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
Local biz spotlight: Al’s Garden & Home
Family-owned and Oregon-grown, Al’s Garden & Home offers locally raised plants, knowledgeable guidance, and a deeply rooted connection to Northwest gardening.
Local Flavor by Jessie Aron
A spring-forward artichoke dish that builds on simple beginnings and layers in walnuts, coffee, aged cheddar, and chile for depth without distraction.
Local guide to coffee culture
From practical beginnings to global influence, Portland’s coffee culture has evolved one cup at a time. Our guide highlights the shops and neighborhoods where that
Neighborhood Spotlight: Southeast Portland
From bustling main streets to calm residential blocks, Southeast Portland balances energy and ease. It’s a place where old homes, small businesses, parks, and daily
February events
Short days, crisp air, and plenty of reasons to leave the house. February knows what it’s doing
Neighborhood Spotlight: Northeast Portland
Built on streetcar suburbs, migration stories, and creative corridors, Northeast Portland moves easily between heritage and reinvention
Local guide to fireside hangouts
Short days, long nights, and places worth lingering. A guide to fire pits, fireplaces, and cozy hangs around Portland and beyond.
Color meets lifestyle
From bold teal to quiet soft white, 2026 color trends reflect a shift toward more intentional, livable spaces.
Local Flavor by Carly Knowles
This is comfort food with intention. A coconut curry lentil stew built for cold Pacific Northwest days, warming, nourishing, and simple enough for a weeknight.
Local biz spotlight: Zenger Farm
At a time when access to fresh food isn’t guaranteed, Zenger Farm offers something steady. A working urban farm in Southeast Portland focused on growing
Neighborhood Spotlight: North Portland
Rooted in working class neighborhoods and cultural legacy North Portland continues to evolve while staying deeply connected to its past.
Home refresh: winter edition
An easy to follow winter home checklist focused on prevention comfort and keeping small issues from becoming bigger ones.
Local guide to living well
This is about motion over motivation. Small joyful ways to move your body, support your well being, and keep things feeling human.
Local flavor by Sonya Sanford
Our local recipe highlights Sonya Sanford, a Portland based culinary voice known for warm approachable cooking inspired by heritage and home.
January events 2026
This season’s events focus less on spectacle and more on experience. Thoughtful gatherings, community traditions, and small moments that make winter feel lived in rather
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,
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.
