a place to share
Thinker Toys
There’s a special kind of joy the moment you step into Thinker Toys that is nostalgic, new, and full of imagination. Kids light up, adults rediscover classics, and the shop feels like a true neighborhood tradition. For over 30 years, this family-owned Multnomah Village favorite has sparked creativity and play.
Shelves are filled with thoughtful toys, games, puzzles, art supplies, and treasures you won’t find in big-box stores. Everything is intentionally chosen to inspire curiosity and connection, lasting long after the wrapping is gone…especially since gift wrapping is free here, a small gesture that says everything about this place.
Thinker Toys makes you slow down and savor the wonder of play. Joyful, welcoming, and timeless.
Journal
The art of simplicity
The season shines brightest in its quiet moments, warm light, simple touches, and time spent with the people who matter. Presence over presents, always.
December events
The city’s buzzing with twinkle lights, makers markets, and events that make you say “only in Portland.” Your curated roundup is live in the Journal.
Local flavor by Hide-A-While
Whether you go classic or zero-proof, this Chai Old Fashioned from Paige at Hide-A-While is pure seasonal comfort, spicy, smooth, and meant to be savored.
Local Biz Spotlight: Thinker Toys
Thinker Toys has been sparking imagination in Multnomah Village for over 30 years, blending nostalgia, creativity, and true neighborhood charm. It’s the kind of place
Neighborhood Spotlight: Northwest Portland
Historic homes, iconic streets, modern lofts, and a forest in your backyard, NW Portland has been defining Portland’s character for over a century.
Local guide to makers markets
Markets big and small are bursting with handmade goods and local spirit. Your new favorite find might be just one booth away.
Local spotlight: Aldercrest
Some places quiet the noise the moment you walk in. Aldercrest is one of them, a calm, light-filled space where skilled hands and mindful care
November events
Fall’s in full swing, and the city’s buzzing with cozy markets, foodie fests, and candlelit gatherings. November’s the month to slow down, show up, and
Through the local lens
Neighborhood Spotlight: Downtown, SW Portland. Where Portland’s story began and where it keeps reinventing itself. From river roots to rooftop views, this district blends history,
Local guide to showing up
Roll up your sleeves, rally your spirit, and reconnect with your community. A little time given goes a long way in growing good.
Local flavor by Elsy Dinvil
More than a meal, Soup Joumou is a story of strength. This Haitian “Freedom Soup,” rich with squash and history, finds a home in Portland
Making space for what’s next
Every new chapter starts with a shift, sometimes loud, sometimes quiet. But the beauty of it all? You’re not just moving houses; you’re moving toward
Market vibes | October
Pumpkins, plaid, and pending offers, just another October in Portland. The market’s still moving, and we’ve got the latest on what’s shifting (and what’s not).
Pocket Listing in Gated Catlin Crest
Why you’ll love this home: Exclusive opportunity not yet on the open market! Rare find in the gated Catlin Crest community, this 1/3 acre home
October events
Misty mornings, glowing afternoons, and weekends stacked with pumpkin regattas, Día de los Muertos celebrations, and the salmon run. This is fall in the PNW,
Local flavor by Li Wen Chang
Pumpkin isn’t just for pie, tender braised pork with ginger and spice makes this fall dish the kind you’ll want to savor straight from the
Pro tips for a cozy home
From lighting swaps and scent resets to a basket of throws or a just-in-case comfort kit, these little rituals set the mood for slower evenings
Local guide to fall color outings
Your autumn field guide is here, pumpkin patches, orchards, and harvest festivals across the region, all serving up peak fall vibes whether you stay close
Form meets function
Portland’s neighborhoods read like a living history book, each street lined with homes that tell a story about the era they were built in. From
Market vibes | September
Things are steady in Portland real estate. More homes are available, giving buyers options, but sellers still need to be intentional to stand out.
Get local in Maplewood
. Why you’ll love this home: Life is good in this spacious one-level home ideally situated on a quiet cul-de-sac in the highly sought-after Maplewood
Local spotlight: Bare Beauty
Bare Beauty PDX puts care and confidence first, offering brows, lashes, facials, and waxing, all delivered with thoughtfulness and respect.
September events
September settles in with crisp mornings, golden evenings, and the first signs of fall. It’s a season of harvest, celebration, and making the most of
Rooms with returns
Across the PNW, basements and backyards are being reimagined into income-generating spaces. The big question? Airbnb or ADU, and each comes with its own reality
Home refresh: autumn edition
Your seasonal reminder: before the colder months roll in, give your home a quick checkup. A little attention now can save bigger headaches later.
Local guide to autumn harvest
Your autumn field guide is here, pumpkin patches, orchards, and harvest festivals across the region, all serving up peak fall vibes whether you stay close
Local flavor by Nikki Guerrero
Calabacitas “little squash” is a Mexican classic made with zucchini, corn, and tomatoes. Chef Nikki Guerrero of Hot Mama Salsa shares her simple, comforting, and
Local spotlight: Sugarpine Drive-in
Tucked along the Sandy River, Sugarpine Drive-In is where soft serve meets simple joy, playful flavors, scenic views, and a sweet reminder to slow down.
Story of a Southwest Portland Stunner
Success starts with strategy… When it came time to bring this Ash Creek beauty to market, I knew it deserved more than just a sign
Market vibes | August
Portland’s market is cooling just enough to give buyers breathing room, more homes, less frenzy, while sellers need to bring their A-game to stand out.
tip to finding your dream vacation digs
When you buy a vacation home, chances are you want to keep it for the long-term, so it might be worth factoring in climate predictions when deciding on a location. Make sure whichever region you set your heart on will be one with the greatest return in joy, but also security in knowing that your escape will be there when you’re ready to…well, escape. If you’re looking for a vacation home in an area we don’t serve, we love playing matchmaker to agents who are local pros in the area that is calling your heart.
