Your resource for tips, ideas, and enjoying life in the Inland Northwest
Choosing the right tent involves understanding your speci c needs. Di erent types of tents o er di erent features. Here are a few things to consider.
If you’re camping with family or friends, space is essential to keep everyone in good spirits. Choose a tent that can accommodate at least one extra person beyond your group’s size. e tent’s capacity is determined by the number of sleeping bags it can t.
Assess the tent’s oor space to get a clear idea of how much space you’ll have. Pay close attention to the height of the tent, especially if you want to
stand up inside. Chalet and tunnel tents tend to o er more height but are generally less stable than dome tents.
Some pop-up tents provide easy setup, saving you time. However, they take up more space when packed, so make sure you have room to transport them.
If you like going on long canoe trips, backwoods hiking or bike-packing, opt for a lightweight and compact tent. Stick to a model that accommodates your needs; there’s no room for an eight-person tent in your backpack!
Keep in mind that lightweight tents are thinner, so always use a ground sheet to protect the oor from rough terrain. Also, vestibules are essential for keeping your gear dry without cluttering the tent.
It’s also a good idea to have two doors, so you don’t have to climb over your camping companions when you get up at night. Just remember, more doors can add weight to the tent.
Choose a tent with a double roof that sits close to the ground and has sealed seams for better waterproo ng. Ensure proper air circulation by having at least two screen doors. If you plan on camping in winter, invest in a winter tent. Winter tents can withstand snow and strong winds better than three-season tents.
Happy shopping!
RECREATIONAL VEHICLES
Practical buying guide and driving tips
Do you dream of taking a recreational vehicle (RV) on a cross-country trip, going camping on weekends, or spending the entire summer outdoors? Keep reading to find out more.
HOW TO CHOOSE AN RV
Buying an RV is a significant investment, so you’ll want to make an informed decision. Here’s a quick overview of your options.
• Class A motorhome. This is the largest and most luxurious motorized RV, often resembling a bus. You’ll enjoy comfort and privacy, but its size will make manoeuvring it a challenge. Additionally, you may need a car to get around once you arrive at your destination.
• Class B motorhome. This smaller option is gaining popularity thanks to the “van life” trend. If you don’t mind limited interior space and plan to be on the move a lot, this vehicle could be perfect for you.
• Class C motorhome. This option is a cross between a Class A and a Class B RV, offering ample living and storage space while being easier to drive than a Class A. This is often a good choice for families. However, the purchase price can be relatively high.
• Pull-behinds. With options like fifth wheels, tent trailers, and hybrid trailers, towable models cater to various needs. If you want to easily pick up and leave your “home” at the campsite while you go exploring, these models are ideal. Just remember to check your car’s towing capacity.
When calculating your budget, in addition to the purchase price of the RV, you must consider
the cost of insurance, roadside assistance, fuel, maintenance and storage (if needed). You’ll also need to budget for things like bedding and dishware.
DO I NEED A DIFFERENT DRIVER’S LICENCE?
Unless you’re going BIG, probably not. Most states do not require a special license for RVs weighing under 26,000 pounds. The average Class B weighs between 6,000 and 8,000 pounds, while a Class C typically weighs between 10,000 and 12,000 pounds. Class A vehicles can range from 13,000 to 30,000 pounds. Keep these tips in mind:
• Slow down and maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles. Because RVs are heavier, they take longer to stop, and their larger size makes them more easily affected by wind.
• To ensure stability, take corners smoothly and avoid sudden deceleration.
•Pay close attention to your visibility. Blind spots are more pronounced in larger vehicles.
•Never overload your RV. Excess weight can lead to issues like brake failure, which can cause accidents.
• Familiarize yourself with your RV’s size, and pay attention to road signs, especially when you’re approaching overpasses.
• Plan your itinerary to avoid roads where RVs are prohibited.
Finally, consider taking a specialized driving course to gain additional skills and confidence.
Happy travels!
Mosquitoes can be a real nuisance when you’re camping, but waking up in the middle of the night to a soaked tent is even worse. Follow these tips to avoid this nightmare.
Pitch your tent on a at area located on high ground to allow water runo and prevent pooling. Position your tent under the cover of trees for natural shelter. Choosing several
trees rather than one will minimize your risk of a lightning strike.
Stretch a taut, sloped tarp securely to the trees above your tent to de ect rain. Also, don’t forget to protect the picnic table so you have a place outside the tent to enjoy meals and play games in bad weather.
Even on rainy days, leave at least one small opening in your tent to allow air circulation. is will help prevent condensation caused by your breathing from building up inside, which can increase humidity. For the same reason, avoid bringing wet items into the tent.
Keep
micro ber towels on hand to wipe your feet as you enter the tent and to mop up any water that seeps in. Hang wet gear on a clothesline. If the rain isn’t letting up, hang your clothes under the tarp to dry.
Finally, pack a pair of rain boots, a raincoat and a change of clothes, including plenty of socks. Store your
clothes in a plastic tub to keep them dry, regardless of the weather.
What better way to enjoy the sunny weather in utter tranquility than by riding a bicycle? Feel the sense of freedom as you pedal along your community’s many beautiful bike paths. There are countless reasons to set out this summer on your two-wheeled steed.
GET AWAY FROM IT ALL…
Bicycling is more than an invigorating outdoor sport; it’s an active and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. You can hop on your bike for a peaceful ride in a refreshing setting while burning off energy. Taking a bike trail along the water or through the countryside helps you unplug from your daily routine, breathe in the fresh air and appreciate the beauty of nature. Plus, you’ll create lasting memories!
Beyond the enjoyable experience, bicycling enables you to explore new places without contributing to the planet’s pollution. Visit a city without wearing out your feet or losing precious time looking for parking. Alternatively, you can follow a tourist route focused on special interests, such as wine tasting or visual art. Set your own pace as you pursue your passions.
Whether you cycle alone or with friends, you’re sure to have a good time.
…WHILE CARING FOR YOUR HEALTH!
In addition to being low impact on your joints (making it especially beneficial for older adults), cycling offers numerous advantages for your health:
•It strengthens your cardiovascular system
•It tones your leg muscles
•It strengthens your bones
•It improves your circulation
•It reduces your risk for cancer, diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure
•It helps reduce stress
•It promotes a sense of well-being
In other words, bicycling is the perfect ally for your physical and mental health.
What are you waiting for? Get your bike tuned up and start planning your next two-wheel escapade.
If your backyard is in need of an upgrade, here are some ways to give it a makeover.
INSTALL OUTDOOR LIGHTING
Enjoy your backyard both day and night by installing smart outdoor lighting that turns itself on when the sun goes down. You can even choose a system that allows you to match the intensity and color of the lights to the situation. This way, you can create the perfect atmosphere for every evening, from quiet nights at home to festive barbecues with friends.
INCORPORATE NATURAL MATERIALS
Natural materials like wood and stone are ideal for most landscaping projects and complement design esthetics ranging from traditional to modern. For a more contemporary look, pair wood and stone with corten steel, which can be used for fireplaces, garden edging and flowerpots. Additionally, plants like vines, grasses and succulents enhance wood and stone features.
CREATE A NATURAL POOL
In a natural swimming pool, water is filtered using oxygenating and purifying plants rather than chlorine and other chemicals. Besides being kinder to the environment, these pools are often designed to imitate natural bodies of water and therefore blend into your yard more than traditional pools. If you don’t have room for a swimming pool, consider enhancing your outdoor space with a water feature like a fountain or small pond.
RETHINK OUTDOOR COOKING
Outdoor kitchens are increasingly popular. Consider upgrading from your basic barbecue to an integrated grill with a counter and sink. Other features you may want to include are a bar, a smoker and a wood-burning pizza oven.
To get started on your backyard makeover project, be sure to get hold of a reputable landscaping company or general contractor. Beautify
Nothing planned for summer vacation?
Have you decided to keep a loose schedule while on vacation, letting your mood lead the way rather than sticking to a rigid plan? Perhaps you’re just looking for something entertaining to do on a Saturday afternoon. Here’s a lineup of exciting possibilities.
Get rolling. Grab your bike or rollerblades and zoom along the best cycling paths in your area.
Go for a picnic. Pack a cold meal or pick up ready-to-eat dishes from a local shop. Then, find your own little slice of paradise to enjoy your food outdoors.
Play board games. Head to a board game pub with friends to enjoy an exciting match of your favorite game or discover a new one.
Watch a movie on the big screen. Choose a film that catches your eye, head to your nearest theater and relax while enjoying some popcorn.
Get out on the water. Take a dip at the beach, paddle on a lake, try water skiing or visit a water park for hours of fun.
Go to the park. Bring a book, frisbee or ball, and gather with family or friends for a relaxed day of outdoor fun.
Go for a hike. Walk along a river, explore a forest and various ecosystems, admire waterfalls or contemplate the world from a mountaintop.
Support local producers. Create a culinary excursion to visit a farmer’s market or discover local specialties like beer, honey and cheese.
Dive into history. Step back in time by visiting a historic site, following a heritage trail, or taking a tour of a religious building in your area.
Explore a museum. Whether you’re interested in archaeology, fine arts, history or science, there’s something for everyone. Get ready to broaden your horizons.
Go shopping. Treat yourself to a shopping spree at local stores. Find something new that puts a smile on your face. You deserve it!
Visit an indoor amusement park. Take your little ones to jump, run, climb and slide, letting them expend their energy while having a great time.
Relax in a cafe. Spend some quiet time in a ceramic painting cafe, a pet-friendly coffee shop or a unique establishment to break up the normal outine.
Admire animals of all sizes. Take a short trip to marvel at fish, birds, reptiles, insects, and animals of all kinds; all sheltered from the rain in an indoor venue.
Whatever you choose, have a great day out!
Maple garlic KEFTA KEBABS
INGREDIENTS
•500 grams ground pork
•500 grams ground veal
•2 green onions, finely chopped
•1 egg
•3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
•3 tablespoons maple syrup
•1 teaspoon garlic salt
•Salt and pepper to taste
•Wood skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
DIRECTIONS
1.In a bowl, thoroughly mix all ingredients.
2.Divide the mixture into 8 portions Shape each portion into a tube around one of the skewers.
Beauty SETINSTONE.
3.Preheat the barbecue to medium heat.
4.Grill the kefta for about 2 minutes on each side, until browned.
5.Transfer to top grill to finish cooking. Serve either wrapped in pita bread with a yogurt dressing or on top of a salad.
Start to finish: 20 minutes Serves: 8
If you don’t have wooden skewers on hand, you can form the mixture into burger patties instead!
8 steps for getting
PERFECTLY GRILLED BURGERS at home
To wow your guests with perfectly grilled burgers at your next cookout, follow these eight steps.
1.Use medium ground beef instead of lean for a tastier burger. You can also mix different meats like pork or lamb.
2.Season your meat with enough salt and pepper to give it some flavour. Add other seasonings as desired.
3.Make your patties the same size to ensure they cook within an identical timeframe. Using a kitchen scale or measuring cup will help. A hundred grams (or approximately half a cup) is ideal for creating patties.
getting the grill very hot before putting the burgers on.
6.Only flip them once. Rotating, squashing or moving them around will cause your meat to become tough.
7.Cook for three minutes on each side for medium rare (not recommended when using pork), four minutes a side for medium or five minutes a side for well-done burgers.
8.Allow your burgers to sit for five minutes before eating.
Toast some buns, garnish with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
4.Flatten the patties before grilling them and use your finger to make shallow divots in the middles. This will prevent your burgers from becoming dome shaped.
