5 People I’d Like to Compliment on National Compliment Day

Posted on January 24, 2016 by lovelakeoswego

complimentIn the spirit of National Compliment Day on January 24, I wanted to hand out some compliments to Lake Oswegans who help make Lake Oswego a great place to live.

●Nancy Nye and her staff and volunteers with the Lake Oswego Arts Council. I think our Gallery Without Walls is one of our city’s defining attributes and the Arts Council has done an excellent job of adding color, texture and topics of conversation throughout our city’s streets.

●Jeff Ward, the Lake Manager at the Lake Oswego Corporation. Jeff and his staff have gone a long way towards improving the water quality in the lake. When my kids were in grammar school, there were a couple Augusts when we’d climb out of the pools at the Lake Grove Swim Park covered in pea soup (aka algae-filled water). Luckily those days seem behind us and we owe that to careful water management.

●The Lake Oswego Parks Maintenance staff who manage to keep our street medians and rights-of-way blooming what seems like year-round. It’s an easy thing to take for granted; but when I pass the roundabout in front of the Hunt Club and see sunflowers paying homage to our summer sun, I am grateful for the folks who planted them there.

●Cyndie Glazer and the Lake Oswego Reads Steering Committee who continually deliver a top-notch community-wide reading event that ties us all together in thought and discussion. Get set to reap the rewards of all their hard work next month with a full lineup of activities.

●The late Bill Gerber and Doug Oliphant as well as Mike Darcy and Bill Warner who spearheaded the Lake Oswego Village Flower Basket program. Seeing those baskets show up in early May with just a few blooms poking over their sides is a harbinger of summer’s bounty in our town.

Anyone you’d like to give a shout-out to? Leave your compliments here.

And if you want to receive weekly updates on 52 Reasons to Love Lake Oswego, click the “Sign me up” button in the top right hand column.  That way you won’t miss a thing.

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5 Reasons to Check out Lake Oswego’s Westridge Neighborhood

Posted on January 17, 2016 by lovelakeoswego

WestridgeJoanne Trask has lived in the Westridge neighborhood in Lake Oswego since 1997, and after talking to her, sounds like she doesn’t plan on moving any time soon. She’s happy there, as are many Westridge homeowners which is why Joanne explains, even when the kids grow up, a lot of people stay put.

A 2014 survey taken by the neighborhood association backs up Joanne’s claim. Of the 70 respondents, the average length of residence was 17 ½ years. Roots run deep here.

So what’s so great about Westridge?

1. The people. When you have that kind of history with a place, you tend to be more invested in making it a good place to live. That friendly atmosphere is tops on Joanne’s list of amenities. Neighbors pitch in to help keep up the Westridge playground and the neighborhood association is forming a Prep Westridge group to collectively prepare for an earthquake.

2. Natural setting. Trees create a sense of natural space throughout Westridge, and often Joanne feels like she’s walking around in a forest. “In most places the houses are subordinate to the trees,” she explains. Winding roads and pathways create an ambiance that makes you feel like somehow you’ve gotten away from it all, when actually you’re right at home.

3. Schools. Westridge is part of the award winning Lake Oswego School District with children attending Westridge Elementary, Lakeridge Junior High and Lakeridge High Schools.

4. Hills. “If you’re trying to stay in shape, this is a great place to live,” Joanne explains, with all kinds of inclines to keep your walks challenging. That’s an aspect to the neighborhood that has surprised her—how much she enjoys just getting outside and taking a hike (and that natural setting with all those trees makes it even more enjoyable). Perhaps because of the hilly terrain, there is little traffic, making the streets more pedestrian-friendly and quiet. And when it comes to snow days…there are lots of choices for sledding and if you’re like Joanne, skiing.

5. Location. Located on the southern side of Oswego Lake, Westridge offers convenient access to shopping both in the Lake Grove district as well as downtown Lake Oswego. It’s within walking distance of two parks—Westridge, located adjacent to Westridge Elementary School with a playground and soccer/softball fields, and Cooks Butte that covers 42 acres and offers soft surface trails and beautiful views. Trailheads are at Delenka Lane, Palisades Crest Drive, Westview Drive and Shipley Drive.

If you’re interested in exploring the Westridge neighborhood, please give me a call. I currently do have two houses listed that I’d be happy to show you.

This 5 bedroom 3.1 bath traditional home at 14 Dover Way is listed at $1,175,000.

This 5 bedroom 3.1 bath traditional home at 14 Dover Way is listed at $1,175,000.

Be close to Cooks Butte in this 4 bedroom, 3 bath home at 18217 Delenka Lane for $769,900.

Be close to Cooks Butte in this 4 bedroom, 3 bath home at 18217 Delenka Lane for $769,900.

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Lake Oswego Reads Kicks Off With Book Giveaway Tomorrow

Posted on January 10, 2016 by lovelakeoswego

LO ReadsThis year’s Lake Oswego Reads program features the first non-fiction selection: Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher: The Epic Life and Immortal Photographs of Edward S. Curtis by Timothy Egan. Curtis is credited by some with “the greatest photographic achievement in American history” as he compiled 40,000 photographs of Native Americans over a 30 year period at the turn of the twentieth century.

The subject matter lends itself to ambitious programming on many counts. Not only are there more than 35 events planned but the events themselves offer a myriad of lenses through which to view both the author’s accomplishment and the subject he studied: historical, culinary, artistic, cultural, anthropological, horticultural, scientific and philosophical. So be prepared to be enlightened, challenged, and yes, fed as you explore the lengths to which Curtis had to go to finish his work as told by a respected and award-winning chronicler of the West.

Here are a few of Lake Oswego Reads highlights:

Kickoff and Book Giveaway. The Lake Oswego Library wants you to be part of the discussion so come get your free copy of Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher: The Epic Life and Immortal Photographs of Edward S. Curtis. Enjoy soup shots and a demonstration of Ranvenstail weaving. Monday, January 11, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Lake Oswego Public Library, 706 Fourth Street. 503.675.2538.

Ticket Giveaway to Hear Author Timothy Egan. The award-winning author will be speaking at the Lake Oswego High School Auditorium on February 10 but you’ll need a ticket to get in so start lining up early at the Lake Oswego Library on ticket giveaway day, Saturday, January 23 beginning at 11:00 a.m. You’ll need your library card. Two tickets maximum per person. (Note: Some seats may be available the day of the event; however, there are no guarantees). 706 Fourth Street. 503.675.2538.

Book Discussions held on February 12 from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Chuck’s Place, 148 B Avenue;  February 19 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Lake Oswego Adult Community Center, 505 G Avenue; and February 22 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Lake Oswego Library, 706 Fourth Street. 503.675.2538.

Ceremonial Tribal Food Sampling. Andrew Lintz, a member of the Native American Church, will utilize traditional culinary techniques to introduce you to ceremonial cuisine. Registration required. Friday, February 5 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Nic & Fig’s Makery, 425 2nd. Street, Suite 120.

Art Show Reception and Meet the Artists. See how the book, Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher, inspired local artists. Monday, February 8 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Lakewood Center for the Arts, 368 S. State Street. 503.675.2538.

Edward Curtis and Moral Tragedy. Lewis and Clark Philosophy Professor Dr. Joel Martinez will discuss moral issues raised in Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher. Tuesday, February 9 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Lake Oswego Library, 706 Fourth Street. 503.675.2538.

Timothy Egan: Award Winning Author Presentation. Hear the author discuss his work on Wednesday, February 10 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Lake Oswego High School Auditorium, 2501 Country Club Road. Must have a ticket to be guaranteed a seat. Free tickets will be handed out beginning at 11:00 a.m. on January 23 at the Lake Oswego Library. Those without tickets will be seated at 6:45 p.m., space permitting.

An Anthropologist’s Perspective. Despite his accomplishments, Edward Curtis’ work was not without its critics. Listen as Portland Community College Professor, Dr. William Wihr, discusses the controversy surrounding the photographer. Friday, February 12 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Lake Oswego Adult Community Center, 505 G Avenue. 503.675.2538.

Docent Led Tour at the Portland Art Museum: Contemporary Native Photographers. The major exhibition at the Portland Art Museum pairs many of Curtis’ photographs with those taken by contemporary Native American photographers in an effort to invite you to reflect on how the Native experience has been portrayed through the camera lens. Tuesday, February 16 from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 pm. at the Portland Art Museum, 1219 SW Park Avenue. Admission is $20 if you mention Lake Oswego Reads. RSVP: 503.675.2538.

Lake Oswego Reads Day at OMSI. A five year project in the making at OMSI, “Roots of Wisdom: Native Knowledge, Shared Science” coincides with the theme of Lake Oswego Reads. The exhibit looks at the joint contributions that traditional knowledge and western science have made to resolve ecological and health challenges. Saturday, February 20 at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, 1945 SE Water Avenue, Portland, Oregon. Mention Lake Oswego Reads for an all-day admission price of $7. Special presentation from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. 503.797.4000.

In the Land of the Head Hunters. Add film making to Edward Curtis’ accomplishments. See a restored deluxe edition of his 1914 film on Sunday, February 21 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Lewis and Clark College in the Council Chambers in the Templeton Center, 0615 SW Palatine Hill Rd.

Salmon Bake with Native American Music and Dance. See how it’s done the traditional way with the whole salmon threaded on sticks and cooked vertically over an open fire pit. Friday, February 26 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation, 1500 Greentree Rd. Purchase $10 tickets (children under 6 free) at the Lake Oswego Library or the Parks and Recreation Department. Cash/checks only. Limited space is available so buy your tickets early.

Find a complete listing of all events here.

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5 Things That Could Affect Lake Oswego Home Values in 2016

Posted on January 3, 2016 by lovelakeoswego

5 Things That Could Affect Home ValuesAs a Realtor in Lake Oswego for the past 25 plus years, I’ve seen property values go up by a cumulative 225% increase with an average yearly change of a little over 6%. In that time frame, there have been some dips (like we saw back in 2008), but for the most part, homes in Lake Oswego prove to be a solid investment both financially and personally.

Here are some things to watch for in the upcoming year as they will play a role in home valuation.

●Schools. As I’ve said before, I’ve seen the Lake Oswego School District’s reputation brings as many homebuyers into our town as the lake, the location, or the community. Being honored as the #1 school district in the nation by StartClass, an educational research website last year only helped validate that perception. But our schools are facing challenges, especially with the expected increase in PERS payouts for the 2017-2019 biennium. It’s important to watch school board decisions regarding how the district is going to manage those costs, offer input and say “YES!” when the Lake Oswego School District Foundation comes calling.

●Interest rates. The mortgage interest rate marker (which is tied to the bond market, not the Federal discount rate) remained steady for the past 12 months with a low of 3.5% to a high of 4.25% for a 30 year fixed rate loan, both conventional and jumbo. Everyone kept saying, “This has to change,” but it never did. Now the question is shifting more from “Will they or won’t they?” to “When?” Expect rates to slowly rise, perhaps beginning by Spring Break or earlier. The rise will probably be slow and should have little impact on the Lake Oswego housing market except for the entry level where every increase hurts.

●Rental market. Across the country we are seeing more people renting than buying. New apartments locally were added in 2015 near ClubSport. More will come with the Wizer project and there are actually many small 2-10 unit projects that have popped up around town. This could impact demand for housing as more people have the option to rent rather than own in Lake Oswego. However, I believe in the value of calling Lake Oswego home, and think that after renting here for a while, renters are very likely to put down roots…by buying a home.

●Buyer/seller market. Last year started off as a strong seller’s market but ended up with things in balance. I see 2016 headed for more of the same which personally, I see as healthy. It helps us to determine real values, not inflated ones that can come back to haunt us as they did in 2008.

●Sweat equity. This part is up to you—what you decide to redo, remodel, update, or add on to the house you are currently living in. If you’re a fan of HGTV, you know that in most cases, sweat equity pays off. But before you hire that contractor, or pick up that paintbrush, feel free to give me a call at 503.939.9801 so I can advise you on where you will get the most bang for your fixer-upper bucks. Not all home remodeling projects are created equal and some will reap you more rewards in terms of resale than others. I’m happy to put my market knowledge to work in helping you make the right decision.

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New Things to Try in the New Year in Lake Oswego Oregon

Posted on December 27, 2015 by lovelakeoswego

TRY SOMETHING NEW(4)With the upcoming New Year comes the desire to try new things. Luckily the Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation Department is thinking along those same lines. Here are some new offerings for you to check out in 2016:

Night Night Yoga. What better way to wind your day down than with a blend of restorative yin yoga, yoga nidra and slow-flow vinyasa. This slower paced class is designed to create a relaxing experience where you can quiet your mind and settle in for a peaceful evening. Thursdays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Palisades School, 1500 Greentree Rd. Cost: $62/Resident; $78/Non-Resident. Register for Class 13241 that runs January 7 through February 25 or 13242 running March 3 through April 28.

Salmon Bake at Palisades. Enjoy Northwest Salmon prepared in the traditional style cooked over an open fire pit and enjoy Native American music and dance. February 26 at 6:00 p.m. at Palisades School, 1500 Greentree Rd. Cost: $10/person; Free/6 and under. Purchase at the Lake Oswego Library or Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation Department.

Boomer’s Boot Camp in the Park. Take your workout up a notch in the fresh air. All you need is a mat and an early morning wake-up call. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. West Waluga Park, 15775 Waluga Drive. Cost: $79/Resident; $99/Non-Resident. Register for Class 13210 held March 3 through April 28.

Adventures Without Limits. While this outdoor experience is not new, a local pick-up at Tualatin Park and Ride near Bridgeport Village is, eliminating one of the excuses that may have been preventing you from trying this out. Adventures this session include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Check them out.

New Youth Art Classes. Meet the Artists allows kids from ages 8-14 to get up close and personal with the likes of Picasso, Matisse and Georgia O’Keefe as they create their own mixed media interpretations of their works. 3D Art Exploration introduces youth from ages 8-18+ to many of the exciting developments in the art world today including 3D printing and culminates in an on-site show for the public.

All About That Bass. Kids ages 7-12 who are all-in when it comes to bass, can explore that sound through a variety of instruments and learn how they are used in both jazz and classical music. Wednesdays from 4:15 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. at Palisades School, 1500 Greentree Rd. Cost: $101/Resident; $117/Non-Resident. Register for Class 12950 held from April 6 through May 11.

Boot Scootin’ Barn Dance. This family-friendly event will have you breaking out your cowboy hats and boots for an evening of line dancing, light grub and drinks. Saturday, April 30 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Luscher Farm, 125 Rosemont Rd.

Spin Classes at Palisades. Coming this summer…The Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation has a teaser in this winter/spring catalog advertising spin classes at Palisades as a way to generate interest. Interested? Call and let them know at 503.675.2549. Currently they’re thinking spin classes will be offered this summer so watch in the next catalog.

Speaking of new…if you’re in the market for a new home, give me a call. I’d like to put my 25+ years experience as a Realtor to work in helping you buy or sell a home in Lake Oswego. 503.939.9801. Or check my website.

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Here’s How to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Lake Oswego Oregon

Posted on December 20, 2015 by lovelakeoswego

Celebrate the New Year in Lake OswegoConsider toasting in the New Year in Lake Oswego. If you live here, you can’t beat the convenience, and a few places around town are ready to make you glad you decided to stay close to home.

Stickmen’s Brewery. 40 N. State Street, 503.344.4449. Stickmen’s New Year’s Eve Party kicks off at 9:00 p.m. and will feature a silent disco with a heated tent on the patio for dancing. Party-goers will all receive wireless headphones through which music will be broadcast on two different channels. It’s a trending way to boogie and it’s happening right here in LO. The $75 ticket price includes finger foods, two drink tickets, party favors, a late night sandwich bar and a champagne toast at midnight. Purchase online or in person at the restaurant.

Maher’s Irish Brew Pub. 352 B Avenue, 503.305.8087. Get a head start on your celebration by ringing in the Irish New Year at 4:00 p.m. (the pub opens at 2:30 p.m.) You’re welcome to come back later to do it in Pacific Standard Time as well.

Gemini Pub. 456 N. State Street, 503.636.9445. The Brian Odell band will be on hand to usher you into the New Year beginning at 9:00 p.m.

Once the New Year dawns, might I suggest a run or walk around the lake to start your new year off on the right foot? I promise you…you won’t be alone out there. It’s a popular tradition around these parts. Here are some other ideas too.

Be in the know when it comes to living in Lake Oswego. Click the “Sign me up” button in the top right hand column to receive weekly updates.

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5 Places to Find One-of-a-Kind Gifts in Lake Oswego

Posted on December 13, 2015 by lovelakeoswego

5 Places to Find One-of-a-Kind Gifts in Lake OswegoWant to make sure your gift is one-of-a-kind? Give an experience that recipients can find nowhere else than right here in Lake Oswego. Here are some ideas.

Wine Tasting. For $15, you can treat someone to a Friday night wine tasting at World Class Wines. The price includes six wines with an optional $5 bonus pour as well as cheese and crackers. A different vintner is featured each week and you can learn a lot (as well as enjoy yourself) between 4:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. 149 A Avenue. 503.974.9841.

A class. Whether it’s a computer class at the Lake Oswego Adult Community Center, a crafting class at Nic & Figs Makery, or a Paleo Cooking Class through the Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation Department, you can give the gift of knowledge to friends and family. Give them a reason to try something new by gifting them the registration fee.

Concerts. Make it a night on the town for someone special. Purchase tickets to upcoming concerts at the Lake Theater and Café and grab dinner beforehand. Performances include Blues Dance! With Mitch Kashmar, Alan Hager and Dean Mueller on December 28 for $10; Taylor John William (The Voice Season 7’s fifth place finisher) on January 4 for $20; and Laurie Jones CD Release Concert (following her successful Kickstarter campaign) on January 11 for $15. 106 N. State Street. 503.482.2135.

Theatre. Give someone an excuse to get out and experience live theatre right here in town at the Lakewood Center on two different stages. Tickets are available for Golden Boy on the main stage running from January 8 through February 14 ($32 for adults) as well as two Side Door stage performances in concert version sans sets, or props of Jamaica (February 19-20) and Sail Away (April 15-16). General admission is $20. 368 S. State Street. 503.635.3901.

Tour. The Classic Houses and History Boat Tour on Oswego Lake is the signature fundraising event for the Lake Oswego Preservation Society. Typically held the Saturday after Labor Day, space is limited so you need to put your name on the list now by emailing the society. Tickets are $75/person with $25 of each ticket a tax deductible charitable contribution. See if you can get your special someone a spot on the list and make him or her your guest! 503.481.2479.

If you’re looking for a house that’s one-of-a-kind, I can help you there. Check out my website, give me a call at 503.939.9801 and let’s go shopping!

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Simplify Holiday Shopping by Shopping in Lake Oswego

Posted on December 6, 2015 by lovelakeoswego

HOLIDAY SHOPPINGOne way to simplify your holidays is to shop local. Lake Oswego businesses have decked their halls with all kinds of goodies for loved ones on your list. Take a look at what they have to offer.

Soletta Shoe Boutique. 390 N. State St., Suite 116. 503.210.4125. Owner Carrie Elliott has lots planned this holiday season to make your shopping easier and merrier. This week (December 11-12) she’s helping husbands out with her “Hints for Husbands” sale featuring 20% off selected items and “Wish Lists” for the ladies. And all month long, she has new items arriving so be sure to check in on a regular basis. In addition to a sophisticated shoe selection, you’ll find handbags, belts, jewelry, and scarves…all with a designer touch.

Accessories From the Heart. 220 A Avenue, Suite 100. 503.675.1144. Owner Carol Winston is out to make your gift giving easy by bringing some of the best that over 100 vendors have to offer. There is clothing by Sympli, sleepwear by PJ Salvage, fine leather Hobo handbags, clutches and wallets. Got a traveler on your list? A Mycra Pac designer packable travel coat would be perfect! Simplify the life of the entertainer on your list by getting her a Nora Fleming platter which she can personalize for each occasion with interchangeable mini ornaments that snap on to the dish.

Grapevine. 310 N. State Street. 503.635.6009. Sweaters are always a good fit under the tree and Grapevine has them in all price points from brands like Wooden Ships and Sanctuary to Repeat, Vince and Eileen Fisher. Check out the selection of scarf and mitten sets, warm winter hats, and one of their top sellers—plaid shirts from Rails. Grapevine is partnering up with the Lake Oswego Mother’s Club to help people in need by offering a $25 store credit for every gift you bring into the store—that’s quite a return on your holiday giving.

Holiday Gallery. 510 First Street. 503.675.3738. Choose from handcrafted art by 30 local artists, many of whom could be your neighbors. Choose from a variety of mediums including ceramic lamps, hand turned exotic wood bowls, paints, prints, woven scarves, glassware, jewelry, candles and greeting cards. Open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. through December 23. Friday receptions with wine and treats are scheduled for December 12 and 19 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and December 20 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

R Blooms. 267 A Avenue, 503.636.5876. You’ll feel like you walked into Santa’s workshop once you make your way past the 12 foot Nutcracker greeting you at the entrance to this more-than-a-florist-shop-florist-shop. This is the Christopher Radko headquarters with almost three walls devoted to his collection. For home décor you’ll also find interactive wall art that lights up when you press a button as well as Lifetime Liquid Candles. Inside the glass containers holding the replaceable oil, are beautiful preserved natural and man-made accents such as bright red apples, greens, orchids and hand painted butterflies, making this a work of art whether the candle is glowing or not. And check out the Hot Skwash collection of pumpkins all decked out in holiday colors as well as the silk velvet strawberries accented with Swarovski crystals seeds.

SnapCurate. 460 Second St. 408.750.4888. Rose Laughlin is an art lover who wants to share her passion with others by providing a venue where artwork and those who appreciate it can come together. Just in time for the holidays she has moved into Graham’s Book & Stationary’s former space and lined up an offering of art pieces from both local as well as national artists. You’ll find greeting cards designed by a Lake Oswego high school student, jewelry, sculpture, a rare Ed Hardy poster, work by Portland visual artist Arnold Pander and lavishly decorated Christmas trees ready to bring the holidays to your home.

Lucky Me Boutique. 385 1st St, Suite 115. 503.636.9595. There’s lots to choose from here and lots to just make you stand back and smile. How about a bedazzled bracelet for your Laker or Pacer fan? There are twistable scarf accessories to embellish this popular cold weather wardrobe must-have. Stocking stuffers include a melting snowman, PDX carpet socks and undies, and wish bracelets. Lucky Me also offers a colorful jewelry collection as well as Pandemonium faux fur vests, scarves, hats and gloves, and bSoft sleepwear.

Wishbone Home and Design. 41 B Avenue, 503.636.1229. Dress up your home for the holidays with seasonal décor that includes fresh or preserved plants, rugs and holiday candles. Gift items include jewelry, Oregon Olive Mill products, candlesticks, frames and gift cards. Pick up a little decorating advice while you’re at it from the experts on hand.

Nic & Figs Makery. 425 Second Street, Suite 120. 503.479.8596. Everything here is handmade and much of it locally in Lake Oswego and Portland. For kids, you’ll find “maker kits” so they can create their own dream catchers, hot chocolate or cupcakes. Hands-on adults might like cheese making supplies or a starter package of Kombucha. There’s also a selection of books, jewelry and art prints for you to choose from.

Lady Di’s British Store and Tea Room. 430 Second Street. 503.635.7298. Load up for the anglophile on your list with mince pies, shortbread, Christmas crackers, English bone china and Christmas pudding. And grab some respite for yourself with a pot of tea and crumpets in the tea room.

Paper Caper. 16829 65th Avenue. 503.620.9460. From stocking stuffers to hostess gifts you can check a lot of people off your list at this store. You’ll find a large assortment of adult coloring books which seem to be a craze this season along with different shades and sizes of colored pencils. Other selections include holiday salt and pepper shakers, wine tags, ugly beer sweaters, and knitted head warmers. For ambiance, include some Fraiser Fir products in your shopping bag—candles, mist, and sachet will ensure your home will smell like Christmas.

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Your Guide to Ringing in the Holidays in Lake Oswego (Part 2)

Posted on November 29, 2015 by lovelakeoswego

christmas-xmas-santa-claus-adventThe holiday activities just keep on coming! Here are some more to usher you all the way through.

Holiday Magic Breakfast Theatre. Since this event repeats next weekend, I included it here again. Enjoy a special holiday continental breakfast ½ hour before the curtain goes up for this interactive production of The Peppermint Bear Show: The Taming of the Shoe featuring area high school student performers. Geared for ages 3-12. Saturdays, December 5, 12, and 19 and Sundays, December 13 and 20, at 9 and 11 a.m. in the Lakewood Center Community Meeting Room at the Lakewood Center for the Arts, 368 S. State Street. Advance reservations are required by purchasing tickets either online, at the box office or by calling: 503.635.3901. Fee: $14/adults;$12/youth 18 and under.

Herbal Gift Workshop for ages 16+. Learn how to infuse oils and make salt scrub, lip balm and massage oils perfect for gift giving. Saturday, December 12 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Luscher Farm, 125 Rosemont Road. Register for Class #12326. $30/Resident;$45/Non-Resident.

Tinseltown Trolley. Enjoy a Yuletide ride on the Willamette Shore trolley all decked out for the holidays on Saturday, December 12. Includes story time, treats, carols and a visitor from the North Pole. Reservations for the 45 minute rides can be made for departures at 1:00 p.m., 2:15 p.m., 3:30 p.m., and 4:45 p.m. Cost is $15 (12 and under); $18 for adults. Departs from 311 N State Street. 503.675.2549.

High School Holiday Choir Concerts. Holiday carols have a way of bringing out the merry in all of us. Let local high school students work their magic as they perform in their auditoriums over the next couple of weeks. Lake Oswego High School on Tuesday, December 15 at 7:00 p.m. 2501 Country Club Rd., 503.534.2313. Lakeridge High School on Wednesday, December 16 at 7:30 p.m. 1235 Overlook Drive. 503.534.2319.

Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Watch what happens when a teacher casts the worst kids in school to star in the Christmas play. Performances at 7:30 p.m. on December 17-23 and at 2:00 p.m. on December 19-20. Lakewood Center for the Arts, 368 S. State Street. Purchase tickets online, at the box office or by calling: 503.635.3901. Fee: $15/adults;$12/youth 18 and under.

Horse Drawn Wagon Rides. Here’s another opportunity to slow the season down and take in the sights as you ride through downtown Lake Oswego and the First Addition neighborhood. Saturday, December 19 from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Reserved seating is no longer available so it’s first come, first served. $5/adults; $3/children. Rides leave on the half hour from the main fire station, 300 B Avenue. 503.675.2549.

Christmas Ships Parade. Catch a glimpse of up to 60 boats decked out in holiday lights as they make their way from the River Place Marina in Portland to George Rogers Park in Lake Oswego. Boats due to pass by Foothills Park around 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 19.Warm up by the fire in the park shelter while you wait. 199 Foothills Drive. 503.675.2549.

Holidays Around the World for ages 5-12. Keep the kids busy in the days leading up to Christmas as they learn about other cultures, do crafts and bake cookies. Monday, December 21 through Wednesday, December 23 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Luscher Farm, 125 Rosemont Road. Register for Class #12332. $125/Resident;$145/Non-Resident. 503.675.2549.

Last Minute Gift Crafts for grades 6 and up. Materials and snacks will be provided for last minute Santas. Tuesday, December 22 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Lake Oswego Public Library, 706 Fourth Street. 503.675.2538.

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Where to Get Your Pumpkin Fix in Lake Oswego, Oregon

Posted on November 22, 2015 by lovelakeoswego

pumpkinA month ago my 26 year old son alerted my wife and I to the news that there might be a pumpkin shortage this season. I think he was trying to ensure that my infamous pumpkin cream cheese pie would still be served at Thanksgiving.

If you’re a pumpkin fan, don’t let the rumors scare you. There is plenty of pumpkin to go around, especially here in Lake Oswego. Here are some places where you can get your fill this Thanksgiving.

Zupan’s has done their homework—bringing in pumpkin delicacies from around the Portland metro area. You’ll find:
●Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake by Finales both to serve a crowd as well as in an individual 3 oz. serving
●Jaciva Pumpkin Pie
●Sarah’s Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookie
●and on a healthier note, Pumpkin Ginger Snap Cheesecake Greek Yogurt by Ellenos at their Greek yogurt bar.
16380 Boones Ferry Rd., 503.210.4190.

La Provence is in the neighborhood as well and has added a few seasonal temptations to their already enticing lineup of goodies.
●Cranberry Pumpkin Rolls come both individually and arranged as a beautiful centerpiece.
●Pumpkin Cheesecake in various sizes
●Pumpkin Tart available in both individual, 7” and 10” sizes
●Pumpkin Croissant
16350 Boones Ferry Rd., 503.635.453

Kyra’s Bake Shop ensures that gluten-free pumpkin lovers don’t have to do without.
●Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes will be available from November 22-30.
●Pumpkin Doughnuts on November 22
●Pumpkin Spice Scones on Wednesdays and Saturdays
599 A Ave., 503.212.2979.

St. Honoré Boulangerie. As though there wasn’t enough to choose from at St. Honoré, they’ve added seasonal specialties that include pumpkin. But hurry because they won’t be around much longer.
●Pumpkin mille-fuille. If you don’t speak French, it means a decadent combination of layered puff pastry filled with pumpkin custard mousseline. Must be good. I stopped by on a Saturday at 11 a.m. and they were out.
●Pumpkin macaroons
315 1st St., 503.496.5596

UU Yogurt, Yodelish, Lake Oswego Ice Creamery. If you want your pumpkin smooth and creamy, try one of these spots, where pumpkin flavors have made their way into the selections.
●UU Yogurt. A Street Station, 345 1st St., 503.699.6284.
●Yodelish. 3 Monroe Pkwy, 503.305.6574.
●Lake Oswego Ice Creamery. 37 SW A Ave., 503.636.4933.

Local Coffee Shops. From the big guys like Starbucks and Peet’s to the locals like Chuck’s Place and Blue Moon, you can drink your pumpkin with a pumpkin café latte.
●Chuck’s Place. 148 B Ave., 503.675.7861.
●Blue Moon. 3975 Mercantile Dr., 503.805.1883.

R Bloom’s. If you’d rather decorate with your pumpkin than eat it, then stop by this Lake Oswego florist and select one of Hot Skwash’s high-end collectible pumpkins. A local company, Hot Skwash has hit it big, now being carried in Gump’s and Neiman Marcus, but you can hand select your favorite from the crop at R Bloom’s right here in town.  267 A Ave., 503.636.5876.

Paper Caper. And if you’d rather smell your pumpkin instead of serving it on a plate, pick up a popular Pumpkin Spice candle at this popular greeting card and gift shop. 16829 65th Ave., 503.620.9460.

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Posted in Holidays in Lake Oswego | Tagged , , | 1 Comment