By creating a local food system, LINC connects people with fresher, healthier foods, drives community connections, and strengthens our local economy. What began as a way to connect farmers to wholesale customers (i.e. local restaurants) quickly expanded into a box subscription so individuals could take advantage of the program.  

“We’ve been so impressed by the extent of people who want to buy locally, even in the winter. Eating with the seasons can be challenging,” says Michelle Youngblom, manager and marketing director of LINC foods. You may find less-common produce in your winter boxes, like parsnips, but LINC provides recipe suggestions with each shipment to give you ideas on how to use your food.  

Great produce aside, LINC actively reduces carbon emissions by lowering food miles. They reuse cardboard boxes and use biodegradable packaging liners for their shipments. By connecting local farmers with a steady stream of customers through shoulder season, when farmers’ markets go away, they make it sustainable for small farmers to continue their best practices. The vision is to create a vibrant and more sustainable food system in the Inland Northwest, where getting in tune with your seasonal veggies and farmers connects you to the place.  

“When folks know the story behind the incredible-tasting peach or tomato they’re biting into, they’re able to feel connected to and hold appreciation for the farmers and the land where it grew,” says Youngblom. “Maybe it will inspire them to meet their farmer at the farmers’ market, visit a local farm, or get involved in land preservation projects.”  

LINC also works to make local foods more affordable for low-income families. They’ve partnered with the Spokane-based Food is For All program; Produce Rx, where doctors are able to prescribe produce boxes for people with nutrition-related health issues; and the We Feed Washington Program, which provides local food to 15 emergency food partners in our region, serving about 3,200 households monthly.  

If a produce subscription isn’t right for you, you can visit LINC’s website to place a one-time order of seasonal veggies from the LINC market. You can also order a ranch box, with local meats, a wine box, or include add-ons to any box in the form of microgreens, bread, mushrooms, fruit, flowers, eggs and more. LINC delivers within 10 miles of downtown Spokane, with pickup locations included in Spokane, Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Coeur d’Alene and Cheney.  

“We’ve loved being able to hear from our customers that opening their LINC Box is the highlight of their week,” says Youngblom. To cut back on trips to the grocery store, enjoy seasonal produce, and support your local farmer, sign up for your box at Lincfoods.com. 

The post Out There Advertiser Spotlight: LINC Foods Cooperative  appeared first on Out There Venture.

KEEP IT LOCAL

To get in the spirit, I picked up our 8-year-old from school and set off for some of our favorite local stores. We do our best to keep it local for the single reason that it keeps our community vibrant. At some of these stores, we know the owners by name, and they know us. They show us their favorite items in the store and usually have a story to go with it. They show our kiddo the loudest noise makers and delight in his delight. The purchases from these local stores pay local employees who are then more likely to spend their paychecks locally. More money stays in our community when we shop local. It’s a win-win.

The other thing about some of the specialty stores we’ve included in this guide is that they have finds our loved ones might never purchase for themselves. Sure, an Amazon gift card could cover the necessities and is appreciated. But, where else can you find a Great Blue Heron mobile that flies or a handmade mushroom mug? Shop local. It’s more interesting.

THE ART OF GIVING A GIFT

It’s not just the thrill of the find or wrapping it beautifully or watching someone open your gift with anticipation. A look of delight and gratitude on the receiver’s face can be so rewarding to the giver. Something small that says “I see you” deepens the bond between people.  When you consider the intrinsic value of a thoughtful gift, it can add fire to your gift search. And there are many types of gift-giving to consider—from material goods to outdoors experiences or donations to community organizations, we hope you enjoy this guide as much as we enjoyed shopping around town to find treasures for your loved ones.

BIKES/OUTDOOR GEAR

For the gearheads in your life, the options are endless. We’ve recently gifted the strider-riding kids we know nice helmets to protect their growing brains, in colors they love from North Division Bike Shop. Brenda, the owner, always helps us find the right gift, from the perfect bike to handlebar bells and baskets. Bike lights that help the cyclist in your life ride in the dark days of winter is always appreciated. You might not be able to gift the feeling of wind-in-your-hair, adrenaline-pumping fun, but you can gift the bike and accessories that make it easier (and safer) for them to get out there.

Shred Sports outlet on Division has your standard snow/water sports/ bike gear selection, but they also have some fun toys tucked away. The collection of Lucky Scooters can keep the whole family moving this spring. While we wait for the sun to warm us, gift the 686 Waterproof Hooded Puffer Blanket ($119). It can convert to a puffer poncho, and who couldn’t use a little more comfort and style this winter?

For the skier in your life, consider a pair of lift tickets. If they have a pass, consider gifting day passes to another resort to find some new favorite runs. Pair it with a fun, printed Black Strap Goggle Cover and they will think of you every time they cover and uncover their goggles ($15). Other ski gear: Smith Wireless Audio setup for helmets ($130) or a gear bag to keep it organized ($75-$130), all found at Alpine Haus.

For the paddler in your life, a backpack dry bag is useful for day trips and overnight trips. It’s useful for the boat, the beach, the paddleboard and keeping the rain away from your essentials. NRS, a local store in Moscow, Idaho, has a great selection. Go for the backpack version.

Some might think of Rambleraven Gear Trader as a consignment-only outdoor store, but it’s not. Sure, you will probably find a very gently used treasure in their racks of clothes and shoes, but you can also source new gear from them. It’s the local go-to for Spokane’s gear store. In Coeur d’Alene, check out Escape Outdoors in the Riverstone area.

If your person is a fitness fanatic, the Fitness Fanatics store has some great gift options. I’ve heard suggestions dropped around our house for a bike trainer. They have a nice selection. They also have a fabulous selection of snowshoes. We like the ultralight Atlas Helium ($230) with the largest pair weighing in at 3lbs, 12oz.

Wheel Sport has a store in every corner of Spokane, making it easy to stock up on items for your bike riders. And, if you are in the market to make a kid’s Christmas, check out their kids’ bike selection. For the tech-loving cyclist in your life, check out the Sigma Pure 1 ($45), a simple bike computer that can tell your rider how fast, how far and how long they’re going. Really, you are giving the gift of accurate bragging!

BOOKS AND MAPS

My reading habits have changed over time, from fiction and select learning to kids’ books. Auntie’s Bookstore has a healthy selection of every genre. We also wander through the journals, stickers, calendars, coloring books, tote bags, bookmarks and gifts before we hit the check-out stand. The other thing I love about Auntie’s is the trade in program. We can clean out our stacks of well-loved books and get credit for new books. It helps us detach from the books we’ve outgrown and find new books. We are currently reading “Spy Ski School,” though I have “The Cold Millions” by Jess Walter tucked into my nightstand. Give the gift of escape with a book!

Shopping locally for books is easy. Check out these other Spokane treasures: 42 Pages is full of used books for the budget conscious // Second Look Books on the South Hill also has an OTO rack! // Wishing Tree Books in the Perry neighborhood is a treasure of kids’ books and just feels good to wander around // Giant Nerd Books on Garland has a great selection of used and new books. // Book Traders, also on Garland, is a magic little store of used books. We came home with an armful of books.

Give the gift of navigation with the new summer and winter trail map of Mount Spokane State Park. Whether your giftee is a mountain biker, hiker, bird watcher, Nordic skier or trail runner, this map will help them plan their next adventure. Washington State Parks in partnership with the Friends of Mount Spokane produced this full-color, detailed map printed on waterproof, durable paper to last even the toughest treks. Maps can be purchased at our local REI, Fitness Fanatics, The Bike Hub, Mojo Cyclery and other local outdoor stores or online at inlandnwland.org.

CLASSES AND EXPERIENCES

Give the gift of feeling at home in your body. Yoga is not just for the flexible! A month of unlimited yoga classes from Harmony Yoga is an affordable and creative gift that says “love the body you are in.” The environment is welcoming to all ages, abilities and backgrounds. Tight muscles from running? Aging hips? Anxiety from life and work? Yoga can assist with soothing all the things. With free loaner mats and no mirrors, Harmony Yoga makes it easy to attend a class.

A good massage is one that not only helps your muscles and tissues feel better, but one that also calms the central nervous system. A gift card for a massage is a gift that will help someone find a massage therapist and get them on the table for some relaxing relief after their winter outdoor adventures.

Gifting experiences to kids enriches their lives. When my parents started to become overwhelmed by the number of people in our family, they shifted away from material gifts to a trip. This year, we are going to Silver Mountain in March to enjoy spring skiing and the water park. The combined condos make it easy to prepare and share meals and spend mornings watching cartoons with the little ones.

These other experiences make good gifts too: Ninja Classes for kids  at Spokane Gymnastics / Wild Walls Kids’ Climbing Clubs // Science & Stuffies sewing camps at Let’s Get Sewing // Spokane Parks and Recreation has an abundance of classes from art workshops to snowshoe dinners. 

Most resorts have ski lessons which can work with your schedule. Mt. Spokane has a full spring schedule of camps for skiers, for littles and older kids. The gift of skiing is giving the gift of loving winter!

Get creative with a food tour from Wander Spokane ($70), Cooking Class at Commellini Estates ($85), paddleboard or kayak season passes with Fun Unlimited ($160), or gift a Boat Club Membership for those who are having too much fun to maintain a boat, so they can walk onto one of the fleet ready to hit it at Carefree Boat Club of North Idaho (call for pricing).

OUTDOORS JEWELRY & CRYSTALS

If you love the outdoors, we are guessing you love nature. And if you love jewelry and nature, the combo makes a nice gift. My sister gifted me a necklace of a tiny silver Coeur d’Alene Lake from Solder & Stone. It’s a daily reminder of my love of water and our region. The Coeur d’Alene-based Bumblebee Jewelry (shop online) has handmade silver jewelry that donates a portion of each sale to Xerces Society to help protect the company’s namesake. Tracy Jewelry on Evergreen and Kizuri also had nice nature-inspired jewelry finds.

My Crystal Stop in north Spokane has a beautiful selection of crystals and jewelry. They can help pick out a special piece to match with the energy your loved one is creating in their life.

KITCHEN/COFFEE/FOOD

If you know someone who plays hard, but needs their coffee first, visit DOMA Coffee Roasting Company in Post Falls, Idaho, for craft coffee and accessories. Our van has an AeroPress and we highly recommend this for any coffee-loving camper. If you know someone who finds adventure in coffee, give them DOMA’s newest Gesha specialty coffee, complete with an original signed art label from local artist Jeff Weir. Or sign them up for a DOMA Coffee subscription, so they get awesome coffee delivered to their door. We love The Chronic dark roast (bonus groovy adventure van art on the label).

During the darker months, we tend to cook at home more. To spice up home-cooked creations, we love to use Inland Empire Spices on Monroe to give food special flavors. For burgers, we love the Smashburger Seasoning. For wild caught salmon, we use the Smokin’ Huckleberry Rub. For veggies, check out their Greek Seasoning. They also have gift sets where the tea and seasonings come in vials—these would be perfect tucked into stockings!

When shopping at the Main Market Co-op in downtown Spokane, we were delighted to find kitchen goods that reminded us of our love for nature. I found beautiful juice glasses with poppies, sea creatures, bees and trillium. Pair the set with homemade cranberry syrup and soda water for a nature-inspired mocktail set.

An adventurer who is also a chef/bbq master/veggie lover or just plain foodie might be delighted by a box of ingredients! LINC Foods has a subscription for all things local—even a beer box. The Herd, a ranch in eastern Washington, has beef boxes that ship farm-raised beef to your door. Gift the whole box or take out a steak for your own BBQ.

TOYS

Though kids appreciate the holidays for religious reasons or the outdoor snow play, the most exciting gift that most any kid will cite are the toys. The Red Rider BB gun is not on the list in our house, but these creative, local and sustainable toys are.

Games from Uncle’s Games or Merlyn’s: Card games and board games bring connection throughout the year. Our favorites are Uno Flip, Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, and any Harry Potter Game. For a more complex game, check out Forbidden Desert, recommended for ages 10+. This co-op board game has you excavating a solar-powered flying machine while trying to stay alive in the outdoor elements of a desert storm. We found this one at Whiz Kids. Hunt around and see if there’s a new game that will delight your family for hours in these dark months.

Whiz Kids also has a fun science section with telescopes, microscopes and experiments. They have one for understanding climate change, which can be hard to understand the how and why even for the science-minded kid. For the art-focused kids, they have kits to learn knitting by making butterflies and DIY kaleidoscope kits. There will be a Transforming Sphere under our tree this year. I’m not sure why these are so popular, but I’m sure the kids can tell you!

Boo Radley’s is a trove of treasures for every age. Kids love the interesting and unique finds, from tin lunch boxes to finger puppets, unique stuffies and toys.

For those kids who miss the toy section of The White Elephant, look no farther than just a few blocks north at The General Store. The selection of toys, games and Lego sets will keep any kiddo busy for hours. Don’t forget to shop for classics that will inspire outdoor time like a set of kid’s binoculars or a good old-fashioned sled.

A few more things on our list: Toddlers love the bike rider on a stick found at Kizuri. The “instruments” (aka noise makers) at Kizuri are also a kid favorite, though some of them might need to stay at grandma’s house. Art supplies from Spokane Art Supply on Monroe are sure to delight the little or big artists on your list.

PERSONAL CARE

If your loved one ventures off the trail and into the wild, a year subscription to Life Flight is most likely on the need list. Paired with a satellite communication device, we have been happy to have this combo on river-trips, backcountry ski adventures and high mountain bikepacking slogs. Not only does it save lives, it helps the ones left home to relax and know that you have a plan in case of an emergency. It might be the best care item on our list.

The Dragon Balm XTRA Strength ($32) from APEX Cannabis can help soothe tired muscles that play hard. We’ve been happy to have it after a long day of skiing or even just after sitting at the computer for a while. They have a variety, so you can pick up a lavender scented cream or one that will leave you smelling like a Chinese herb store. If you know someone who struggles to sleep, or sleep in a tent/unfamiliar place, consider gifting Lil Rays, 100mg shooters. They can take the edge off and help someone get to sleep. Is there a better gift than good sleep?

When I think of gifts that make my life better, but I won’t buy for myself, these two things come to mind. First, IV Therapy. Gifting someone hydration and nutrition through a needle in their arm might seem strange, until you see the benefits. We had Carlee at IV Offerings come to our house (yes, she does home visits) to administer a migraine solution of magnesium, b & c vitamins and other things that might not absorb as well in my celiac gut. It goes right into the blood stream and the results are fewer migraines. Second, personal training for a set period of time. As the New Year Wellness season kicks off, starting the season with someone who is invested in your fitness journey can keep you going past February. Donnie at Torq Personal Training has created a welcoming, kind environment with tools to help day to day between workout sessions. //

Shallan Knowles is the designer and co-publisher of Out There.

The post Out There’s Holiday Gift Guide appeared first on Out There Venture.

“My passion really lies in telling these stories,” he says. GeoKidz kits include a mix of beautiful rocks and gemstones, experiments, geology tools and educational materials that describe how the rock specimens were formed.

“When our son was three years old,” says Justin, “we bought him a backyard explorer themed kit that was all about bugs. We had so much fun digging up creepy crawly specimens and finding cool rocks along the way! This made us wonder if there were similar geology-themed kits available.”

After not being able to find a quality one, Justin and his wife Melia started putting together their own kits, and GeoKidz was born.

The GeoKidz Adventure Kit was the first one to come out and includes the tools and information you might find in a Geology 101 lab course, says Justin. “It includes everything you need to start identifying rocks and minerals as well as tools to get outside and start exploring.”

Justin and Melia say they love doing science experiments at home with their two kids, ages 5 and 2. “A lot of these experiments find their way into our kits. Sometimes it requires us adding a geology twist to a classic DIY experiment. Some of our other ideas have come from discussions with customers and even seeing what interests kids that come to our events.”

Geology Hot Spots Around the Inland Northwest

The Inland Northwest has plenty of interesting rocks and geologic formations to explore. The Rice family makes annual family geology trips to the Emerald Creek Garnet site near Clarkia, Idaho, for garnets and Red Top Lookout near Ellensburg, Wash., for blue agate.

“We also love camping along the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River. I love the Belt Supergroup rocks that comprise much of the Coeur d’Alene district for the stories they tell of our ancient, almost alien planet,” Justin says.

His kids love finding smooth river rocks with quartz veins cutting through them. “We call them wishing rocks (you make a wish as you skip them across the river), and our kids’ wishes are typically for dad to do something embarrassing.”

Learning About Geology with Your Kids

Justin explains that it’s important to remember geology is the study of the materials as well as the processes that shape our planet. “I like to focus on the processes more with young kids. Kind of a look at the forest instead of the trees approach.”

An easy example, he says, might be describing how the Colorado River carved out the Grand Canyon. “We even model this in our backyard sandbox! We spend hours building landscapes in the sandbox, adding a garden hose, and voila, we have a model to teach about erosion, sediment transport, and deposition.”

Making it easy to teach your kids about geology, the new GeoKidz subscription boxes offer monthly lessons and experiments that take kids through the bigger picture lens of learning how rocks and minerals form to then focusing in on more complex Earth materials and processes.

Justin says the boxes start with a higher level of looking at geology and progressively get more subject focused. “These are perfect, bite-sized, lessons to start learning geology.”

Incorporating Geology into Your Summer Adventures

If you want to plan some family geology outings this summer, the Rice family recommends carrying copies of the Roadside Geology Series books for the places you are already going camping, hiking or biking. “These books provide a great summary of a region’s geology as well as a detailed driving log that points out important geologic features,” adds Justin. Or find some interesting geology hot spots in the books and explore someplace new.

To learn more about GeoKidz’ geology kits and subscription box, visit the GeoKidz website. Find the Rice family’s great geology content on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or TikTok; or subscribe to the free GeoKidz blog for educational experiments for families to do at home delivered to your inbox at Geokidz.wordpress.com.

Originally published as “Geology Made Fun for Kids” in the May-June 2022 issue.

Find more stories about geology in the OTO archives and family adventures in the Outdoor Family column.

The post Geology for Kids appeared first on Out There Venture.

Every year many of the gift recommendations we include in our Local Gift Guide are from Out There Venture advertisers.

Along with you, the readers, they make this publication possible, and we ask you to show your support for Out There by spending some of your holiday shopping dollars with them! // (Derrick Knowles, co-publisher)

Experiences

National Geographic Live! Tickets: Give the gift of immersive storytelling and unforgettable imagery with behind-the-scenes stories straight from National Geographic’s photographers, scientists, filmmakers, and adventurers. Presenters will be live on stage at Spokane’s Fox Theater with iconic National Geographic footage accompanied by a live symphony orchestra. Choose from “The Secret Life of Bears” with Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant, “Untamed” with filmmaker Felipe DeAndrade, “Improbable Ascent” with paraclimber Mo Beck, or a package of all three. Foxtheaterspokane.com.

Wild Walls Climbing Gym Gift Card: You can purchase a gift card from downtown Spokane’s Wild Walls online, which can go toward a month or year membership, a class, or a youth program.

Life Flight Network: This practical gift is the investment in the health and safety of any skiers, hikers, mountain bikers, hunters, or adventuring families. As a member of Life Flight, the member and their family may be transported at no cost when medically necessary due to an emergency by Life Flight Network ($69 per household).

Zip Line Tours: The Inland Northwest has several zip tours that would make a great adventure gift. Try Mica Moon in Liberty Lake, Timberline Adventures in Coeur d’Alene, or Silver Streak Zipline in Wallace.

Kids

Sally Kids Aprons: Little kids love to help in the kitchen, and these child-sized aprons with kid-friendly designs (ages 3-8) will make them feel like a pro and help keep their clothes clean. Find them at the Kitchen Engine in Spokane.

Buck & Bear Trail Blazing Race Game: This two-player game is a perfect gift for traveling kids and families. It’s a crowded trail through the wilderness, and players don’t want to get caught up with the wildlife or get run off the trail! Who will be the first out of the woods? Available at Wonders of the World at the Flour Mill in Spokane.

Kids’ Biking Gloves & Handlebar Bags: Little riders love to accessorize their bike riding too. Spokane’s North Division Bicycle has kids’ biking gloves from Giro, FLY, and Pearl Izumi ($19-25) and kids’ handlebar bags from Electra, Bontrager, and MSW, including options with kid-friendly artwork ($22-28).

The General Store Toys: The entire upper level of The General Store is dedicated to kids’ toys and gear. Find a wide range of toys for several age groups, from Pokemon to Legos, PlayDoh, Barbie and much more at Spokane’s General Store.

JJ’s Canoe Knife Kit: The perfect tool to teach kids about knife safety (ages 7+). Kids get to build their own spring-action wooden pocket knife from the kit (Wonders of the World, Spokane).

Bloc Yard Bouldering Gym Pass: A one-month, three-month, or year membership to north Spokane’s Bloc Yard is a great gift to kids and parents, since parents can choose to climb with their kids or watch them climb rope-free on the many short walls that have climbing pads below them for falls. There are climbing shoes for rent too.

Teen Outdoor Adventures: Sandpoint, Idaho’s Breakwater Expeditions offers three summer trips for teenagers that range in length and activities, from sea kayaking in the San Juan Islands to canoeing and canyoneering in Utah, backpacking in Yellowstone, and canoeing the Missouri River in Montana. All trips are led by experienced guides. Check online for pricing and summer 2022 trip dates.

Unique Gifts

Archie McPhee Glass Ornaments: Add some weird to a loved one’s Christmas tree with these unique glass ornaments, including a meditating Bigfoot, “Creepy Horse Head,” “Lederhosen Unicorn,” an introvert nose-deep in a book, and other strange and funny options (available at The General Store in Spokane).

Puffin Beverage Vest: Koozies are so yesterday. This vest for a cold beverage is practical, but the real joy of giving one is the laughter it will elicit. Pick one up at The General Store.

Great PNW Woodsy Tee: This hilarious, edgy shirt featuring two bears in a compromising pose is already a classic. The design is also available in socks and air fresheners. Available from Thegreatpnw.com ($28.99).

Classic Stanley Lunch Box: Anyone from your aging hipster cousin to grandpa will love this classic metal lunch box. Available at The General Store in Spokane.

Camping

Silky PocketBoy Folding Saw: This 170-mm. compact, lightweight, curved-blade folding saw will come in handy on the trail, at camp, and around home. Available at Outdoor Experience in Sandpoint, Idaho. ($60).

Bedrock Sandals: In an evolution of the adventure sandal, this Missoula, Mont., company builds light, comfortable, and tough sandals that will live up to whatever trails and rivers you throw at them. Get a pair as a gift and another for yourself from Hyperspud Sports in Moscow, Idaho (prices vary).

Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Pillow: Comfort without the bulk. Perfect for travel, short backpacking trips, and camping where a couple extra grams for a great night’s sleep is more than worth it. Pick one up at REI Spokane ($42.95–64.95).

Flyshaker Onesie: Makers of fine flannels, Spokane-based Flyshaker Clothing Company has put their own twist on the traditional union suit. This cotton/poly heathered fleece onesie has a hood, kangaroo pocket, and full-front zipper. It makes for great around-the-house loungewear and camp apparel. Keep warm and deploy the emergency rear zipper when nature calls ($74.95).  

Biking

Tifosi Sledge Lite Glasses: Just because someone doesn’t ride like a badass doesn’t mean they don’t deserve to look like they do. These light, comfortable, high-performance shades from North Division Bicycle will do the trick ($80).

45NRTH Nokken Winter Glove: Keep digits toasty during fall and winter rides without bulky insulation. Soft, grippy, and wind and water resistant. ($65 at Wheel Sport Bicycles in Spokane.)

45NRTH Ragnarok Cycling Shoes: The Achilles heel for many winter riders is actually their feet. These shoes available at Mojo Cyclery, in Spokane Valley, Wash., are designed for cold, wet weather and include hook-and-loop neoprene ankles to keep those pedal pushers dry ($190).

Specialized Angi Crash Sensor: Ever worry about a loved-one’s crazy solo rides? If this sensor, available at Two Wheeler Dealer, in Hayden, Idaho, detects a crash, it starts a countdown so if you get hurt and don’t stop it, it will send an alert to your selected contacts with your last-known GPS coordinates and a message that you need help ($50).

Muc-Off 8-in-1 Bicycle Cleaning Kit: Protect your investment in your bike by keeping it clean with this all-in-one kit from Spokane’s Wheel Sport ($74.99).

Otso Carbon Voytek Fat Bike: Just in time for fat bike season, Mountain View Cyclery, in Hayden, Idaho, has Otso Voytek fat bikes in stock that simulate the pedaling style of a normal mountain bike, helping to eliminate that “ski-style” pedaling and allowing better traction in the deep snow. 

Saris Fluid Road Bike Trainer: Train for spring rides or just stay sane this winter getting some exercise while binge watching your favorite show ($329.99 at The Bike Hub – three locations in the Spokane area).

Salsa Beargrease Carbon Deore 11 Fat Bike: Don’t miss another year of winter snow riding. The one bike for all seasons with race-bike technology and fat-tire-bike capability. Available at Wheel Sport ($2,699).

Dynaplug Micro Pro Tubeless Tire Repair Kit: This light and compact tubeless tire repair kit comes with everything you need to fix a flat on a tubeless tire quick and easy ($54.99 at Spokane’s The Bike Hub).

Specialized Tactic 4 Helmet: Exceptional coverage and seamless integration with goggles or glasses. “The best helmet we’ve ever seen at this price,” say the bike junkies at Wheel Sport ($110).

Park Tool Corkscrew & Bottle Opener: Who doesn’t need an adult beverage while fixing bikes? Slip one of these quality-made openers from North Division Bicycle in a stocking or wrap it up with a bottle of local wine as a bribe for future free bike maintenance ($50).

Garmin Varia RTL515 Rearview Radar with Taillight: Stay aware of approaching cars with rearview radar. It pairs with your Edge bike computer or compatible smartphone to alert you of vehicles approaching from behind up to 153 yards away. (Wheel Sport, $199.)

Niterider Lumina MAX 2500 Headlight: Shorter winter days don’t need to mean shorter rides with this versatile, feature-rich, rechargeable headlight. All bike lights will be 20% off at North Division Bicycle this holiday shopping season too ($250).

45NRTH Naughtvind Winter Cycling Bib: Riders who know that biking season never ends will thank you to the moon and back for a pair of these cold-weather-destroying thermal riding bibs from Mojo Cyclery ($245).

New Custom Bike Wheels: New wheels are the best upgrade you can make to your bicycle. Spokane’s Matthew Larsen Wheelbuilding hand-builds and ships wheels for all types of bikes right here in the Inland NW. All wheels are made to order (prices vary).

Specialized New Tactic Mountain Bike Helmet: With an unprecedented combination of fit, ventilation, and protection for trail and enduro riding, the Tactic helmet available at Two Wheeler Dealer in Hayden provides exceptional coverage and seamless integration with goggles or glasses ($110).

45NRTH Nokken Cycling Gloves: A great combination of warmth, water resistance, and full-finger movement on brisk rides. Available at Mojo Cyclery ($65).

Aventon E-bike: E-bikes sold like hotcakes during the pandemic and continue to do so. Mountain View Cyclery in Hayden has Aventon electric-assist bikes in stock starting at $1,299, an affordable option for putting an e-bike under the tree this year.

Locally-owned bike shops provide personalized customer service and expert advice.

Boating & Watersports

NRS Outfitter Dry Bag: These magical bags from NRS (Northwest River Supplies) are available at the NRS Flagship Store in Moscow, Idaho, keep camp gear, bedding, or clothes dry while rafting, paddling, or boating. Choose from 65-, 110-, or 140-liter sizes ($94.95–$114.95; (shop in-person or online).

Hyperlite HO Admiral Inflatable Paddleboard: These paddleboards are durable and stable and come in at 11′ tall, 3′ wide, and 6″ thick. The extra width and thickness help stabilize the board in choppy waters or with more riders on board. Available at Spokane Alpine Haus ($499).

Carefree Boat Club: The Carefree Boat Club of North Idaho offers members unlimited access to a variety of quality boats. With 95+ locations, members can visit and enjoy boats nationwide too. A great gift for the whole family. Details at Cdasports.com/club-membership-packages or call 208-620-9050. 

NRS Women’s H2Core Rashguard: This long-sleeved rash guard from NRS has a silky feel that wicks away moisture and protects skin from the sun. Perfect for all watersports when a little extra warmth or sun protection are needed ($49.95).

Support your community! Shop for outdoor gear and recreation apparel at local gear shops and other small busineses.

Hiking | Running | Fitness

Tri River Walking Sticks: These made-in-the-U.S.A. wood walking sticks have character and function. These walking sticks are natural wood, finished with a leather strap and rubber tip (Wonders of the World, Spokane).

Arcade Adventure Belts: Arcade belts are light, functional, comfortable, and have a flexibility that moves with you, making them perfect for keeping your pants in place during all kinds of outdoor sports. Super cool designs, too ($26-40 at Shred Sports).

Kavu Hillrose Sweater: A relaxed-fit, acrylic and cotton sweater with some pretty sweet colors and designs. Pick one up at Outdoor Experience in Sandpoint, Idaho ($70).

Nathan Streak Reflective Vest: Lightweight and comfortable, this vest stands out in low light to keep the runner on your holiday list safe on fall and winter runs. Pick one up at Fleet Feet Spokane ($27).

Longleaf Wilderness Medicine Remote Field Care Guide: Local author Jason Luthy created this excellent resource for anyone who might find themselves in a position to provide first aid when resources are limited and help is delayed. Pick up a copy at Outdoor Experience in Sandpoint ($24.95)

686 Everywhere Pant: A do-it-all, 10-pocket pant that can take you from a work meeting to the hiking trail in comfort and style. The breathable, stretchy fabric has a water- and stain-resistant finish. A great gift for travelers ($94.99 at Shred Sports).

Rollerblade Zetrablade Inline Skates: These entry-level, recreational men’s skates feature great support, comfort, and stability at an excellent price. Available at Fitness Fanatics in Spokane Valley ($99).

Theragun Percussive Therapy Device: These smart, percussive therapy devices from Shred Sports provide deep muscle treatment tailored to your body’s needs and help reduce tension and soreness from athletic pursuits and everyday life ($199-399).

Brooks Canopy Running Jacket: A breathable and durable jacket that traps in heat and wicks moisture. Reflective elements and zippered pockets make it a great go-to winter running layer. Available at Fleet Feet Spokane ($120).

Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System: Any hiker will appreciate the unrivaled traction on icy winter trails. Some of the easiest traction devices to use with almost any shoes, and they are strong and compact enough to fit in your pocket. Find them at REI Spokane ($69.95).

CEP Compression Socks: With a range of height options, these compression socks from Fleet Feet Spokane are designed to reduce swelling and muscle strain while you run and recover (prices vary).

Shop for camping and recreation supplies and apparel at local gear shops.

Snow Sports

Skiing/Snowboarding Gift Card: Winter is long in the Inland Northwest, and giving someone a gift card for lift tickets or a season pass can make it the best season of the year. Check your local resort of choice for any Christmas gift lift ticket deals and put a little stoke under the tree for someone this year.

Kinco 901T Mitt: Pick up a pair of these lined, heavy-duty suede pigskin mitts at Spokane’s Rambleraven Gear Trader for skiing, snowshoeing, or just shoveling the driveway. Includes Nikwax waterproofing that comes with them ($36.99).

Hestra Army Leather Patrol Gauntlet Gloves: Warm, versatile, and durable, these classic ski gloves stand up to professionals who use them day in and day out in demanding situations. Perfect for riding lifts or the backcountry, these gloves have been a top seller at Spokane Alpine Haus for years ($160).

Retrospec Zephyr Ski & Snowboard Helmets: Great head protection and comfort at an affordable price at Rambleraven Gear Trader ($44.99).

Beginner Cross-country Ski Package: Cross-country skiing is a great way to enjoy nature in the winter and get plenty of exercise. A full package with everything needed to start skiing is only $335 for adults and $259 for kids at Fitness Fanatics in Spokane Valley.  

Blenders Aura Snow Goggle: Everything a skier or snowboarder will want from a pair of goggles, plus some pretty sick, psychedelic styles. Rambleraven Gear Trader carries all styles and colors of Blenders goggles and helmets.

Kari Traa Base Layers: Technical base layer built for women by women with prints and patterns that will stand out on the mountain. These tops and bottoms will keep the wearer dry and comfortable thanks to 100% merino wool. Find them at Spokane Alpine Haus ($100-$110).

Union Rover Approach Skis: Tired of crowded resorts and long lines? Explore your local hills, backcountry, or resort sidecountry, all while enjoying the rideability of your favorite snowboard in your quiver. The Union Rover Approach Skis work in perfect harmony with the Union Explorer bindings, and easily swaps onto your regular snowboard in seconds so you can enjoy the ride down. Sold at Shred Sports ($399).

Altai Skis Tiak Pole: If you know someone who has a pair of Curlew, Wash., based Altai Skis Hoks, they need one of Altai’s Tiak poles to try this ancient but incredibly functional and intuitive style of skiing with one pole. Available from Altai Skis online ($41.75).

Tubbs Wayfinder Snowshoes: A best-selling snowshoe with plenty of modern technology incorporated into a classic snow-walking tool. Anyone who can walk can snowshoe. Help someone on your Christmas list be more active this winter. Available at Rambleraven Gear Trader ($189.99).

Smith 4D Mag Goggle: Smith’s new 4D lens technology offers one of the widest field of views in a goggle. Anyone who has struggled seeing the terrain in harsh conditions knows how important a good pair of goggles can be. Included with this goggle available at Spokane Alpine Haus is a second lens to help cover all spectrums of light that might be encountered, as well as a hard case and cloth to protect your investment ($320).

Faststik Ski/Snowboard Wax Alternative:
What shredder wouldn’t be stoked to find Faststik in their stocking? This microfilm polymer blend is designed to deliver superior performance at temps from -10 to 32 F. The light and portable easy-to-apply Faststik handles it all like a pro with none of the hassle and fuss of traditional ski and snowboard waxes. Pick some up at Shred Sports for $40.  

Support OTO advertisers: shop at their stores, and tell them thanks for advertising in the magazine.

Pets

Dog Line Stoneware Mug: Dog lovers will howl over one of these mugs by Fringe Studio with dog decal art from Prairie Dog Pet Mercantile ($18.99). Pair it with some PNW-inspired tea from Winterwoods Tea also available at Prairie Dog ($14.99). 

Puppy Paws Pet CBD Oil: There are so many benefits to giving your dog CBD. From helping with joint pain to anxiety relief, aging pups will feel younger and have more energy. This pet-approved CBD tincture made with hemp extract, olive oil, and coconut oil is made in the Inland NW by Bath By Bex. Order online at Bathbybex.com ($34.99 for 500 mg or $59.99 for 1,000 mg).

Cat Ball Bed: These spherical beds available at Prairie Dog Pet Mercantile allow cats to feel safe and cozy while relaxing and come in a variety of cool patterns and colors. As they say, your cat will figure it out ($61.99).

NOBO Dog Leash: NOBO leashes, assembled and packaged in Spokane, incorporate a built-in bag dispenser into the handle, are made with climbing rope, and have a quick-release handle loop for easy dog anchoring when you need your hands. ($59.99, Nobopets.com.)

Whimsies Pet-Inspired Metal Art: Prairie Dog Pet Mercantile caries a variety of pet, animal, and nature ornaments and decorations to help you celebrate your four-legged best friends ($12.99-32.99).

Bocce’s Bakery Dog Treats: Bocce’s makes some delicious-sounding dog treats in a variety of sizes and flavors, including some new holiday ones: Figgy Pudding, Holiday Feast, and Santa’s Smores. $9.99 at Prairie Dog Pet Mercantile.

Shop for pet gear and gifts for pet-lovers at a small, locally-owned pet shop.

Health & Beauty

Peaches and Cream MEGA CBD Bath Bomb: These peaches-and-cream bath bombs are fun and relaxing. Whoever you buy them for will enjoy the aroma of fresh peach and vanilla essential oils as they soak in the CBD and relax their worries away. Available for $15 from Bath by Bex online or at the new retail store in Spokane.

Color Street Nail Polish Strips: A salon-quality manicure with no heat, no tools, and no dry time. Long-lasting Color Street nail polish strips are the perfect stocking stuffer or gift idea. These strips are made from 100% real nail polish with base coat, color, and top coat all in one. Easy, one-step application; nail file included. (Prices vary, Linktr.ee/PNWnailDesign).

Apex Terpene-Enhanced CBD Tincture: Apex Cannabis CBD tinctures include terpene-enhanced options that have the terpenes from favorite cannabis strains and all of the benefits of CBD but without the psychoactive effects. Also available in “raw” plain CBD ($24.99-399.99 based on dosing).

Holiday Stocking CBD Bath & Body Gift Set: Every year for the holidays Bath by Bex puts together some favorite seasonal CBD bath and body treats in one amazing set. This gift set includes best-selling CBD products in a fun seasonal set with the stocking included. Available online or from the new Bath by Bex retail store in Spokane for $110.

Food & Drink

Moccamaster Coffee Brewers: These brewers available from DOMA Coffee Roasting Company make amazing coffee with brewing backed by science. But they have another major selling point—they’re modular, which means if something breaks it can easily be replaced, equaling less trash in landfills. A Moccamaster tagline is “built to last a lifetime,” and they mean it. Available at DOMA headquarters in Post Falls, Idaho.

Dry Fly Huckleberry Vodka: Add the Idaho state fruit to Dry Fly Distilling’s award-winning vodka and you get a delicious, high-quality gift that can be enjoyed in various creative cocktails. Buy a bottle for yourself and another as a gift from the new Dry Fly Distilling tasting room and gift shop downtown Spokane.

Side Hustle Syrups: Natural and flavorful syrups for making cocktails, sodas, or flavored tea or coffee. Manufactured in small batches in Spokane and available in a range of flavors at The Kitchen Engine.

Baratza Grinders: DOMA Coffee Roasting Company carries several models of these award-winning, high-quality grinders that can handle all styles of brewing, from French press to espresso. Available at DOMA headquarters in Post Falls ($170-560).

Lyte Balance Electrolyte Concentrate: A tasteless, calorie-free, additive-free electrolyte concentrate, Liberty Lake-based Lyte Balance can be added to any beverage and is a game-changer for anyone who struggles with maintaining proper hydration, from athletes and middle-aged weekend warriors to retirees who don’t drink enough water. Give the gift of health and hydration. Available at many regional natural food stores and online (16-oz. bottle, $25).

Local, Healthy Food from LINC Foods: Want to give someone you love a nudge toward healthier eating? Give them a gift certificate to LINC Market, where they can shop from over 60 small, Inland Northwest farms. You can also give one of the popular LINC Box subscriptions that comes with local, seasonal produce and other foods by signing up the gift recipient like normal on LINC’s website and then emailing lincbox@lincfoods.com to prepay.

Eat and drink locally. Buy kitchen and housewares at a local small business.

Art & Home

Paperless Paper Towels: A gift for your loved ones and the planet. These absorbent, washable, 100% cotton flannel paper towels are hand-made in Spokane and will brighten any kitchen with their beautiful patterns. More importantly, they will replace disposable, plastic-packaged towels that often come from virgin forests. Each set comes with 6 ($18) or 12 ($32) towels that naturally stick together. Order online at Spokane-Made.com.

The Original GreenPan Frypan Set: GreenPan is the pioneer of healthy ceramic non-stick cookware that doesn’t contain any toxic chemicals or persistent pollutants. This set from The Kitchen Engine includes 10- and 12-inch frypans ($99.99).

Re-usable Produce Bags: Anyone trying to limit their impact on the planet (or cost at the grocery store) will appreciate one or more of these locally-made, reusable produce bags. Produce can be washed and stored in the bags in the fridge. Bags are machine washable and can be dried on low. Pick up a couple at The Kitchen Engine near Riverfront Park in Spokane ($12.99).

Bicycle Pizza Cutter: Created by metalworkers in Moradabad, India, this fair-trade stainless-steel pizza cutter is the perfect gift for a cyclist, pizza lover, or both. Available at Kizuri, located in downtown Spokane.

Prep Works Fresh Guacamole Keeper: The press-fit lid on this container keeps precious guac from turning brown. Available at the Kitchen Engine in Spokane.

Tree of Life Breadwarmer: Fair trade and made in Bangladesh, these bread warmers will keep loaves toast at the table. The whitewashed terracotta stone is etched with the “tree of life” and sits within a handwoven kaisa grass basket. Kizuri, downtown Spokane ($29.50).

Soul Flower Mushroom Design Recycled Notebook: From nature lovers and mushroom hunters to writers and journal keepers, all will love one of these useful and beautiful notebooks ($14.99 at Wonders of the World).

Crystal Pendants: Hundreds of pendants to choose from, including options from local artists or pieces from around the world. Pendants range from gemstone, semi-precious, and varietal rocks and minerals with some in copper, silver, and sterling silver ($19 at My Crystal Stop in Mead, Wash., north of Spokane).

Over the Rainbow Woodstock Windchime: This beautiful windchime is tuned to the opening notes of the ballad of the same name. This chime was designed with a removable windcatcher that can be taken to a trophy shop, printer, or jeweler to be engraved or silk-screened. Find them at Spokane’s Wonders of the World.

Spokaloo Inland NW-Inspired Art & Maps: Illustrated maps of your favorite places around the region, from lakes to ski resorts, golf courses, neighborhoods, and more. Available online at Spokaloo.net, with custom maps upon request.

Crystal Mystery Box: Let the universe decide your gift with this crystal-inspired mystery box. All mystery boxes are some combination of rocks, crystals, minerals, and other cool, cosmic stuff. If the person on your gift list loves rocks and crystals, you can’t go wrong. (Starting at $10 at My Crystal Stop in north Spokane.)

The Northwest is home to many amazing artists. Support artisans, makers, and creators — shop locally!

Books

The Great Glorious Goddamn of It All – A Novel: From singer-songwriter Josh Ritter comes a lyrical, sweeping novel about a young boy’s coming-of-age during the last days of the lumberjacks (Auntie’s Bookstore, $27.99).

Evergreen – Grim Tales and Verses from the Gloomy Northwest: Local publisher Scablands Books released this anthology this fall. Edited by Sharma Shields and Maya Jewell Zeller, 56 Northwest writers share their singular stories, essays, and poems that center on what Shields calls “the literature of despair.” Pick up a copy at Atticus Coffee & Gifts downtown Spokane ($24.99).

Rise and Roar – A Guided Journal for Outdoor Adventure: This book by author Sharisse Steber meets women where they are in life and challenges and inspires them to get outside, define their motivations, and examine their fears (Auntie’s Bookstore, $19.99).

Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law: New York Times best-selling author Mary Roach explores the curious science of human-wildlife conflict, a discipline at the crossroads of human behavior and wildlife biology. Roach’s signature witty humor brings a light voice to complex topics, making this an interesting and enjoyable read. Available at Auntie’s Bookstore, downtown Spokane and online ($26.99).

Evergreen: Grim Tales & Verses From the Gloomy Northwest –– published by Scablands Books, based in Spokane, featuring authors from Spokane and all around the greater Northwest. Support your local independent bookstore.

Find more gift and gear ideas and recommendations in the OTO holiday gift guide archives.

The post Inland NW Local Holiday Gift Guide – 2021 appeared first on Out There Venture.

Here are a couple that are delivering fresh produce and good foods that might not pass the perfection-purity test required to make it to a typical grocery store shelf.

Misfits Market and Imperfect Foods existed before 2020. Their goal has always been to get food typically wasted on the shelf or in the field, either due to excess, esthetics, or other issues, into the hands of those who need or want it.

Order online within a specified timeframe, choose a box for your family size, select your products, and your groceries are delivered each week.

Misfits focuses primarily on produce, offers only organic and non-GMO products, and ships with eco-friendly packaging. They offer weekly and bi-weekly subscriptions and make it easy to change when needed. Add-on foods include packaged dry foods, condiments, fresh herbs, and limited seasonal produce for additional costs. You set the delivery day and order Friday-Monday.

Imperfect Foods is more customizable, especially if you’re looking for more than produce. They cater to a variety of dietary needs, and their add-ons include dairy, meat, fish, canned and dry foods, snacks, frozen foods, and even pet treats. You have a narrower ordering window and Imperfect chooses your delivery day, but you can pause and change your subscription at any time.

For recommendations and reviews of other subscription box services as well as Provision food and drink articles, visit the OTO archives.

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Last spring in the midst of the pandemic lockdown, LINC launched a new way to connect people with locally-produced food. The LINC Market is an online grocery shopping service with a focus on a wide range of local, sustainable foods. Shoppers can then pick up their orders at one of several locations around the Spokane area.

New this year, to the cheers of Inland Northwest craft beer lovers, LINC is adding a Brewery Box, a curated local craft beer subscription. While the details were still being worked out as of late February, LINC crop promotions director Michelle Youngblom already had an excellent line-up of participating brewers: Single Hill Brewing, The Grain Shed, YaYa Brewing, Lumberbeard Brewing, Paramour Brewing, Whistle Punk, and potentially Big Barn Brewing and Paradise Creek.

“The Brewery Box will be offered solo as a Brewer’s Selection Variety, as well as an add-on to the LINC Box,” says Youngblom. LINC is also hoping to add local brews to the offerings available for online purchase through the LINC Market this spring. LINC is also planning to expand its pickup locations this year and possibly add home delivery options for both the LINC Box and Brewery Box.

Learn more about LINC Foods in this story from our June 2020 issue.

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1. Pocketknife: A versatile tool for a responsible, outdoorsy kid. My son received a small Leatherman for his ninth birthday, and it’s one of his most prized possessions. He takes it along camping, stows it in his fly-fishing bag, and keeps it handy in his bedroom for all types of tool needs. Be sure your kid knows safe knife-handling skills. 

2. Compass: Whether used for geocaching or trail wayfinding, compass navigation skills are essential for correctly reading technical trail maps and safely exploring the backcountry. 

3. Rain pants: When it’s too cold, rainy, or windy for regular pants, but not cold enough for snow pants, that’s when rain pants come in handy. Kids can play outside longer when they are dry and comfortable. Whether worn for hiking, biking through puddles, or backyard playtime, rain pants protect underlayers from becoming a muddy mess and are easy to clean.

4. Non-fiction books: Stories or memoirs about epic survival experiences or amazing adventure achievements can be both instructional and inspirational. A great book can spark stimulating, in-depth conversations between adults and kids and lead to a daughter or son’s goal setting and deeper self-awareness. Find title ideas by visiting your local bookstore, or check out the Mountaineers Books online list.

5. Kiwi Co. or Nomadik subscription box: Kiwi Co. offers a variety of age-targeted, hands on science and art project boxes for kids, from babies to ages 16+, that teach STEM and other skills. One popular example is the science and engineering-oriented Tinker Crate (for ages 9-16+). A Nomadik subscription box, for tweens and teens, provides new, small gear items for future outdoor adventures.

6. Monthly gym pass or classes for climbing, parkour, gymnastics, or trampolining: Motivate kids to stay active during winter with a safe, indoor environment to burn off energy after school, learn a new sport or activity, and get out of the house on weekends—especially if kids aren’t involved in alpine or organized sports. Most businesses have open gym hours or offer daily passes, in addition to monthly or family memberships or multi-visit passes. 

7. Ski/snowboard or ice-skating lessons, season passes, or lift ticket packages: The more days and hours that kids ski, snowboard, or skate, the better they get. It makes an even better gift experience if that cool aunt or uncle takes the kid to the mountain and skis with them.  

8. Snowshoes: Kids can stomp around in the deep snow right outside their front door, around a local park, or venture on a hiking trail when they have youth-sized snowshoes. Snowshoeing is an inexpensive, accessible, all-family sport.

9. Boot & glove dryer: More a gift for the whole family, this useful item is an underestimated home essential for any sporty family. Use it for all kinds of gloves, athletic shoes, boots, and hockey or ice skates. Some models include attachments for drying helmets. 

10. LED headlamp: Hands-free lighting promotes independence and is fun to use. This versatile year-round item can be used while night skiing or snowboarding (worn over the helmet, more to be seen by others on the slopes), camping, and more. Find one that has high, low, and night-vision settings. 

The post Gear to Get Kids Outside in Winter appeared first on Out There Venture.

Meal Delivery: I tried a couple online mail subscriptions and was impressed by the quality of ingredients, ease of ordering, and inclusion of eco-friendly packaging. Popular companies like Hello Fresh and Martha Stewart’s Plated deliver fresh ingredients in cold packaging, which must be immediately refrigerated. They also include detailed instructions on preparing your meal and offer a variety of gluten-free, vegetarian, and other diet-friendly choices. The meals I tested were quite tasty, but portions were a little small for us. Of the top-rated services in the U.S., Sun Basket caters to the most food allergies and diets, Veestro is 100% plant-based, Blue Apron offers the best pricing ($7.49/serving), and ButcherBox delivers grass-fed meats. Stay Idaho local with Family Dinners or vegan salads delivered by Lucid Roots with Dani Lundquist in Coeur d’Alene. Follow this company on Facebook or Instagram for menus and ordering instructions. Give a subscription to the cook in your own kitchen or buy a gift card for a set number of meals for friends.

Snack Boxes: Snacks are great stocking stuffers, and companies like Urthbox, Nature Box, and Graze make healthy snacking easy and adventurous. Like meals, these online delivery services are usually subscriptions. They can seem a little sparse (sample sized packages or limited selection), but they often supplement with coupons and online codes for additional snack foods. PaleoPax specializes in paleo-friendly snacking. Daily Harvest serves smoothies, harvest bowls, and lattes.

Something Special: Whether it’s a monthly bottle of wine through Winc, cocktail inspiration with Flaviar Whiskey Club, or a craft coffee discovery with Angel’s Cup, it’s easy to go online and gift something truly special to that exceptional person in your life. Surprise your partner with a date night from Datebox or create your own food gift with local products like Savor Tooth paleo pizza crust, a mini apple pie from Bean & Pie, or Apple Cider Syrup from Athol Orchards. //

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Figuring out what, when and where to plant can be an intimidating task. Two helpful resources in the Spokane area are the Spokane County Library and the Spokane Master Gardeners. Each spring the Spokane County library and the Master Gardeners team up to offer classes on everything from container gardening and preserving the harvest to keeping out those pesky deer.

Check out a seed library. In 2015, the Otis Orchards Library branch started a program where patrons can borrow a variety of lendable seeds. Library cardholders check out a packet of seeds on the condition that they return new seeds from those plants the following year. The program was such a success that new seed libraries are being established at the branches in Deer Park and Medical Lake. In conjunction with the new seed libraries, the Master Gardeners offers a series of how-to classes. For more information, visit the Spokane County Library District website: Scld.org/take-and-give-seed-library-2016

Think vertically. If you have the space, raised beds are an efficient option. They make weeding and planting easier while maintaining soil temperature. Many gardeners use wooden boards to create a box for planting, but you can also use rocks, sand bags, bricks or cinder clocks. Pallet gardens are growing in popularity, but beware that while some pallets are heat-treated, others are fumigated with methyl bromide to prevent insects. Make sure that the materials you use do not contain chemicals you don’t want in your food.

Get creative. Even the smallest patch of ground (10 inches by 3 or 4 feet) paired with a sturdy trellis or ladder-like frame can be productive for plants like cucumbers, snap peas, pole beans, squash, pumpkins and tomatoes. Pieces of rain gutter (with ends) attached to a wooden board can be secured to a wall to create vertical plant boxes that are great for strawberries, herbs and lettuce. Stacking pots, with larger ones holding smaller ones in the middle, ziggurat-style, can create an attractive tower for edibles like nasturtiums, thyme, oregano and chives.

The most important thing is to get creative, get planting, and learn more from people who are passionate about gardening. With microclimates that can vary from house to house, it’s important to observe the light in your planting space and experiment. Play with it, have fun and enjoy the harvest! // (Crystal Atamian)

Eat the Best Vegetables Your Dollars Can Buy with a CSA Box

Now is the time to sign up for community-supported agriculture, or CSA. Patronizing a CSA farm is a fantastic way to connect with one of our amazing local farmers. Signing up for a CSA is an easy subscription process. Upfront, you pay a farmer to grow all your veggies for the season (typically May through September) and you get a beautiful box of produce each week.

CSA farms may vary slightly on weekly volume and price but are generally comparable. If the upfront cost seems expensive, calculate the cost each week and compare that to what you spend at the grocery store. The difference in quality between farm-grown or store-bought produce will blow your mind.

Some CSAs require you to pick up your veggies at their farms, while others have drop-off locations or other delivery options. Personally, I love to pick up veggies at the farm. A quick walk on the farm and a chat with growers are such pleasures. If you have kids, it can be a fun family trip too. If you are worried about missing pick-ups due to vacations, talk with your farmer and learn about their policy, or connect with a friend or neighbor to collect your produce when you are away.

Which farm should you choose? I am always amazed at the number of small farms that encircle Spokane County. Inquire at your favorite farmers’ market or check out the list of farms on the Spokane LINC Foods website at www.Lincfoods.com/linc-farmers. There is great value in the commitment to supporting local growers, but even greater is the value in feeding yourself and your family incredible produce. // (Beth Mort)

The post No Space, No Problem: Starting an Urban Garden appeared first on Out There Venture.

We split a box here at the OTM office, which means there are often items targeted towards men and women, which is cool for couples, but we still end up bartering over the rest of the box’s surprises. A Cairn subscription would make an awesome Christmas gift for any serious outdoors person, especially gearheads who like to keep up on the latest and greatest innovations in the industry. Here’s a glimpse into a couple of our most recent boxes: Joshua Tree Winter Stick SPF 15, Gear Aid “Tenacious Tape” cool graphic gear patch “tattoos,” Green Goo Deet-free bug spray, a KLYMIT PillowX mini-inflatable pillow that rolls up to the size of a lighter, Mountain House freeze-dried ice cream, and more. Order a gift subscription (and maybe one for yourself) at Getcairn.com.

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