These are a few of my favorite things

Every year Oprah reveals her “favorite things” list to an audience of self-help-reading, home-at-3pm-tv-watching followers who ooh and ahhh appropriately in honor. Well I have a list too, and while I may not have throngs of devoted fans (or one devoted fan), for whatever its worth here is my official 2007 (and very late) favorite things, places, or events.

1. Queen Bee Bags
Founded back in 1996 these little bags have taken over the Rose City. They can be found in stores such as Powell's, but it's always more enjoyable to go to their store in person. The bags are made of sustainable materials and no two bags are ever alike. Interested? Check out their website: http://www.queenbee-creations.com/ . I just purchased my first bag (the Truckette) and I absolutely love it. They have everything from totes, to diaper bags, to messenger bags. Help support a local Portland artist - and hey - if you love bags as much as me this is definitely for you!



2. Ladybug Organic Coffee

This little coffee shop is less than a 10 minute walk away from home and Bryce and I love it! It's become a recent favorite amongst my friends as well. The people that work there are much friendlier than Starbucks and take the time to lean against the counter and chat with everyone a little bit. The atmoshpere is relaxed and often full with UP students studying and overcaffeinating themselves. In addition, the coffee shop as a weeknight game night. People can bring their board game of choice (or choose from the large selection available) and get competitve with your neighbors over a game of Scrabble!

3. Green Dragon on Belmont

The Green Dragon is the latest brewery to hit Portland, and it is becoming a favorite. They currently have a unique guest tap selection, but look for the first batch of their own beer in January. The food is fantastic, I am obsessed with the Mediterranean bread salad in all of its olive oil soaked goodness. PLUS, there is a glass of chalks and the tables are chalkboards, so you can doodle freely and, on a whim, express love to your dining partner, or write a limerick (if that is more your style) without the guilt of publicly defacing property.

4. Bridge to Bridge Run

If you enjoy a challenge (and the satisfaction of devouring pizza and beer as a reward at the very end) then this is the run for you! The 10k run is held annually amongst the April showers and is a great way to start off your Sunday morning. The most challenging part is running up to the Fremont Bridge - but the view of Portland and the city is incredible once you get there.


5. The Portland Trailblazers


I know - I'm amazed this made my list as well! Call it the influence of my husband - but these guys are incredible! They are a young team and just a joy to watch. All of the bad seeds are gone (well - there's still one left) but they are a team that fights until the very last second of every game. They went on a huge winning streak, have the Rookie of the Year (and the newest All Star) Mr. Brandon Roy, and the biggest fan club in the city of Portland.

We're rooting for them - so should you!