5 Ways to Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions in Lake Oswego

Posted on December 31, 2012 by lovelakeoswego

2013 ahead‘Tis the season of good intentions and if you look around Lake Oswego, you’ll see that there are all kinds of resources to help you keep yours.

Here are some resolutions that might show up on your list and suggestions for how people and places in Lake Oswego can increase your odds of success.

1. Read more. Show up at the Lake Oswego Public Library on January 7 between 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. and receive a free copy of this year’s Lake Oswego Reads selection, Running the Rift by Naomi Benaron. A 2010 Bellwether Prizewinner for Socially Engaged Fiction, the story is set in Rwanda amidst Hutu-Tutsi tensions as seen through the eyes of a gifted athletic young boy whose Olympic dreams run into the harsh reality of genocide. Arrive early—limited number of complementary copies available.

2.  Reduce stress. Meditation has come a long way from its “only for Swami” days. Even the Mayo Clinic recommends trying meditation to reduce the stress in your life. Sign up for a One Day Meditation Workshop on Saturday, January 12 from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the West End Building, 4101 Kruse Way. Learn different methods and practical suggestions for incorporating mindfulness and meditation into your day. Register for class #1328365 through the Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation Department. Residents $33; Non-Residents $38.

3. Get involved. If this is the year for you to give back, Lake Oswego can use you! From helping out at Luscher Farm’s Children’s Garden to escorting seniors to doctor appointments through the Adult Community Center, there is a need sure to match the time and talents you have to give.

4. Learn a new skill. You’ve got to mix it up to keep life interesting. Got an inner chef that needs a little channeling? How about a cooking class at In Good Taste? January courses include Soups, Traditional Stuffed Pasta and a Culinary Boot Camp.

Inspired by Dancing with the Stars? Check out the classes at Step It Up Studios right in downtown Lake Oswego. They offer both group and private lessons, including a free one for first-time students. If cowboy boots are more your style than ballroom shoes, then mosey on over to the West End Building on Friday, January 4 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for a free line dance try-it-out session.

5. Start an exercise program. Convenience is one of the things that will help you stick to your resolution to work out more. As luck would have it, there are several fitness clubs right in Lake Oswego to choose from. They include:

●Providence Mercantile Health and Fitness Center 4015 SW Mercantile Dr. 503.216.6606

●Trainer’s Club 333 S. State St., 503.636.3900

●Barre 3 201 B Avenue 503.636.0335

What’s your resolution for this year? Research shows that when you share your resolution with others, you’re more likely to keep it. So let us know what you’re shooting for by leaving a comment…and increase your odds for success!

Photo credit: FrameAngel at  freedigitalphotos.net

Posted in Lake Oswego lifestyle, Things to Do in Lake Oswego | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

5 Reasons Why You Should Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Lake Oswego

Posted on December 23, 2012 by lovelakeoswego

Eve on the Lake reduced-03 (2)Take one new girl in town. Make her an event planner. Pair her with an invitation designer. Have them dream up a fundraiser for the Red Cross and what do you get? Eve on the Lake, Lake Oswego’s first annual New Year’s Eve celebration set from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. at Stickmen Brewery and Skewery, 40 N. State Street. Tickets are $59 if purchased by Monday, December 24; $69 after.

Here’s why you should attend.

  1. Convenience. If you live in Lake Oswego, you know nothing is too far. Even “across town” means only a ten minute car ride. That beats a $40 cab from downtown Portland or covering the cost of an overnight stay in a hotel.
  2. Go green. You’ve heard of Shop Local and all the reasons why you should support the effort from supporting local businesses to consuming less resources. The same applies to Party Local.
  3. Support a good cause. Proceeds from Eve on the Lake go towards Red Cross relief efforts for the victims of Hurricane Sandy. Wake up feeling good New Year’s Day because you helped make a difference.
  4. Tom Grant. Local jazz pianist Tom Grant will be the opening act for the night’s festivities accompanied by Shelly Rudolph.
  5. It’s a party! Your ticket includes endless hors d’oeuvres, a midnight champagne toast, music and dancing. There will be a photo booth to capture the moment and organizers Whitney Werts with Whitney Werts Events and Nessa Sander of Card Girl Invitations promise they have a few other surprises in store for you.

Do you have other plans for New Year’s here in Lake Oswego? Let us know.

And if your New Year plans include buying or selling a home in Lake Oswego, give me a call. I’d love the chance to talk with you about what I can do to help you reach your goal.

Posted in Things to Do in Lake Oswego | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Lake Oswego Neighborhoods Turn On Their Holiday Lights

Posted on December 17, 2012 by lovelakeoswego

When our kids were young we posted an Advent calendar with daily “To Do” lists to celebrate the season. Getting in the car in search of Christmas lights was an annual favorite.

With family and guests in town, this might just be the perfect activity before or after a holiday meal. Here’s what you will find while roaming Lake Oswego’s neighborhoods.

christmas lights 8 touched upchristmas lights 7christmas lights 6

christmas lights 4 touched upchristmas lights 5 touched upChristmas lights 1 cardinal touched up

What are your favorite spots in Lake Oswego for Christmas light viewing? Leave them here for others to enjoy.

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

15 Holiday Events in Lake Oswego Guaranteed to Add Some “Ho Ho Ho” to Your Season (Part 2)

Posted on December 10, 2012 by lovelakeoswego

This was Accessories from the Heart’s entry in last year’s gingerbread house contest. Be sure to check out this year’s creations.

●Holiday Gingerbread Houses of Lake Oswego. Visit local businesses starting December 10 and vote for your favorite in this third annual competition. See if Graham’s Book & Stationery can hold on to their bragging rights from last year. Runs until December 25. Pick up a tour map at Lake Oswego City Hall, 380 A Avenue, or at participating stores. 503.675.2549

●Holiday Open House featuring Three Rivers Choir. Enjoy free refreshments while listening to the holiday sounds of the Three Rivers Choir led by Donna Kagan, Music Educator of the Year. Wednesday, December 12 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. (choir begins at 1:00 p.m.) at the Lake Oswego Public Library, 706 Fourth Street. 503.675.3995

●Lakewood Theatre Company presents “White Christmas.” This holiday classic returns again this year beginning Wednesday, December 12 with performances running nightly through December 22 (except for December 17) at 7:30 p.m. There are also matinees at 2:00 p.m. on December 15, 16,22, and 23. Lakewood Center for the Arts, 368 S. State Street. Tickets are $35 Adult; $32 Senior, with student and group discounts and are available online, at the box office or by calling 503. 635.3901.

●Holiday Concert with John Nilsen. Coming off a 40 city U.S. tour, local recording artist John Nilsen lands back in town just in time to share his holiday tunes. Thursday, December 13 at 2:00 p.m. at Mary’s Woods at Marylhurst, 17400 Holy Names Drive. Free.

●Journey to Bethlehem. Watch the story of the birth of Jesus unfold as you walk through this live production. Registration required for 40-minute walk-through slots. Friday, December 14 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Saturday, December 15, from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Lake Bible Church, 4565 Carman Drive. Free. 503.699.9840

●Homegrown Gift Ideas. Get inspired by demonstrations of how to make fairy gardens, living wreaths and terrariums. Saturday, December 15 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at  Dennis’ 7 Dees, 1090 McVey Avenue. Registration required. Free. 503.636.4660

●Christmas Ships Parade along Willamette River. Bundle up and head over to your favorite vantage point to catch up to 60 holiday boats making their way down the Willamette River. Boats estimated to arrive at Foothills Park, 199 Foothills Drive and George Rogers Park, 611 S. State Street between 6:15 to 6:30 p.m. Event dependent on weather and river conditions. Check for details.

Posted in Things to Do in Lake Oswego | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

15 Holiday Events in Lake Oswego Guaranteed to Add Some “Ho Ho Ho” to Your Season (Part 1)

Posted on December 3, 2012 by lovelakeoswego

If you live in Lake Oswego, there is no excuse for bah-humbugging it this season. Get in the spirit of things by checking out some of these events.

●Lakewood in Lights Fundraiser. This annual event features food, music, dancing and a tree auction to benefit the rising star program at Lakewood Theatre Company. Other highlights include a raffle drawing for a weekend wine getaway for 6 at De Ponte Cellars Vineyard. Monday, December 3, 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Lakewood Center for the Arts, 368 S. State Street. Tickets are $50/person and can be purchased at the box office, online or by calling 503.635.3901.

●Lake Oswego Mom’s Club Holiday Faire. Special guests will be on hand for this second annual event to make the season magical for little ones including Santa and Mrs. Claus and Christmas gnomes. Friday, December 7 from 2:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the West End Building, 4101 Kruse Way. Call 503.675.2549 for more information.

●Reindeer Magic Returns. Bring the whole family to visit Santa and his reindeer. Activities for the kids include make-n-take projects, enjoying holiday tunes and hot cocoa and cider while parents can sample wines from Hip Chicks Do Wine or buy their favorite hot beverage from Pony Espresso and Ole Latte. Friday, December 7 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Dennis’ 7 Dees,1090 McVey Avenue. 503.636.4660

●Holiday Magic Breakfast Theatre–The Peppermint Bear Show: Who Needs Sneeds? Enjoy a special holiday continental breakfast ½ hour before the curtain goes up for this interactive production featuring area high school student performers. Geared for ages 3-12. Saturdays, December 8, 15, and 22 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.

●Gingerbread House Workshop. Kids can learn how to bake gingerbread, decorate a gingerbread house and go home with dough to bake. Geared for ages 6-13. Saturday, December 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Luscher Farm, 125 Rosemont Road in West Linn. $40 for residents; $45 for non-residents. Register for class 4327200 through Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation: 503.675.2549 or at www.lakeoswegoparks.org.

●Horse Drawn Carriage Rides. Take a 15 minute sleigh ride through downtown Lake Oswego. Sign-up sheets available so first-come, first-served. Sunday, December 9 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; Friday, December 14 from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Saturday, December 15 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Rides begin and end at Millennium Plaza Park at the corner of First and Evergreen. $3/ages 11 and older; $1 ages 10 and younger; Free ages 2 and under. 503.675.2549

●Bells N’ Brass Holiday Program. Revel in the sounds of Christmas featuring the Covenant Bell Choir and brass from the Oregon Symphony. Sunday, December 9 at 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at the Lake Grove Presbyterian Church, 4040 Sunset Drive. Free. 503.636.565

●Creative Centerpieces Workshop. Whether for yourself or a friend, learn how to make a centerpiece arrangement that takes advantage of the season’s natural bounty. Sunday, December 9 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Dennis’ 7 Dees, 1090 McVey Avenue. $10 fee goes towards materials. Register online. 503.636.4660.

Check back next week for Part 2. Click the “Sign me up” button in the top right hand column and be notified as soon as the post is up.

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Get Your Holiday Shopping Off to a Merry Start at Lake Oswego’s Holiday Market

Posted on November 26, 2012 by lovelakeoswego

Who’s on your holiday list? Out-of-state relatives? Vegans? The person who has everything?

Do yourself a favor and head over to Lake Oswego’s Holiday Market this Saturday and Sunday at the West End Building where unique holiday crafts, gifts, ornaments and treats will make your gift-giving so much easier and well….merrier.

Here’s a sampling of who and what you’ll find:

SOPHISTICATED BEADS: The fact that Lea McWhorter is bringing her handcrafted jewelry back to the Lake Oswego Holiday Market for the sixth year in a row says something about the event. “It’s a festive and upbeat market,” McWhorter explains.

Who can you check off your list thanks to McWhorter’s designs?

●Accessory savvy women. McWhorter’s collection features Austrian Swarovski crystals, accented with semi-precious stones, pearls and sterling silver. And because of all her repeat business, she is constantly coming up with new designs.

●Out of state relatives and friends. She incorporates the Oregon sunstone (Oregon’s official gemstone) into many of her designs so send your sister a piece of Oregon that she’ll love wearing.

●Someone who has been touched by cancer. Sophisticated Beads carries an entire line of Cancer Jewelry—designs whose purchase helps to support these local organizations: OHSU Knight Cancer Institute for Colon Cancer Research, American Cancer Society, Susan G Komen for the Cure, Oregon and SW Washington Chapter, Jessica’s Hope Foundation for Ovarian Cancer and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

MARSHALL’S HAUTE SAUCE: Last year’s Lake Oswego Holiday Market was Sarah Marshall’s first market as a “small batch hot sauce” entrepreneur. “They do a great job of having a mix of vendors,” she explains, “so there is a real variety.” Her offerings fall under the “gourmet foods” category and would perfect for these recipients on your list:

●Food sensitivity prone. All of Marshall’s sauces are vegetarian and gluten free and most are vegan as well.

●Sustainability minded. Marshall buys local ingredients for her sauces as much as she can in order to support local businesses like herself. Her seasonal offerings: Cranberry Red Jalapeno and Ghost Chili Apple feature locally grown honey crisp apples and cranberries.

●Some like it hot. Marshall’s sauces register at different points on the “hot” scale, combining ingredients to crank up or tone down the sweatometer. The sweetness of the carrots in her Habanero Carrot Curry, for example, soften the hit of the habanero chilis. And her Ghost chili apple features what the 2006 Guinness Book of World Records deemed the hottest pepper in the world.

Market hours are Saturday, December 1 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 2 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The West End Building is located at 4101 Kruse Way. Call for more information: 503.675.2549.

HEAD DOWNTOWN FOR HORSE DRAWN CARRIAGE RIDES

Enjoy an old-fashioned sleigh ride through downtown Lake Oswego. Rides start and end at Millennium Plaza Park from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Friday, November 30; 11 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday December 1; 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 9; 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Friday, December 14; and 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 15. Get there early to sign up as 15-minute rides are on a first-come, first-served basis. Cost is $3 for ages 11 and older; $1 ages 10 and younger; free for children under 2. 503.675.2549. Corner of First and Evergreen.

Stay up-to-date on what’s happening in and what’s unique about Lake Oswego by clicking the “Sign me up” button in the top right hand column. You’ll receive weekly updates in your email box.

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Tradition Lights Up in Lake Oswego with Annual Tree Lighting

Posted on November 19, 2012 by lovelakeoswego

Lake Oswego loves its traditions.

Just check out the crowds at the 4th of July pancake breakfast. Or take a spot in the stands at the annual football game between our cross-town high school rivals.

The 48th Annual Tree Lighting on tap for this Friday, November 23 at 5:00 p.m. is this season’s tradition that combines a crisp winter night with Christmas carols, holiday lights, refreshments, a casual parade and the jolly old man in red himself!

Festivities start at the corner of 5th Street and A Avenue to see the lighting of the Bigelow Plaza Holiday Tree followed by a parade down A Avenue to Millennium Plaza Park at the corner of First and Evergreen for the lighting of the Millennium Tree.

This was part of our family’s annual holiday tradition for years when our kids were younger and then again when they were in high school and the Lakeridge show choir, Company, performed at this event. When our youngest daughter became a member of Company, we had even more reason to attend, better yet, get there early for a front row seat!

Here’s what our kids recall:

Brady: I remember waiting to sit on Santa’s lap, eating as many candy canes as possible and the countdown to seeing the tree light up. Of course, I had a great vantage point—up on top of dad’s shoulders.

Riley: It was really cold but that made the hot chocolate taste that much better.

Casey: I recall waiting with what seemed like most of Lake Oswego for that massive tree to light up. When it did, it was so beautiful and made everyone that much more excited for Christmas.

The Annual Tree Lighting is one of those events that can’t help but put you in the holiday mood. So since the season is among us, I’d suggest you bundle up and check it out.

And get a head start on the giving by bringing donations of non-perishable food or unwrapped toys. Collection bins will be available at Millennium Plaza Park.

P.S. Don’t forget to support Lake Oswego businesses on Small Business Saturday, November 24. They’re open for business all holiday season so take advantage of the convenience, selection, service and hospitality.

Photo credit: Feelart at freedigitalphotos.net

Posted in Things to Do in Lake Oswego | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Lake Oswego Puts On “Best of Show” With This Fall’s Colors

Posted on November 11, 2012 by lovelakeoswego

You can save a lot of money by living in Lake Oswego.

How? You don’t have to travel back east to see beautiful fall colors. My wife and I have been in New Hampshire for the October display of bright reds, oranges and yellows, but this past fall, we found that same intense color rush right here in the Lake Oswego neighborhoods and streets.

Our daughter confirmed this year’s “best of show” on her recent visit from California. Coming from a place where she was laying out in the sun the day before, she was reminded of what it means to live in a place with seasons.

These pictures are a reminder for you too of what fall can look like when you live in the right place–Lake Oswego, Oregon!

Another thing to enjoy in Lake Oswego besides fall colors is the Reunion Farmer’s Market scheduled for this Saturday, November 17 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Millennium Plaza Park on the corner of First and Evergreen. Many of your favorite summer vendors will be on hand with fresh bounty for your Thanksgiving meal. There will also be live music, hay rides, local artisans and food for you to enjoy.

Thanks for checking in here. If you haven’t already, consider subscribing by clicking the “Sign me up” button in the top right hand column. You’ll never miss out on 52 Reasons to Love Lake Oswego.

And if you know of anyone thinking about moving here, please pass along my name. I’d love the chance to show them around!

Posted in Lake Oswego lifestyle, Lake Oswego neighborhoods | Tagged , | 1 Comment

Lamb’s Palisades Market 14th Annual Holiday Show Kicks Off the Season of Entertaining in Lake Oswego

Posted on November 5, 2012 by lovelakeoswego

Lamb’s Palisades Market Holiday Show is set for this Wednesday, November 7,  from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at its Lake Oswego store at 1377 McVey.

Lamb’s Palisades Market is helping to kick off the season of entertaining with its annual Holiday Show this Wednesday, November 7, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Judging by the number of calls store manager Nick Goldsmith has received from customers inquiring about the date, chances are it will be the popular gathering spot it has been for the last 14 years.

While all of the Lamb’s markets host a Holiday Show, the Lake Oswego one is the busiest by far.

“Our customers really look forward to it,” explains Goldsmith who provides a limousine service to transport folks from the United Methodist Church parking lot at 1855 South Shore to the store at 1377 McVey. “It’s our way of thanking them for shopping with us all year.”

The show features over 50 vendors (Goldsmith actually has to turn vendors away) who will be sampling everything from beer and wine to eggnog and gluten free products. Day-of wine specials bring out the oenophiles in the crowd and experienced noshers can make a meal out of the offerings.

The most unusual item available for sampling? That would be ostrich which was a hit a few years back.

While the food and beverage may be what brings locals through the doors during this annual event, it’s the conversation that keeps them there longer than they planned.

The turnout which Goldsmith estimates in the hundreds, ensures that before too long, you’ll be discussing the nuances of an Argyle Chardonnay or doing taste tests of your favorite pesto with your neighbor or friend that you’ve just run into. In a town that likes to entertain, this is a happening so plan on being there.

Posted in Things to Do in Lake Oswego | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

Lake Oswego Homes Are Spooktacular This Halloween

Posted on October 29, 2012 by lovelakeoswego

I know Halloween is supposed to be for the kids, but judging by how decked out some Lake Oswego homes are this season, my guess is that a lot of adults like the holiday too.

Treat yourself by driving around some Lake Oswego neighborhoods including the First Addition, Westridge,  River Run, and Village on the Lake to catch a glimpse of some of these creatures waiting to greet trick-or-treaters Halloween night. And don’t miss last year’s guide to the best trick-or-treating neighborhoods in town.


Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment