider and their liquor.” Two new flavor varieties are set to debut in 2021.

In addition to its canned-drink partnership, Barnes says One Tree has also been supporting Dry Fly by using its hand sanitizer and other cleaning products during the pandemic.

“It’s been relatively easy to add safety precautions to our production facility and keep up on that side, but maintaining the atmosphere of the cider house has been harder,” he says. “But we do what we can to keep things safe while still being friendly and fun.”

Looking ahead, One Tree is working to move into a new and expanded warehouse and production space at 125 E. Ermina Ave. by early 2021.

“We’d hoped to move in sooner, but business has been going so well we’re having difficulty shutting production down long enough to make the switch,” he says.

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Health& Home

Close to Home Even at a distance, your family can preserve cherished traditions — and create meaningful new ones

BY E.J. IANNELLI

T

he pandemic has upended a lot of the routines that are embedded in our lives. Its impact is particularly apparent during this time of year.

Family get-togethers are normally such a fixture of the season, and yet, as a way of avoiding risk to themselves as well as those close to them, many households have opted not to host their usual large holiday meal or decided to forgo the annual trip to see distant relatives.

From a psychological standpoint, suspending those traditions can be a difficult thing to do.

“As humans, we’re just wired for repetition and for wanting to repeat things that bring us joy,” says Meg Cox, author of The Book of New Family Traditions: How to Create Great Rituals for Holidays and Every Day. “These rituals are our beliefs and our values translated into action. By doing them, you are preserving those memories and building on them at the same time.”

Furthermore, long-standing traditions actually take on more significance when we find ourselves in unsettling circumstances. They serve as a familiar, reassuring constant that helps keep us grounded when everything else seems like it’s up in the air.

“It’s all very powerful, primal stuff,” says Cox. “And it’s good to have that as a kind of anchor — to know that, by hanging on to these words, this event or this recipe, our family still matters.” ...continued on next page

Sharing History, Enriching Tradition • Instead of reading from a book, take turns telling your favorite personal stories.

• Make a family documentary by “interviewing” relatives.

• Cook a relative’s signature dish or a traditional recipe that celebrates your family’s culture.

• Set time aside to browse old family photos together.

• Have each family member share a song that they enjoy or that brings back fond memories.

• Ask older relatives — even by phone or video chat — what life was like growing up.

• Turn genealogy into a fun family project by creating a collaborative family tree.

JONATHAN HILL ILLUSTRATION

“CLOSE TO HOME,” CONTINUED...

Long before COVID-19 hit, Kierste Wade was faced with the challenge of maintaining cherished traditions and family connections across geographical distances.

Originally from southern Utah, Wade now lives in rural upstate New York, where she blogs about her homebuilding and home decorating experiences at OldSaltFarm.com.

“We don’t get to see our family very often, even during the holidays. I have six kids, and it can be difficult to travel,” she says. “So we’ve learned how to do some of those traditions from far away. It’s definitely possible. And at this time, it’s even more imperative that we make the effort to either create new traditions or figure out ways to

“Capitalize on technology,” says tradition expert Kierste Wade, to foster family connections until it’s safe again to gather in person.

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still do the traditions that we already have to keep those connections alive.”

To maintain the in-person traditions of the past, Wade recommends trying to “capitalize on technology.” That includes using apps like Zoom and FaceTime that have become so vital in the age of social distancing.

It could be something as straightforward as opening gifts or sitting down for a meal together while virtually linked through your tablet or smartphone. Or you might go for a driving tour of local holiday light displays and share the video, whether live or recorded, with members of your family.

But long-distance connections certainly don’t have to be high-tech. Cox fondly recalls a ritual practiced by a family she interviewed more than 20 years ago for her book The Heart of a Family: Searching America for New Traditions That Fulfill Us. “This family was scattered all over the place. And they had this great practice that they did a day or two before Thanksgiving every year, where they would all bake the same pie at the same time, and it was a recipe from Grandma Betty. Then Grandma Betty would pick up the phone and call and talk to every single grandchild while

this pie baking was going on.”

Beyond preserving traditions, there’s a lot of fun and inventiveness to be found in establishing new ones. Many years ago, Cox started a New Year practice of having her family write down the best and worst things of the past twelve months — their most positive memory, for instance, or the worst movie they saw. At Thanksgiving, she does a similar gratitude exercise with construction paper leaves that are affixed to a centerpiece called the Thankful Tree.

“That’s the kind of thing where, if you do Zoom with different branches of the family, you can read out what’s on your leaves and share those things. And you

can look back on these things later and see what mattered. They become a narrative of the history of the family,” she says.

“Every single tradition had to start somewhere,” adds Wade, which is why she advocates for balancing the old with the new.

Her own book, Simply Tradition: 70 Fun and Easy Holiday Ideas for Families, was designed to provide inspiration to those intentionally looking to build upon their family’s more established customs and celebrations.

“A lot of our traditions have actually happened rather organically but also by having a conversation about it. What can we do to connect?

What are our favorite things to do and our common interests? They don’t have to be fancy. It can be as simple as having a game night. What it really comes down to is spending time together.”

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Delving into Child Development Reassuring, practical, science-based advice for raising great kids

A

FOR EXPECTANT PARENTS

s 2020 winds down, we asked our regular columnist pediatrician Matt Thompson for a New Year’s reading list for parents of kids at various stages of development.

As the pandemic continues, “We should all have plenty of time to read this winter,” he writes. “Here are some books I recommend for parents. Some are newer than others, but they are all good reads.”

It should be noted that Thompson himself is a fairly prolific author, having written more than 60 columns on all sorts of issues parents face. Among the most shared are “Helping Kids Feel Secure” from 2016, “Teen Tune-Up” from 2014 and 2012’s “Unleash the Monster,” a treatise on relieving childhood constipation. Since 2008, his work has appeared in nearly every issue of Health & Home and under our previous masthead, InHealth. The collection is archived online and available for parents of kids of all ages to read for free at inlander.com/author/matt-thompson.

— ANNE McGREGOR

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Retro Baby: Cut Back on All the Gear and Boost Your Baby’s Development with More than 100 Time-Tested Activities by Anne H. Zachry Zachry is an occupational therapist and mother of three who offers creative ways to spend time with your

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baby, and makes the case that spending too much time with electronic baby toys and videos, and even baby bouncers and swings can be detrimental.

The Whole-Brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind by Daniel Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson A bestseller for nearly a decade, this book’s information remains compelling.

Everyone knows babies crawl before they walk, but the development of the brain isn’t as obvious. Using an “upstairs brain/downstairs brain� metaphor, Siegel and Bryson talk parents through strategies that are easy to understand and immediately apply.

SCHOOL-AGE AND UP

Building Resilience in Children and Teens: Giving Kids Roots and Wings by Kenneth R. Ginsburg and Martha M. Jablow Advice for nurturing kids to develop their resilience, confidence and competence with an eye toward their future success and happiness, all the while acknowledging that “consistency of love� is the most important thing parents and caregivers can offer.

TEENAGERS

Staying Connected to Your Teenaeger: How to Keep Them Talking to You and How to Hear What They’re Really Saying by Michael Riera Practical ways to engage during what the author admits can be stressful years. Riera writes, “Nothing in a parent’s life is more trying, confusing, and frustrating than raising a teenager. They are moody, self-centered, and full of mixed messages; at least that’s the way normal, healthy teenagers behave.� — MATT THOMPSON Matt Thompson is a pediatrician at Spokane’s Kids Clinic.

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Watercolor Wonders Spokane’s Stan Miller evokes a sense of peace and familiarity in his detailed paintings

BY CHEY SCOTT

A

ward-winning watercolor artist Stan Miller has taught workshops and exhibited his art in galleries around the world.

On the walls of the dining room in his southeast Spokane home, Miller’s recent watercolors are showcased gallery-style, with directional spot lighting and prices noted on pieces still for sale. The display presents a concise retrospective of his distinguished career and a testament to his mastery of watercolors, a challenging medium to hone.

Though Miller has taught classes and shown his watercolor portraits and landscapes around the globe — in Thailand, China, France, Italy, Mexico, Vietnam, New York City — he’s had few solo shows in Spokane, his hometown since 1967. The 71-year-old artist participates yearly in the Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture’s ArtFest, and earlier this year had a collection of paintings shown at Barrister Winery downtown, but says, “I haven’t been in a gallery in Spokane.”

“I just sold art out of my home, and I made my living from painting, mostly selling my paintings, and teaching, later in life, as I became more known,” Miller continues. “I’ve been selling paintings in Spokane

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since 1973, full time, and Spokane has been very good to me.”

Each year around the holidays, Miller opens his home to the public for a small art sale, hosting as many as 300 guests over the weekend-long event. This year’s event is still on, though due to current public health regulations he’s asking visitors to schedule a time to visit and masks must be worn.

Most of Miller’s work is representational, a mix of portraits and landscapes. The people and places in his works are often so deeply detailed that at some vantages the paintings appear photographic. For this reason, some viewers may even be surprised to learn the medium is watercolor.

“My color scheme is quite earthy, it’s not really colorful, and the way I paint is in a sense of quietness,” he says. “The comments I get from people are that my work is quiet, serene, gentle, and familiar, yet original. I try to convey a universal emotion when I paint a portrait.”

Miller prefers watercolors in a tube over the more traditional dried form softened with water. The tube-based pigments are thicker and more akin to oil paint, he notes.

As a full-time artist for five decades and counting, Miller has spent a good deal of time mentoring the next generation of

YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

“Nick’s Gaze” Watercolor by Stan Miller watercolorists. While he’s taught art at local schools, including at his alma mater, Spokane Falls Community College, Miller now teaches mostly private sessions. He currently leads a weekly class at Spokane Art Supply and volunteers to teach art to eighth-graders at All Saints Catholic School. He’s also leveraged the power of social media to share watercolor techniques via recorded videos on his YouTube channel, which are free for anyone to access.

A few of Miller’s past students have gone on to establish respected reputations of their own in the watercolor field, including Coeur d’Alene’s Jessica Bryant and former Spokanite Linda Smith.

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F

rom childhood, Miller dreamed of becoming a professional artist.

“I didn’t think I could do it because I didn’t know anyone who was a full-time artist,” he recalls.

Nor did he expect watercolor to become his medium of choice.

While studying at Spokane Falls Community College in the early ’70s, Miller took several fine art classes, including courses in oil and watercolor painting. He finished with a C in watercolor and vowed “never to touch it again.”

“Then I did have to take [watercolor] again because all the oil painting classes were filled, and I needed more credits for my degree,” he continues. “So with great trepidation I took it again, and all of my background and training helped me to

color, framed up, for $40, with glass and everything,” he recalls. “I was practically giving them away, but I thought I needed a lot of practice and was going to have to do this a long time before I got good.”

Back then, he estimates he painted 10 to 12 hours a day, six days a week, to improve his craft and eke out a living.

“If the paintings didn’t sell, to save money I’d take it out of the frame and paint on the backside,” he continues. “If I could make $200 a month from selling art, I was doing it, making my living as an artist. As I got better, there was a greater demand for my paintings, and then I increased the price.”

Today, one of Miller’s pieces goes for anywhere between $3,000 and $5,000, and his goal is to sell every piece he creates —

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Stan Miller’s home is a wall-to-wall gallery of his watercolor paintings. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO better understand watercolor, and I fell in love with it.”

As it turns out, it was the medium’s finicky and unpredictable nature that hooked Miller.

“Painting in oil is like training your dog; painting in watercolor is like training your cat — everything about it says, ‘You can’t control me,’ and that is what I hated about it but also what I loved about it. It’s never predictable.”

Upon graduating, Miller began selling his work locally anywhere he could, hanging it at malls, in beauty salons, bank and motel lobbies, and participating in sidewalk fairs. His trick to move paintings fast was pricing them incredibly low.

“I was selling a medium sized water-

with the exception of one.

Painted in 1976, it hangs above the table in his cozy art studio with a window overlooking the street. A scene of a worn, wooden wagon bed overlooking an empty, dusty field, the work evokes the oeuvre of Andrew Wyeth, a major influence of Miller’s. This particular piece also represents a major career moment for Miller, as it was accepted into a New York exhibition of the esteemed American Watercolor Society.

“It’s the oldest painting organization in America — some of America’s greatest painters exhibited with this society — and I got a painting in, and that was a huge accomplishment,” he says. “That was the big green light of ‘I think I can do this. I think I can make a living as an artist.’”

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