By Michael Shook The philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche is perhaps most famous among the general public for his statement “God is dead.” He also wrote, “Without music, life would be a mistake.” In contrast, the author Kurt Vonnegut once remarked, “Music is to me proof of the existence of God.” I think Vonnegut would agree with…
By Seán Malone and John Sweetman In our explorations of Vashon history, John and I came upon the original survey of Vashon, an 1841 map by Captain Wilkes and the “Ex. Ex.” or “Exploration Expedition,” which resulted in our Island’s exploration. His crew did not like Captain Charles Wilkes. Because of his “obstinate and overbearing nature,”…
By Tripper Harrison We’re pretty safe from Bigfoot sightings here. Some Islanders have reported experiences around Western Washington, but I don’t know of an example on Vashon. If anybody saw a Bigfoot here, one of the first comments would be, “Did it take the North End or South End ferry? You know they can cut…
By Stephen Buller One of my readers wrote in, disagreeing with my claim that the United States dollar is a “fiat” currency. Firstly, let me say thank you for your interest! My mission in writing these columns is to educate my community about the monetary system as it exists today, and on how we could…
By Kathy Abascal As we move through summer, fleas multiply, and many pets end up with hot spots. Hot spots are skin infections caused by an imbalance of bacteria. As the dog licks an itchy flea bite, the pH of the saliva disrupts the normal skin flora, creating an environment that suits the “wrong” microbes…
By Diana Diaz I think it’s fair to say that we all have our personal reasons for practicing yoga in its many forms. Hatha Yogis enjoy moving the body, while Raja Yogis gravitate toward the calming and clarifying effects of meditation. Japa Yogis immerse in chants and prayer. Karma Yogis take it into the world…
By Nichole Banducci Editor’s note: Congratulations to Nichole, Vashon Chamber of Commerce’s new Executive Director! This time of year, we are truly in a space of transition. From vacations to back-to-school, summer to fall, and overwhelmingly … zucchini to more zucchini. These zucchini carrot breakfast cookies fit right in! They are chock-full of healthful zucchini…
By Marjorie Watkins How to live to be 100 years or better!1. Get plenty of exercise2. Also take a rest when you need it3. Choose healthier food.4. Boot sugar from your diet5. Choose your companions carefully.Words and Illustration by Marj after recently turning 100 This article first appeared in The Vashon Loop, probably in the…
By Eva Deloach There’s nothing quite like a cold, refreshing drink to beat the heat. Unlike the traditional hot brewing methods, cold brew delivers a less acidic experience that’s perfect for sunny days. The Cold Brew Process: A Gentle Extraction Cold brew coffee is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold water for…