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“Give Back” Referral Rewards February 2026

Sound Generations’ Meals on Wheels program provides well-balanced, nutritious, ready-to-eat meals each week, offering essential support to older adults and their caregivers. With home delivery and specialized options like vegetarian and kosher meals, our program provides seniors with a reliable, convenient way to maintain their independence and enjoy a healthy diet.

You can support our charity by volunteering with them, donating directly, or referring a friend or family member for a free, no-obligation insurance quote.

Thank you for your referrals. They mean a lot to us!

February 20, 2026
Stinky’s Riddles February 2026

I have keys but no locks.
I have a space but no room.
You can enter, but you can’t go outside.
What am I?

February 20, 2026
Umami: The “Delicious” Taste You’ve Been Missing (and Why It Matters)

So… what exactly is umami?

Umami is often described as brothy, meaty, or deeply savory. It was identified in 1908 by Japanese chemist Kikunae Ikeda, who linked the sensation to glutamate, an amino acid naturally found in many protein-rich foods.

Unlike salt or sugar, umami doesn’t hit you with a quick “punch.” It tends to linger, making your mouth water and leaving a long, satisfying finish. (Think: that “one more bite” feeling.)

February 20, 2026
Ketchup! The Classic King of Condiments

The shift to modern ketchup started in the United States. In 1812, James Mease created the first tomato-based recipe. Interestingly, H.J. Heinz began selling “Tomato Catsup” in 1876, using that spelling to distinguish their product in a crowded market. As commercial production grew, Henry J. Heinz, with his 1876 product, relied on chemical preservatives such as formalin (aka formaldehyde, uh gross!) and coal tar to maintain color and freshness..

Worcestershire sauce is another modern, Western relative of kê-tsiap. Both derive profound umami from fermented fish (anchovies) and aging, offering a similar pungent, savory profile. Developed in Britain, it was inspired by the savory umami profile of Asian fish sauce.

February 11, 2026
Recipe for Ham Stock

January 29, 2026
WWII Navy Bean Soup

he small, white, and economical Pea Bean or Haricot provided a very filling, and nutritious protein during times of food rationing. Over time the pea beans also came to be widely known as Navy Beans because they were such a staple in the U.S. Naval diet during the second half of the 19th Century. The Navy’s original soup was called Bean Soup and this soup was served regularly to Navy members during World War II. Their original recipe called for the use of ham stock instead of chicken broth. A recipe for Ham Stock is included below.

January 29, 2026
Umbrella Insurance: How Extra Liability Coverage Protects Your Future

One unexpected lawsuit can put your savings and future income at risk. Most people understand car insurance and homeowners insurance, but fewer know about umbrella insurance—an extra layer of liability coverage that can help protect you if you’re responsible for a serious accident or injury. Umbrella coverage is designed to kick in when the liability […]

January 29, 2026
Stinky’s Riddles January 2026

Are You Smarter than Stinky? How is seven different from the rest of the numbers between one and ten? Please email your answers to Stinky by February 6th. If you are correct, you will be entered into a drawing for a $10 Starbucks gift card. The December Riddle: “I fall without feathers, I cover […]

January 21, 2026
12 Healthy Sleep Hygiene Tips for Better Sleep (Tonight and Long-Term)

ake Your Bedroom a Sleep-First Space

Your environment can either invite sleep or quietly fight it.

Set your room up for success:

Keep it cool: many people sleep best around 65–68°F

Use supportive pillows and a comfortable mattress

Reduce noise (earplugs or white noise)

Block light (blackout curtains or an eye mask)

January 21, 2026
“Give Back” Referral Rewards January 2026

A matching $20 donation was made for each referral, totaling $220 to Vine Maple Place is on a mission to end homelessness for single-parent families in South King County—and the need is urgent, with 400+ calls each month from families looking for help. What makes Vine Maple Place especially impactful is their wraparound, stability-first approach: emergency and rental assistance, move-in support, housing stability planning, employment and budgeting resources, and programming that supports children who have experienced serious stress and disruption.

January 20, 2026