Real Estate March 31, 2021

5 Things Every Septic Owner Needs

A Drain SnakeDrain Snake

Don’t kill your system with Drano! Hair clogs happen. Instead of pouring caustic Drano into your plumbing (which can actually cause damage to pipes and will kill your septic system) try this super cheap (less than $2 each) and easy drain snake that works in seconds. This tool coupled with prevention (see #2 below) will keep you from having to resort to expensive and dangerous remedies.

ORDER NOW

A Drain Cover

Drain Cover

 

There are hundreds of different types of drain covers. We have tried several to reduce the guess work for you and discovered that we like this flat and wide version best. You can order it here. Honestly, regardless of which kind you purchase your septic will thank you as long as it keeps hair and other large particles from swirling down your drains to prevent it from clogging and will save your septic.

ORDER NOW

The Right Toilet Paper

Toilet Paper

Most people are too dignified to talk about things related to the potty but as a septic system owner you need to know that there is a right and a wrong kind of toilet paper if you want to keep your system in excellent condition and prevent clogging. If you put a piece of your TP in a glass of water, stir it up a bit and let it sit for a few minutes it should dissolve pretty quickly into tiny pieces no larger than a nickel. This is called the TP test. If it stays intact in larger pieces your septic system is going to have a real problem breaking it down and the chances of you clogging your toilet are MUCH higher. Check out the results from a test The Art of Doing Stuff did here.

A Pumice Stone

stone, stains, water, septic

With hard water being the rule and not the exception on Whidbey Island there is a constant battle to keep our toilet bowls and sinks free from the dreaded hard water rings. Using harsh chemicals to try and remove them can work but at the cost of damaging the function and life of your septic system. The solution? A simple and cheap pumice stone! A wet pumice stone won’t scratch porcelain but it will easily and effectively remove hard water build up just by rubbing it back and forth across the stain. Try it and let us know what you think!

ORDER NOW

A Good Septic Inspector

Septic Inspector

Because you now own your very own mini sewage treatment machine you will need to maintain it. Finding a great septic inspector and getting on a regular inspection rotation is as easy as picking up the phone and calling or texting your Windermere Broker. At Windermere we pride ourselves on always having the inside knowledge about and great relationships with vendors our clients will need. Septic inspectors are #1 on that list! Many of them have a program you can join that puts you on a regular inspection rotation so you don’t have to think about it every year (or 3 years depending on your system). If you don’t have your very own Windermere Broker you are missing out! Visit our website to find your match today

If you liked this you might also like:

blonde lawns, yards, summer, resource, whidbey islan , oak harbor

Blonde Lawns Whidbey Island Utility Costs

 

Real EstateStats March 10, 2021

Monthly Stats: February 2021

Monthly Stats, February, 2021

Uncategorized March 8, 2021

Woman Owned Businesses on Whidbey

Happy International Women’s Day!

International Women’s Day is a global day meant to celebrate the achievements of women across the world and call to action greater gender equality. This year we wanted to celebrate the day by highlighting just a few phenomenal women-owned businesses on Whidbey Island, starting with our own brokerage owner – Kristen Stavros!

Windermere Whidbey |  32785 WA-20 #4, Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Women Owned Business, Kristen Stavros, Windermere Real Estate, Whidbey Island, National Womans day

Kristen Stavros is the Co-Owner of Windermere Real Estate Whidbey Island. After spending years as an agent and then managing broker, Kristen stepped into the new role as owner in 2019. Since then she has been the spearhead visionary for the Windermere Whidbey brokerage as well as inspiring change and diversity among all of Windermere. 

CreAda’s Hair and Wig Salon | 910 SE Pioneer Way, Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Windermere Whidbey Island

Ada Moseley is the owner and head stylist for CreAda’s Hair and Wig Salon. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, she is a stylist that provides the highest level of hair care and knowledge to her clients.

Bayshore Chiropractic | 840 SE Bayshore Dr # 101, Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Windermere Real estate

Dr. Dawn is a much-loved and respected chiropractor on Whidbey Island. With over 20 years of experience and genuine compassion for her clients; she provides outstanding quality service that is hard to find elsewhere.  

Frida’s | 721 SE Pioneer Way, Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Windermere Real estate, Whidbey Island, Woman

Naomi Gamboa Schneider is the owner and operator of Frida’s Arts & Craft store. She has a deep passion for creativity and talks readily about how her store, which features all kinds of great paper and art supplies, is the realization of a long-held dream.

Seaside Salon and Spa | 5 Front St NW, Coupeville, WA 98239

Windermere Blog, Aaron Wiley

Aaron Wiley’s Seaside Spa and Salon is known for being a place of deep relaxation and joy. With a number of stylists, nail techs, massage therapists, and estheticians; Seaside Spa and Salon’s repertoire of services is sure to impress.

Orlando’s Bar + Southern BBQ | 656 SE Bayshore Dr. Ste 1, Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Orlandos, oak harbor, Washington

Ms. Jackie had nothing more than two cast iron pots, a tent, and a vision when she started the now-beloved Orlando’s Bar and Southern BBQ. Whether you’re looking for the best-grilled catfish on the island or just a friendly upbeat atmosphere, Orlando’s is an establishment you do not want to miss.

3 Sisters Market | 779 N Holbrook Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239

3 sisters Market, real estate, Whidbey island

It is honestly hard to imagine Whidbey Island without the multi-generational 3 Sister’s Farm. In 2013, Roshel and her sisters added to their legacy when they opened 3 Sister’s Market which is dedicated to offering customers the best selection of products from the most local sources. 

Little Town Cottage | 851 SE Pioneer Way, Suite #102 Oak Harbor, WA, 98277

Little Town Cottage, Oak Harbor, Washington, Whidbey Island

Maria Rodriguez is the founder and visionary of the incredible soap shop, Little Town Cottages. With a dream to build a business she can pass down to her children, Maria started her store in 2018 by selling home decor, gift ideas, and body products. The community fell in love with her creative soap creations, and she now has expanded her store.

Collections Boutique | 24 Front St NE, Coupeville, WA 98239

Jennifer, whidbey island, Woman Owned Businesses

Jennifer Bachmann is the owner and operator of Coupeville Front Street’s Collections Boutique. This quaint store, situated in a historic 1887 building, carries a variety of clothing lines, jewelry, accessories, and baby gifts for consumers. 

Forage | No Physical Location

Forage , oak harbor, whidbey island, Washington

Anyone who has seen a bouquet by Lexi Ochoa knows this woman has an absolute talent for floral arrangements. Lexi’s bouquets are not only stunning, but they also are locally sourced. Forage uses small farms, gardens, and found flowers as much as possible in her arrangements which make them unique and last a great deal longer than other bouquets.

Map to Woman-Owned Businesses on Whidbey:

If you enjoyed this blog you might also enjoy reading:

Black Owned Businesses on whidbey

Places February 23, 2021

Black-Owned Businesses on Whidbey

Windermere Whidbey is a proud supporter and celebrator of Black History Month. This year we wanted to do something extra special to commemorate the month, so we have collected a list of Black-Owned Businesses on Whidbey that we think you are going to love visiting. 

Orlando’s Bar and Southern BBQ | 656 SE Bayshore Dr Ste 1, Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Orlando’s Bar and Southern BBQ is a community treasure that started with nothing more than two cast iron pots, a tent, and a woman with a vision. Starting at the local farmer’s market, Ms. Jackie and her family served up southern-style food that took the Oak Harbor community by storm. Within a few years the business grew from a tent to a truck, and now an incredible downtown restaurant few can resist. Whether you’re looking for the best-grilled catfish on the island or just a friendly upbeat atmosphere to enjoy, Orlando’s is an establishment you do not want to miss. 

CreAda’s | 910 SE Pioneer Way, Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Ada Moseley is the owner and head stylist for CreAda’s Hair and Wig Salon. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, she is a stylist that provides the highest level of hair care and knowledge to her clients. She is known for making her clients feel special from the moment they walk through her door as well as cultivating a respectful and diverse atmosphere within her salon. If you’re looking for experience and compassion from your stylist, she is the one to call! 

Shaw Photography | No physical Location

Shaw Photography is owned and operated by Willie and Kelsey Shaw. Whidbey Island natives, Willie and Kelsey met in high school and fell in love. As adults, the couple has built a business combining their skills in photography and videography that allows them to work together and gives them more time with their two young sons. Willie is an especially talented videographer who you may recognize as the cameraman behind Annie Cash’s Your Local Look Videos. If you’re looking for an engagement, maternity, or family photographer, you can’t go wrong with this insanely creative couple. 

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by KELSEY SHAW (@_im_a_bird)

Lesedi Farm | 2812 Thompson Rd, Langley WA 98277

A truly unique treasure for Whidbey Island, Lesedi Farm is owned and operated by Dorcas Young. Dorcus was born and raised in Botswana on her family’s 500-acre farm where she learned the art of cultivating crops and raising livestock. After meeting and falling in love with a Washington State native, Dorcus moved to Whidbey Island with her husband and four children. She brought with her seeds from Botswana to plant in her garden and soon followed the inspiration for her farm. Dorcas now sells produce from her garden at local farmers’ markets as well as Botswana-styled meals and food products. You can find her products at Pike Place Market, West Seattle Farmers Market, and Bayview Farmers Market.

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lesedi Farm (@lesedifarm20)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lesedi Farm (@lesedifarm20)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lesedi Farm (@lesedifarm20)

Jahleel Vester with Summit Funding, Inc. | 275 SE Cabot Drive, Suite A8

Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Jahleel Vester is a Whidbey Island native who absolutely loves his community. Anyone who meets Jahleel knows that he has a passion for living life to the fullest and serving his clients well. As an individual who knows all too well the historical struggles of the black community within the housing market, he desires to be a role model and trailblazer for others. Working with Summit Funding has given Jahleel the opportunity to build a business that aligns with his vision and dreams. If you’re looking for a passionate loan officer ready to educate you and find the solutions you need, look no further.

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by (@jahleelvestermortgage)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by (@jahleelvestermortgage)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by (@jahleelvestermortgage)

Ozell Jackson with HomeBridge | 32650 State Route 20, Suite 201, Oak Harbor, Washington 98277

Ozell Jackson is a Puget Sound native who greatly values community and making a meaningful impact. Through the years he has served the community as a football, basketball, and soccer coach, instilling the discipline of making plans and taking responsibility for mistakes in his students. This passion for service drives his career as a Loan Officer and is why he chooses to work with Homebridge, who he feels shares this goal with him. 

Posted by Team Jackson Ozell & Julie Jackson, Loan Originators on Sunday, June 23, 2019

We’re committed to helping you with your homeownership questions through this turbulent time. Send me a message today to…

Posted by Team Jackson Ozell & Julie Jackson, Loan Originators on Thursday, April 2, 2020

Mrs. Billies Beauty Salon | 715 SE Fidalgo Ave. suite #201, Oak Harbor

Mrs. Billies Beauty Salon is located comfortably within The Loft on Fidalgo and Dock in Oak Harbor. Billie Foster is an incredibly talented hairstylist with over 26 years of experience who offers a variety of services to any and everyone regardless of their hair type or texture. She’s known for receiving a great amount of joy in making her clients feel good about the way they look. Whether you want to switch up your color, try extensions, do silk presses or relaxers; Mrs. Billie has got you covered.

Dean’s Sports Plus | 730 N Oak Harbor St, Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Dean Lewis, the owner of Dean’s Sports Plus, always had the vision to own his own business and be his own boss. His sporting goods store is the realization of the dream. Having spent the last 30 years servicing clients’ sporting needs, he not only has returning customers but multiple generations of them. He has earned a reputation within the community for being an outstanding repairman for sports equipment ranging from bicycles to snow skis. So the next time you need a chain fixed or a wheel adjusted, you know who to call!  

 

Did we miss a business? Let us know in the comments! 

If you liked this you might also like:

eyelashes

Where to get your Lashes done on Whidbey

Real Estate January 28, 2021

Buying Vacant Land on Whidbey Island

If you have always dreamed of building your own home, choosing your own layout, selecting dream finishes, and want all your desires in a home met then you will be looking for vacant land. This is a completely different world than buying a preexisting home where there is complete certainty when it comes to electricity, water, sewage, and condition. Uncertainty is not comfortable for everyone so let’s make sure you feel prepared and empowered.

Buying Vacant Land on Whidbey Island, Dream Home, Whidbey Island

First and foremost, if you ask anyone who has built their own home, they will tell you that even if you build a home from scratch you will not end up with a 100% perfect house. There are always compromises and unforeseen issues with layout, etc. Remember, vacant land is scarce and becoming scarcer, so if you find the perfect property with an imperfect house, perhaps you can consider a major remodel.

When buying vacant land, it is all about the level of certainty a parcel can provide you. A parcel that already has a water source, septic system, access/driveway, building site laid out, and electrical nearby is going to be extremely rare.  Such a parcel will cost more because of the time and expenses already invested by the seller. There is also inherent value in the confidence you as a buyer can have that you will not run into complications that may make the land unsuitable for development.

Below are our TOP 5 recommendations when considering buying vacant land:

Buying Vacant Land on Whidbey Island, Vacant land, build your dream home, Windermere, Real Estate

Find a vacant land purchasing specialist.

Buying vacant land on Whidbey Island, Land Specialist, windermere Real Estate, Best of Whidbey

Complex is the word that comes to mind when thinking about vacant land purchases. Having a trusted guide who loves the complexity that comes with purchasing land is something you really want. Many brokers groan when they think about helping buyers with vacant land but there are a special few who just dig it! Find them! It will make all the difference. If you need a recommendation just call (360) 675-5953 and ask for a recommendation on a vacant land specialist from the manager.

 

Know your corners.

Buying vacant land on Whidbey Island, Land Specialist, windermere Real Estate, Best of Whidbey, Know your corners

In the best-case scenario, there has been a survey done and the corners are clearly marked with modern official survey markers however, this is rare. You may need to negotiate to have this done by the Seller. There are other signs that can give an idea of where property lines fall though. One of the coolest technologies that most agents have nowadays is an app that uses geo-spatial technology to locate your position on a map in relation to property lines. An old-fashioned surveyor’s tape measure can help as well if you have a marker of some sort to start from. Fence lines, survey tape marking trees or branches, driveways, and other identifiers can give clues. Nothing beats a proper survey though and you are going to want that when it comes time to build.

 

Get as certain as possible on the big 5.

Buying vacant land on Whidbey Island, Land Specialist, windermere Real Estate, Best of Whidbey

Water, sewage, electricity, access, and building envelope. These are the big 5 mysteries when you first look at a raw and overgrown piece of land. The more that these 5 things have been figured out and addressed by the Seller, the more valuable the property is. You are buying risk when these 5 are unknown. You cannot avoid risk completely but figuring out as much as you can about these 5 will help you move forward more confidently.

 

Work with a local builder.

Buying vacant land on Whidbey Island, Land Specialist, windermere Real Estate, Best of Whidbey, work with a builder

Get the local builder to the lot sooner than later. Reputable builders on Whidbey will be able to help you through the feasibility process, have a great instinct for what is possible, contacts to get specialists out to the property, and experience working with Island County’s Building department. Here are 5 builders we recommend in no particular order…

    1. Cascade Custom Homes
    2. Yonkman Construction
    3. Nautilus Construction
    4. Waldron Construction
    5. Turpin Construction

 

Know your critical areas.

Buying vacant land on Whidbey Island, Land Specialist, windermere Real Estate, Best of Whidbey, Critical areas

Shorelines, native American artifacts, endangered animals and plants, steep slopes and bluffs, wetlands, and streams will affect the property in big ways. There are large set-back requirements for structures, wells, and septic systems around critical areas. You may get into a situation where you do not have much of a choice about where you can position your building site. These unknowns must be understood before you decide to close on the lot. Your Realtor can help you navigate this maze.

 

Each property is unique, and we could share a lot more with you on the topic of buying vacant land on Whidbey, but the truth is that the best thing you can do is find yourself an excellent guide who will help you assess what it is you are really looking for and how to narrow down the search. Good luck and do not forget your muck boots!

 

PHOTOS BY: Kelsey Kurtis

Real Estate January 15, 2021

How to Become a Licensed Real Estate Broker in Washington

Step by Step, How to Become a Licensed Real Estate Broker in Washington

 

  1. Pick a school and do your 90 hours of course work. At Windermere, we recommend Rockwell Institute because it is consistent and has proven success at getting people prepared to pass the exam. Current cost $489 (January 2021).
    1. HOT TIP: There is an add on to get sample exams and extra cramming practice. GET IT!
  2.  Do the following steps as you get closer to completing the 90 hours to break up the studying with actions that will prepare you for taking the exam and getting licensed…
  3. Fingerprints! The closest location to Whidbey Island is in Mt. Vernon. You can schedule your appointment on this IdentoGO site. At the time of this blog post (January 2021), it cost $42.80 for the fingerprints and background check. Go to this DOL site for more info.
  4. Set up a SAW account (Secure Access Washington) if you haven’t already for your driver’s license. For more info: https://www.dol.wa.gov/business/accountaccess.html
  5. Register as a student with AMP through psi here https://ampportal.goamp.com/School/SchoolUser/WAREPStudentRegistration.aspx
  6. Register for the exam. Cost $138.25 https://online.goamp.com/CandidateHome/examination.aspx?p_category=REAL%20ESTATE&p_client_code=WAREP&p_exam_id=21311
  7. Once you’ve passed the exams apply for your license! https://secureaccess.wa.gov/myAccess/saw/select.do

 

* Contact the WA DOL Real Estate licensing department if you need extra help. We recommend emailing them instead of calling for a faster response. https://www.dol.wa.gov/business/realestate/contact.html

 

Follow these suggestions to get yourself mentally and physically ready to launch your real estate career:

 

  1. Pick a brokerage.                                                                                                                                Pick a brokerage, Windermere, real estate                                                                                                                                                           Interview the top brokerages in your area. Since the real estate exam process doesn’t really give you what you need to serve people or build your own business you want to join a brokerage with a robust training program and ongoing support. Schedule a no-pressure introduction meeting with our brokerage today! Email us at WhidbeyCommunications@Windermere.com to do so.
  2. Change your phone number to a local area code if it is not already. Nowadays all cell phones have caller ID and everyone is screening calls from out of state numbers. Do not confuse people, all real estate is local and your phone number should be too.
  3. If you are beginning your real estate career in November or December then now is a great time to start collecting mailing addresses for Christmas cards.
  4. Read some books. We give one of our favorites out a lot!
  5. Snoop on the local real estate brokers.                                                                                    snoop the local brokers, become an agent                                                                                                                                                                 What do you see that you like, what don’t you like? Take note! Social media is one good place to find a broker then check out top brokers’ web pages. If you don’t know any go to the website of the brokerage you’re thinking about, head to the agent’s page, and start clicking links. Ours is right here!
  6. Interview brokers you admire. Take a broker that catches your attention online for a cup of coffee (they really do like it!). Ask them all the questions but more importantly LISTEN. Some suggested questions are…              Interview, How to become a licensed broker in Washington
    1. What do you like most about being a real estate broker? Least?
    2. What do you like most about your brokerage? Least?
    3. What advice would you give someone like me who is just getting into the business?
  7. Download our guide to 5 things you can do to give yourself a head start here.

 

Real EstateStats January 1, 2021

2020 Annual Report

OH- 2020 Annual Report Download by Windermere Whidbey Island

Real Estate October 26, 2020

Moving with Pets

We all know moving can be stressful…

Moving with Petsbut have you stopped to consider how a move can affect your pets?

Here are a couple of suggestions to consider while moving to help make the transition easier on both you and your pets.

Contact Your Vet:

Let your pets’ vet know that you will be moving. Your vet can provide you good information on the best way to move with your pet and make sure you have enough medications for the duration of the trip. They can answer any questions you have and they might even be able to help you find a good vet in your new location if you are moving out of the area. Do not forget to get your pet’s records before you move.

Best Friend’s Veterinary Center

33285 WA-20, Oak Harbor, WA 98277
(360) 679-6796

North Whidbey Veterinary Hospital

1020 NE 7th Ave #4, Oak Harbor, WA 98277
(360) 679-3772

Penn Cove Veterinary Clinic

107 S Main St, Coupeville, WA 98239
(360) 678-6046

Central Whidbey Veterinary Services Inc

771 Patmore Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239
(360) 678-1881

Create a Moving Kit:

Gather supplies to keep your pet comfortable during the travel and supplies on hand for the first several days of unpacking.

  • Pet food
  • Food, Water, and Bowls
  • Medication
  • Grooming tools
  • Toys
  • Blanket
  • Poop Bags
  • Leash
  • Treats
  • Documentation and a picture

The Day of Packing:

Our pets feel anxieties, just like we do when things change around them. It is best during a move if you can keep them away from all the action. A simple option is often putting them in a kennel or letting them stay with a friend. If you cannot or do not want to do either of those; try making a quiet room in the house where they can safely stay away from all the hustle and bustle. It is also important to check on them often and try to walk them when you normally would.

Things to remember:

  • Make sure they have enough ventilation
  • Make sure they are not too hot or too cold
  • Make sure they have enough food and water
  • Let them have some toys

 
Taking Your Pet With You:

Moving With Pets

When possible, it’s best to travel with your pet to curb their anxiety. There are a lot of factors to consider when deciding the best way to transport your pet such as their age, temperament, size, and species. Regardless, it’s always important to ensure your pet’s safety when traveling which is why we have included a few links below with helpful pet gadgets.

Do Not Go Off-Leash in Unfamiliar Areas:

Moving With Pets, Walking Dog, On leash, Whidbey Island, Parks on Whidbey

Remember that new locations mean unfamiliar areas. If your pet gets out while traveling they might get lost. Additionally, when you get to your new home it is important that you take the time to be with your pet to discover the new area so they don’t get lost and can find there way back to their new home. This is also an important reason to bring documentation and a picture of your pet with you in case they get lost.

Introduce One Room at a Time with Familiar Items:

Consider setting up one room first with familiar items for your pet to stay in while you prepare the rest of the house. Give your pet a lot of attention and slowly introduce them to each new room giving them plenty of time to adjust to their new surroundings and familiarize themselves with the new setting. You also might consider crating them when you leave them alone for the first few weeks. New environments can cause pets to break house training.

Things to do When You Get to Your New Location:

Moving with Pets

You might also like:
Dog Parks On Whidbey, Windermere Whidbey, Whidbey Island

Places October 5, 2020

Where to Buy Pumpkins on Whidbey

One of the very best things about autumn on Whidbey Island is being able to support all of our local farmers! Whether you’re looking for a Whidbey Island pumpkin patch recommendation or you’re new in town and want to start a tradition, you’ll find 3 excellent choices right here:

Where to buy your pumpkins on Whidbey, Whidbey island, Annie cash

The Farm Stand at K & R Farms

Located at 36699 SR 20 Oak Harbor, Washington

Every Friday and Saturday night throughout October, you can embark on The Farm Stand’s Flashlight Corn Maze. The maze is open from dark until 10pm and is free for customers with a purchase. (A limited number of flashlights are available to rent if you don’t have one.) RSVP on Facebook here so you don’t forget! You can also stop by for fresh produce and of course, make time to go for a walk in the pumpkin patch.

 

Case Farm

Located at the end of Case Road Oak Harbor, Washington

Case Farm has been around since 1898, and they have been proud farmers for 5 generations now. This year they started a farm stand at the end of the pavement on Case Road where they sell an assortment of produce. 

You can even stop by just to say hello to their animals (cows, turkeys, ducks, chickens, cats, and dogs)! Enjoy picking out a pumpkin in their field or buy some harvest decor and fresh fall produce while you’re at it. Little ones can take a turn at a toddler-friendly bale maze.

Case Farm also hosts educational visits for school and preschool groups to teach them about farming—visit their Facebook page for contact info!

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Khal Drogo🐾 (@khaldoggo) on

Sherman’s Pioneer Farm

Located at 46 S Ebey Rd Coupeville, Washington

Established all the way back in 1852, this Whidbey staple shines extra bright when October comes around. Visit Sherman’s Pioneer Farm to stock up on pumpkins, edible squash, and gourds; go for a trolly ride to the pumpkin patch; pick up fresh pies and other baked goods; visit their cows, and more. In previous years they’ve had a hay bale maze and a haunted house too—and of course, there are photo ops around every corner!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Family Tides At Whidbey Island (@familytidesatwhidbey) on

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ben & Edith Tuft (@shermanspioneerfarmshop) on

 

Written by:

Annie Cash, Windermere, Real Estate, Whidbey Island, Broker

If You Liked This You Might Also Like:

Squash

Things to Do on Whidbey October 3, 2020

Squash

It is that time of year when the fruits of our labors begin filling up not only our dinner plates but also become an integral part of beautifying the spaces around us. You guessed it, we are talking about SQUASH.

If you are anything like some of these green thumb agents, you have spent the past several months pouring your heart and soul into your garden prepping to produce these beautiful and tasty gems. But it is quite possible that you now have so many you do not know what to do with them. If that is the case keep reading for places you can donate your extras…. like my office.

Perhaps you are more like those of us that take advantage of the local Farm to Table programs our local farm community has to offer. You may have begun to receive these tasty treats in your special boxes. Keep reading to discover one of my favorite recipes.

BUT….maybe your most like me and you are… “Growing them…well… in the grocery store”. Let’s be honest autumn is my favorite time of year, but I wasn’t blessed with a green thumb. I am more like a big kid eagerly waiting for Shermans Farm to open so I can enjoy the full experience of finding the perfect squash for tonight’s dinner. I like sipping my warm cup of cider while riding on the tractor taking in the beautiful Whidbey farm views and snapping pictures of my kids next to the biggest pumpkins they can find.

Regardless of who you are, there is one thing we all have in common this season. We will all come into contact with SQUASH!

The majority of people will likely only use them as decorations, and that is ok. There is no denying these power-packed veggies are beautiful and studies show that sprucing up the space around you will make you feel happier. So, first things first…

Let’s Get Crafty:

CENTERPIECE

It can take as little or as much creativity as you desire. Place a variety of squash together with some leaves, flowers, candles, or acorns to spruce up your gathering space. For more inspiration follow one of our favorites local to our area: Erin Benzakein, founder of Floret. Floret is a Skagit Valley family-owned farm and seed company and New York Times Best Selling Author of A Year in Flowers for tutorials on arrangements.

OVERSIZED ACORN WITH ACORN SQUASH

Acorn Squash,

Supplies you will need:

  • Hot Glue Gun
  • Hot Glue
  • Twine
  • Acorn Squash

Begin by placing a dab of glue at the top of your squash. Make a loop in the twine and attach the top of your squash. Place glue around the top ¼ of the squash and being laying your twine in a circular motion starting at the stem and continuing down to a ¼ of the squash, carefully laying each layer of twine up against the last.

 


For the Tummy:

Most importantly, squash provides a plethora of nutrients for our bodies. It is quite literally called a power-pack veggie. They are high in Vitamin A, B6, and C, folate, magnesium, fiber, riboflavin, phosphorus, and potassium.

The best thing about squash is that there are so many ways to eat it. I love it SO MUCH I am attaching one of my simple favorites.

Acorn Squash

BAKED ACORN SQUASH WITH BUTTER & BROWN SUGAR

Serves: 2-4     |      Preparation: 10min     |     Cooking: 1 HR 15 min

Ingredients:

  • 1 Acorn squash
  • 1 Tbsp Butter
  • 2 Tbsp Brown Sugar
  • 2 teaspoons Maple Syrup
  • Dash of Salt

DOWNLOAD THE FULL RECIPE CARD HERE!

 


Uplift the Community with Your Extras:

With all joking aside, if you have been blessed with having too much squash this year, the North Whidbey Help House in Oak Harbor, and Good Cheer Food Bank in Langley would love to have your donations.

 

Stay blessed. Have a favorite squash recipe or idea you want to share? Let us know in the comments below.

If You Enjoyed Reading This You Might Also Like:

Dog Parks On Whidbey, Windermere Whidbey, Whidbey Island