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Jessica Berger and Tekela Fisher

7 Essential Home Maintenance Tips for September

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As summer gradually gives way to fall, it’s time to shift our focus from beach days and barbecues to preparing our homes for the cooler months ahead. September is the perfect time to tackle some essential home maintenance tasks to ensure your abode is in top shape for the autumn and winter. In this blog post, we’ll explore seven crucial home maintenance tips for September.

1. Gutter Cleaning

With the summer months often bringing storms and debris, your gutters and downspouts may have accumulated leaves, twigs, and other debris. Clearing them out now will prevent clogs and ensure proper drainage when the fall leaves start to fall.

2. HVAC Maintenance

As the temperatures drop, your heating system will soon become your best friend. Make sure it’s up to the task by scheduling a professional HVAC inspection and tune-up. Regularly changing or cleaning air filters will also help your system run efficiently throughout the season.

3. Check for Drafts

Drafty doors and windows can significantly impact your home’s energy efficiency. Take the time to inspect these areas for gaps and cracks. Seal them with weatherstripping or caulking to keep the cold air out and the warm air in.

4. Lawn Care

While your lawn may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about home maintenance, it’s still essential to give it some attention before winter arrives. Aerate and overseed your lawn to promote healthy growth, and continue mowing, watering, and fertilizing as needed.

5. Inspect Roof and Chimney

Your roof takes a beating throughout the year, and it’s crucial to check for any loose or damaged shingles. Address these issues promptly to prevent leaks and further damage. Don’t forget to inspect your chimney for cracks or damage, and make sure your fireplace or stove flue is clean and ready for use.

6. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Your safety is paramount. Ensure that all your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order by testing them and replacing batteries if needed. It’s a simple yet vital step to protect your home and loved ones.

7. Clean and Store Summer Gear

As summer bids adieu, take some time to clean and properly store your outdoor furniture, BBQ grills, and gardening tools. Store summer clothing and equipment in a dry, safe place to keep them in good condition until next year.

By following these seven essential home maintenance tips for September, you’ll not only keep your home in top shape but also prepare it for the coming fall and winter months. Take these tasks one step at a time, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing your home is ready to weather the changing seasons. Don’t wait; start your September home maintenance checklist today!

Unhappy with doing maintenance on your home? Perhaps it is time for a new one! You can search homes using the button below!

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Portland’s Best Take-out

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As summer winds to a close and the impending rains are looming, most of us Portlanders start steering away from the patios and into our cozy homes with some great take-out. Whether you are feeling like tacos or Thai, pizza or poke, we’ve got you covered here in our list of Portland’s Best Take-Out!

Arawan Thai

Delicious Thai take-out with locations in Vancouver and Happy Valley. Tons of menu choices, tender meats, and the perfect spice level make this spot stand out. Check that menu Here.

Vancouver, WA and Happy Valley locations. Open 11 am-8:30 pm 7 days a week.

Assembly Brewing

Detroit-style pizza at its finest! Options vary from meat lovers to veggie friendly, but just don’t forget the beer on your way out. Menu Here

6112 SE Foster Rd, Portland, OR 97206. Open 11 am-10 pm 7 days a week.

Ate-Oh-Ate

When you are craving some delicious Hawaiian food on the go, Ate-Oh-Ate is a fantastic choice. The Kal-Bi Ribs are my personal go to, but there is something on the menu to make everyone smile. Check them out Here.

Locations on E Burnside and SE Woodstock. Open 11-9 Daily

Dough Zone

Delicious Chinese comfort food has made it’s appearance on the South Waterfront and we will say do NOT sleep on those dumplings! Full menu can be found Here.

1910 S River Dr, Portland, OR 97201. Open 11 am-10 pm 7 days a week.

Ki’ikibáa

Incredible Yucatecan cuisine can be found in this cute lil spot on 82nd. Salbutes, Panuchos, Cochinita Pibil- bring your appetite! No official website, but you can check out their specials on Insta.

3244 NE 82nd Ave Portland, OR 97220. Open 11 am-9 pm Tues-Sun.

Nicholas Restaurant

Wonderfully fresh and super shareable Lebanese and Mediterranean food can be found at any of the 3 locations of Nicholas’ Restaurant. Check out the deliciousness Here.

Locations at SE Madison, NE Broadway, and Gresham. Open Daily- 11 or 12 to 8 or 9.

Hat Yai

Styled after the street chicken and roti shops of Southern Thailand, this is a great spot to grab a combo set of curry, roti, and their famous fried chicken. Menu can be found Here.

Locations on NE Killingsworth and SE Belmont. Open Daily- 11:30-3 and 4-9.

My Brothers Crawfish

If you’re looking for Creole cooking then look no further. They specialize in seafood boils, but also have a full menu of southern classics such as gumbo and hush puppies. Check out their full menu Here

8230 Se Harrison St, Portland Oregon 97236. Open 7 days a week from 3pm- 10pm.

Seasweets Poke

Looking for something fresh and filling? Seasweets Poke does the trick! Customizable bowls of rice or kale salad topped with fresh raw fish and your choice of assorted toppings. Menu can be found Here.

Locations on SE 31st, in Clackamas, and in Beaverton. Open Daily- 11 am 9pm.

Miss Delta

How about some BBQ? There are plenty of options to satisfy your smoked meat craving. Some of your options include brisket, baby back ribs, and pulled pork. The options don’t stop there however, They offer an entire brunch menu as well! Take a closer look at the menu Here

3950 N Mississippi Ave, Portland OR 97227 Open 12-9 Daily. 

Swagat Indian Cuisine

Wonderful flavors and spices abound at Swagat, and they are hands-down my personal top pick for Indian take-out in the Portland Metro area. Check out the deliciousness Here.

Locations in NW Portland, Beaverton, and Hillsboro. Open Daily- 11:30-2:30 and 5-9.

Pollo Bravo

pollo bravo take-out

Rotisserie Chicken is pretty hard to beat when it’s done perfectly! You’ll never be disappointed here. Options include 1/4, 1/2, or 1 whole bird with some pretty awesome side dishes like Radicchio Salad and 5 different sauces to pick form as well. Take a look at their full menu Here

1225 N Killingsworth, Portland, OR 97217. Open 11:30-9 Tues-Sun, 4-9 Mon.

We hope you enjoy this list of our favorite spots for take-out in Portland! If we missed your favorite, please let us know in the comments, we LOVE trying new places!

Or if you want to see what else we have been loving, you can see our other “best-of” lists HERE. Let us know what you are loving in the comments.

Shine Distillery

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Fusing Spirits, Food, and Atmosphere into an Unforgettable Evening

Nestled in N Williams, Shine Distillery isn’t just another distillery. It’s a unique offering in a sea of Portland Distilleries. Me and a girlfriend decided to go and check it out.

In 2019 Jonathan Poteet, a veteran in the brewing world, unveiled his vision for Shine Distillery—a concept that defied the norms. Unlike traditional distilleries, Shine embraced the spirit of a brewpub, offering an expansive food and cocktail menu alongside its lineup of vodka, gin, and whiskey. The outcome? A space that encourages patrons to not only relish the spirits, but to relax in a laid back environment with their favorite foods.

Shine has multiple seating offerings depending on the type of experience that you are looking for. There is a kid friendly dining room and bartop directly across from the distillery on the main floor. There is also a 21+ seating section on the second level and a small bartop. Or you can make the best choice and sit on the roof top patio which is also 21+. We arrived just in time to watch the sunset.

We tried the Pink 75, a twist on my favorite cocktail. The pink gin is flavored with pink hibiscus and it really complemented the lemon and prosecco. This was absolutely one of my favorite 75s. I also tried the Lavender Love made with gin, lavender, lemon and egg white. It was frothy, tart and delicious. We also of course had to try a tasting flight. We were able to sample the gin, hibiscus gin, vodka, and minty vodka. They were all clean, easy to sip, and tasted exactly as the ought to.

We didnt try any food this time around as we really just wanted to enjoy a cocktail but you can find things like burgers, pretzels, artichoke dip, and pasta. They also have a happy hour from 4pm-6pm which we will be coming back to!

September Events

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The weather is changing, nights are getting cooler, and the summer festivals are coming to an end. We are still holding on to the last bits of summer and we have some fun things for you to do while you take in the last of the warm sunny days.

Grand Prix of Portland

Every fall since 2018, Portland International Raceway has hosted the celebrated open-wheel racing with the Grand Prix of Portland.Held from 1984–2007 under various names, the race is back at Portland International Raceway as the only Verizon IndyCar Series race in the Pacific Northwest.

Portland International Raceway

From $40 – TICKETS

September 1st-3rd

Montavilla Jazz Festival

This year, the festival highlights some of Portland’s jazz scene-makers, with internationally-acclaimed drummer Alan Jones headlining the festival Sunday evening with his quartet featuring Grammy Award-winners Tivon Pennicott and Kevin Hays, joined by NYC bassist Joe Martin.

Various Locations

Pricing Varies by Event – TICKETS

September 1st – 3rd

Dahlia Festival

Celebrate the season of DAHLIAS. A Rainbow of Color. Stroll through almost 40 acres and a beautiful display garden of stunning dahlias featuring over 370 varieties. The beautiful fields are open from August to September each year, closed on Wednesdays. 

Swan Island Dahlias

Free

August 2nd – Sept 30th, 9am – 5:30pm

Chapman Swift Watch

To catch all the avian action, plan to arrive at least half an hour before sunset — that’s about 8 p.m. near the start of September and 7 p.m. by the month’s end. Bring your binoculars, snacks, jackets and something comfy to sit on, and settle in for one of the city’s best free spectator events.

Chapman Elementary

Free

All Month at Sunset

Art in the Pearl

Portland’s Art In The Pearl Fine Arts and Craft Festival celebrates 26 years of bringing art to the community. The distinctly artist-run event has long been a favorite in Portland, and it’s the perfect Labor Day destination to gather and celebrate the end of summer.

North Park Blocks

Free

September 2nd – 4th, 10am – 5pm

First Thursday

Stroll through the art galleries in the pearl for an evening of art, music, and wine! Parking is difficult so public transit is recommended

The Pearl District

Free

September 7th, 5pm – 10pm

Belmont Street Fair

The Belmont Street Fair is one of the largest-attended street fairs in Portland. With food and retail vendors of all kinds, show-stopping performances, and activities for all ages, the Belmont Street Fair is fun for everyone.

SE Belmont st from 31st -39th

Free

September 9th, 10am – 5pm

Dragon Boat Festival

Enjoy Portland’s annual Dragon Boat Festival, featuring dragon boat racing along with food vendors, a beer garden and more. DragonSports USA Portland Dragon Boat Festival features over 40 Oregon, Washington, and California teams.

Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Free

September 9th-10th, starting at 9am

Mt Angel Oktoberfest

Go and enjoy the largest folk festival in the NW and wander the streets of Mt Angel which are filled with celebration! Join in our German/Swiss festival and see why Mt Angel Oktoberfest is a Touch of Bavaria.

Mt. Angel Oregon

Free to attend

September 14th – 17th

NW Clothing Swap

The BIGGEST Clothing Swap in the Northwest. Two full floors of swapping fun. The Ballroom on the 3rd Floor: The main swap area with tons of clothing sorted into non-binary categories as well as a plethora of shoes and accessories.Plus, a bar. $10 and a bag of clothes get you a WHOLE NEW WARDROBE. 

Crystal Ballroom

$10 – TICKETS

September 17th, 12pm – 3pm

Oaks Park Oktoberfest

Head to Oaks Amusement Park for their annual Oktoberfest, where you can expect several beers on tap, delicious German food, live bands and performances by dance groups.

Oaks Park

Starting at $22 – TICKETS

September 22nd – 24th

The Wedge

The Wedge is a Farmers Market-style festival celebrating cheese and everything with it. Sample and purchase local artisan cheese, specialty foods, beer, wine, and cider. This is a family-friendly event that’s open to all cheese lovers.

Alder Block

Starting at $25 – Tickets on sale soon

September 30th

We hope to see you at some of these awesome events!

Looking for something else to do? Check out our best of lists!

The Houston Blacklight

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Clinton street just got some funky new flavor and it’s name is the The Houston Blacklight. We got to check out this rad new hangout during their opening week and let me tell you, we are obsessed! The entire place is a multisensory experience like no other, and we are very confident that it will be a Clinton street mainstay for many years to come.

One of my favorite things about the space is that the decor is not just decor, it is an immersive experience. From beaded curtains to run your hands along to a whole tasseled wall at the entrance to the color-shifting artwork in the bathrooms, there is always something incredible to look at or touch in The Houston Blacklight. As the name for the bar is taken from the company that produced the psychedelic blacklight posters of the 70’s, it is only appropriate that they would fully live up to that experience.

The cocktails at The Houston Blacklight are imaginative and delightful, with creative combinations that sound like they shouldn’t really work and then they really, really do. A great example of this is the Many Things Cannot Fly- a combo of blackberry gin, coconut rum, Jager and black sesame orgeat. I thought this would NOT be my thing and then I loved it! My personal favorite of the evening though was the Silence is Silly- an incredibly refreshing mix of gin, lime aperitif, Bitter Bianco, cucumber, and salted plum. I would drink these all day and all night if my liver would allow.

The Houston Blacklight shines in the food department as well. They take bar classics and comfort food staples and then put their signature Malaysian-ish twist (with a dabble of French) on them. The Grilled Roti stuffed with cheese is dipped into a spicy tomato curry for an outstanding twist on the classic. French onion ramen hits such a perfect note, it makes you wonder why it hasn’t been done before. My biggest regret of the night was that we shared the Bone Marrow Burger, rather than me just stuffing the entire juicy, rich, indulgent thing into my face alone.

Long story short, you are going to want to go this place. Eat all of the things. Drink all of the things. Play like you are a kid again or a slightly mind-altered adult. We certainly cannot wait to go back and do it all again.

Have you been to the Houston Blacklight yet? What did you think? Let us know in the comments or check them out Here.

August Events

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Can you believe we are almost to the end of summer? Well to celebrate we have an insane number of events for you! There are also so many street fairs and one day cultural events that they have their very own list at the end. Also it’s Hood to Coast month! Tekela and I are both running it, so we would love to see you cheering us on.

First Thursday

Stroll through the art galleries in the pearl for an evening of art, music, and wine! Parking is difficult so public transit is recommended

The Pearl District

Free

August 3rd, 5pm – 10pm

Dahlia Festival

Celebrate the season of DAHLIAS. A Rainbow of Color. Stroll through almost 40 acres and a beautiful display garden of stunning dahlias featuring over 370 varieties. The beautiful fields are open from August to September each year, closed on Wednesdays. 

Swan Island Dahlias

Free

August 2nd – Sept 30th, 9am – 5:30pm

Pickathon

The three-day festival on 80 acres just outside Portland attracts a range of indie, rock and rap artists as well as the bluegrass troupes that gave the event its name. The lineup is geared toward new music discovery; don’t worry if you haven’t heard of most of the artists — that’s half of the fun!

Pendarvis Farm

From $195 – TICKETS

August 3rd-6th

Sneaker Week

Sneaker Week is a celebration of all things sneakers in the footwear capital of North America. Curators, fans and collectors will gather to experience music, design, art and education at locations around Portland.

Various Locations

Pricing Varies by Event

August 3rd – 9th

Concerts in the Park

For over a century, local musicians of all genres and traditions have been entertaining crowds in Portland parks every summer. Listen to diverse beats — like improvisational African jazz or Celtic folk-rock — and enjoy a bite from local food vendors like Pip’s Original Doughnuts as you jam out with other community members.

Citywide

Free

Thursday, Friday, Saturday 6:30pm

Vanport Jazz Festival

The Vanport Jazz Festival, presented by Moda Health and the Portland Trail Blazers, honors the city of Vanport and the voices that formed Portland’s jazz community. Near the historic 1948 flood site, the event transforms Colwood Golf Course into a cultural revival, welcoming nationally renowned artists and breathing new life into Portland jazz.

Colwood Golf Center

Starting at $60 – TICKETS

August 4th-5th, times vary

Unique Markets

Discover the best of Portland’s independent designers, artists and emerging brands in a festive indoor setting this summer. Enjoy complimentary refreshments, lounges, photo booths, creative DIY activities, arcade games, music and more while you browse a curated lineup of over 60 up and coming small businesses.

Veterans Memorial Coliseum

Starting at $10 – TICKETS

August 5th-6th, 10am – 4pm

Portland Hot Sauce Expo

Enjoy the taste of a huge variety of hot sauces at this annual exhibition. The expo includes free hot sauce tastings, a selection of craft beers and specialty cocktails, snacks ranging from barbecue to vegan bites, and the “Stage of Doom.

OMSI

Starting at $10 – TICKETS

August 12th – 13th,

World Naked Bike Ride

Wearing a helmet is a great way to stay safe while bicycling — no one would argue with that. But what about the rest of a rider’s attire? For the undressed masses who streak through Portland each year during the World Naked Bike Ride, accouterments are largely unnecessary. And besides, it’s much more fun to bike buck naked.

TBD (usually SE Portland)

Free

August 12th, 7:30pm

Bridge Pedal

Portland’s annual Bridge Pedal is a community celebration of the city’s iconic bridges and biking culture. Join your friends and neighbors for the one opportunity each year to bike or walk on Portland’s car-free streets and bridges 

Multiple Locations

Starting at $40 – TICKETS

August 13th

Portland Fashion Week

Portland Fashion Week believes sustainable practices, including reducing, reusing and recycling, will fully encompass all of the aforementioned values associated with slow fashion. From top-of-the-line eco-chic fashion experiences to our support for the local fashion community, it’s no wonder Portland Fashion Week is on the “Top 100 Things to Do Before You Die” Portland Bucket List.

Multiple Locations

Pricing Varies – TICKETS

August 14th – 20th

Adult Soap Box Derby

Put down your video game controllers and step away from your Mario Kart. The best way to race isn’t on a screen; it’s down an extinct cinder cone volcano in Southeast Portland. The annual PDX Adult Soapbox Derby, pits grown-up kids against each other, with each team designing and assembling their own downhill racers in pursuit of maximum speed or big laughs.

Mt Tabor Park

Free

August 19th, 10am – 4pm

Hood To Coast

If you aren’t running this relay (timberline to seaside) you can still cheer runners on as they make their way towards the coast. OR avoid the areas if you don’t want the interruption to traffic. Tekela and I will both be there!

Various Locations – MAPS

Free to watch

August 25th-26th

Culture Festivals and Street Fairs

We hope to see you at some of these awesome events!

Looking for something else to do? Check out our best of lists!

Dirty Pretty

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Nestled in the heart of Portland’s East Burnside Street, Dirty Pretty stands as a captivating cocktail bar and kitchen that promises an enchanting escape from the ordinary. With a blend of whimsical charm and alluring mystery, this new addition to the city’s nightlife has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Dirty Pretty cabana
Dirty Pretty Patio
Dirty Pretty
A Taste of Imagination

Dirty Pretty boasts a cocktail list that pushes the boundaries of traditional mixology, thanks to the artistry of some of the finest bartenders in town. Among the signature cocktails, “Plume” takes center stage with a tantalizing fusion of gin, campari, strawberry, and pink peppercorn. The result is a playful yet sophisticated drink that leaves a lasting impression on your palate.

Another must-try is the “Spirited Away” cocktail – a delightful concoction of gin, sake, lichi, lemongrass, and ginger. The well-balanced blend of flavors offers a refreshing twist, making it a delightful choice for cocktail enthusiasts seeking something new.

Beyond the spirited drinks, Dirty Pretty offers a variety of non-alcoholic options, including the “Dawn Patrol” – a delightful mix of blueberry-malt, coconut, kumquat, and black tea. Even non-drinkers can enjoy a taste of adventure at this charming establishment.

A Culinary Voyage

Executive Chef Alex Wong leads the culinary journey at Dirty Pretty, drawing inspiration from Hawaiian culinary subcultures that have delighted patrons at the bar’s sister establishments, Fools and Horses, and Pink Rabbit. The food menu complements the adventurous cocktails, offering a range of tantalizing delights.

Rabbit Spring Rolls are an intriguing twist on a classic favorite. These savory spring rolls offer a blend of flavors that captivate the taste buds, leaving diners eager for more. The dish showcases the chef’s commitment to innovation and creativity.

For those seeking a more substantial treat, the Pork Stuffed Scallion Cake is a must-order. Combining tender pork with the delightful freshness of scallions, this dish offers a delightful burst of flavors that perfectly complements the cocktail selection.

The Captivating Atmosphere

Stepping into Dirty Pretty is like entering a world of magical ambiance. The bar’s decor effortlessly blends whimsical elements with a touch of moody sophistication. Vintage accents, combined with thoughtfully curated furniture, create an atmosphere that’s both welcoming and mysterious. Whether you’re catching up with friends or indulging in some personal time, Dirty Pretty offers the perfect setting for a captivating evening.

Conclusion

Dirty Pretty, nestled in Portland’s East Burnside Street, is a must-visit for anyone looking to embark on a captivating journey through innovative mixology and adventurous cuisine. The whimsical charm of the bar, combined with the moody ambiance, sets the stage for a night to remember. Whether you’re savoring the imaginative cocktails or indulging in the delectable dishes, Dirty Pretty is a sanctuary for those seeking an escape from everyday life.

So why not let yourself be carried away by the allure of Dirty Pretty? Gather your friends, embrace the sense of wonder, and enjoy a night of enchantment and delight at this captivating cocktail bar and kitchen.

Want to see some homes in the area?

Heavenly Creatures

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Portland is starting to see its fair share of breweries and wine bars that blow some restaurants out of the water. Heavenly Creatures is no exception. We had an incredible experience at this wine bar and bottle shop.

Opened by two of the masterminds behind St. Jack, a fine dining staple in Portland, we knew going in that this was going to be a fun and unique meal. Sommelier Joel Gunderson has a huge selection of wines by the bottle and for glass pours. If you have a favorite style of wine, they will have one here that you will love. Also, rumor has it, a collection of wonderful wine bottle is called ‘heavenly creatures’. This wine bar is living up to its name.

heavenly creatures wine selection

Chef Aaron Barnett is not one to be outdone. He updates the menu with seasonal ingredients to ensure there are numerous options to pair perfectly with any wine that you choose. We tried almost everything on the menu and while it was all delicious, there were some plates that stood above the rest. The albacore cru, which is a menu mainstay, was one of the best bites of food we have had all year. It is a must try for anyone visiting. Topped with a porcini crisp and lobster oil, it will blow you away. We also tried the white asparagus which was incredibly fresh and crisp, the chicken sandwich which is topped with a heap of salmon roe, and potato chips with camembert.

We absolutely cannot wait to go back and try everything new on this menu. It’s quickly become our favorite place to grab a glass and a bite any day of the week. You can find them at 2218 NE Broadway st. Open Monday-Saturday from 5-10pm. We hope to see you there! Want to check out their current menu? Head to their website.

Photos courtesy of Heavenly Creatures Instagram.