Our annual trip to the Carmel Christkindlmarket didn’t go as planned this year — but the detour reminded us what family traditions are really made of.
Chris Marts 
Worst Purchase of 2025
While shopping at Sam’s Club today, we wandered past the washers and dryers. I paused, looked at one of the models, noted the price, and said out loud, “I wish we bought this instead.” And just like that, our worst purchase of 2025 came rushing back.
Not Dieting, Going Mediterranean
In our long quest to lose weight and be healthier, Cherokee and I have tried some different diet approaches.
Cherokee Marts Beef and Barley Soup
Somehow I had never tried barley before making this soup. Now I’m a believer (cue the music!).