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July 11th, 2008
We can’t stop sneezing. It’s getting to be a real hardship. From the burning eyes to the tickling-in-the-throat, we’re just not that cute with red noses. And the pockets stuffed full of snotty Kleenex don’t help our fashion cause. We’ve tried everything from Benadryl to Stinging Nettle (and then had an argument with the BF about how it doesn’t say “stinging” on the bottle, so how do we know it’s the right stuff?) and anyhoo, none of it is effective. We walk outside and our heads turn to jelly. So if you have a remedy, please, fill us in. And we’re not the only ones suffering—our dogs have allergies too! They’re sneezing just like we are, but mostly it’s the grass that gets them this time of year. If your pups are suffering from allergic skin conditions, we have an organic DERMagic Doggie Spa Kit to give away to one lucky reader (and their lucky pet!) Just forward this issue to 5 friends and CC picks@portlandpicks.com. You could bring home some real relief for Fido. See below for more info! |
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Portland Picks: |
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| 1 | Bathe Green Every summer we have the same debate with the hubby —AC or no AC? It's like that credit card commercial. New AC unit: $5,000. Not being drenched in sweat two minutes after taking a shower: priceless. Luckily, we've found a cheaper and greener alternative for keeping cool while drying off: Turkish bath towels. We found these amazingly absorbent and lightweight towels last year at Indigo Traders and have been hooked ever since. They take less room in the washer and air-dry quickly, which saves electricity and keeps the house cooler. And apparently, we're not the only geniuses in town. Indigo Trader's bath towels got so popular that they opened Indigo Bath right across the street. They carry 20 designs in every color, as well as a fabulous array of olive-oil soaps, the whole line of Dani bath products, and hand-painted Moroccan tiles. Check out Indigo Bath for beautiful, practical, and unique wedding or baby shower gifts, or join the Cool Club yourself. There are some things money can't buy, but thankfully, bathing in luxury isn't one of them. Indigo Bath |
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| 2 | Sweet & Low Life Shopping these days is generally about mass-produced, off the rack and bargain-priced, and more often than not, homes look straight out of an IKEA catalog. This is why walking into Low Life Salon fills us with such joy—finally, a place where unique and one-of-a-kind décor abound. Low Life features the work of a handful of talented artists (including the owners) whose work is intriguing, if not always practical. Our favorite is the “Log, Log,” which reminds us of a natural version of DWR’s Sapien bookshelf and would look fabulous filled with hand towels. We also love the oddly-shaped pillow sporting “F’ugly,” which might be the perfect complement to the aforementioned IKEA furniture. Spot something you like that won’t quite work in your space? Don’t be afraid to ask for custom work or invite the owners over for interior design, painting or refinishing services. While we’re not quite ready to throw ourselves over to the store’s racy “pornaments” or risqué “coinpusses,” we do like knowing that, no matter what we buy, we definitely won’t spot it anywhere else. Low Life Salon |
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| 3 | Bar None We have a friend that we love to go wine-tasting with. She has similar taste, but she always introduces us to new places. And the food she brings! Always the right amount. Always an effortless, perfect marriage of flavors and textures. Whenever she packs the picnic, other wine-tasters look on with jealous drool. Now we don’t have to leave town to get the perfect nibbles with our drinks. Two-week old Bar Avignon is the perfect place to sip a glass from their voluminous list centering on wines from the West Coast, France, Spain, and Italy. They also have a full bar, and will be debuting their cocktail list soon—check for some interesting European liqueurs. And the food! It reminds us of backpacking in Europe—without the whole icky bunk-bed hostel thing. Simple dishes: olives, roasted potatoes, panini, chilled soups, almond cake. Foods that are easy, yet go perfectly with whatever you’ve chosen. But instead of envy surrounding you, you’ll only bask in contentment. Bar Avignon |
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| 4 | Who the Heck is Greg? We don't know who he is, but we like his style. So when our ultra-cool niece graduated from college last month, we knew we had to get her something unique to fit her individuality. But what do you get a funky, fun, and fabulous chick who has it all? Our girlfriend told us to go see Greg, and she was spot on. From bags, books and cards to jewelry, soaps, candles, and even baby stuff, Greg's is a quirky little store big on personality. Greg's also has an outdoor area offering various sundries including pots, plants, and even eclectic yard decorations. With so many wonderful things to choose from—including lots of goodies from local folks like Queen Bee, Robot Candy, and Pacifica—we had a hard time choosing just one thing. So we didn’t. We bought several things for our niece, something for a friend, something for ourselves… the list goes on. Next time we need a gift for our friends or family that’s as unique and different as they are, we know just where to go. |
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| 5 | The Good Old Days Our mom always talks about how great things were in the “good old days.” Kids behaved better, things were less expensive and most importantly, meals were home-cooked. We’ve got news for Mom! We found a hot little lunch spot where home-cooked meals are done just they way mom prescribes—buttery, sugary, cheesy, heavenly! Plus, walking through the doors of Blueplate Lunch Counter and Soda Fountain is like walking onto an old-fashioned movie set, complete with silver-rimmed barstools, soda jerks and candy counter. We went the yummy mac ‘n’cheese, but know our tastebuds would have been delighted had we chosen the turkey Reuben, roast beef dip or “NW Sliders” (mini cheeseburgers). Either way, we were sure to save room for dessert. We about had the sugar sweats just looking at the menu with its three-scoop milkshakes, sundaes and floats. Plus—our Southern girls will love this—they even have sweet tea! Real, honest to goodness Georgia Sweet Tea. This side of the Mississippi! We’re sure Mom would be satisfied, and so will you! Blueplate Lunch Counter and Soda Fountain |
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| Wine of the Week: | |||
BV Coastal Riesling We’ve been going to a lot of barbecues lately, and sometimes we get stuck at the grocery store, wondering which wine to bring. So BV Coastal Riesling is always a go-to choice. Whether you’re pairing it with spicy shrimp skewers or fruit salad and crepes, it’s fruity, floral and has the most delightful honeysuckle and pear flavors. It’s not too sweet and it’s always delicious. It’s a people-pleaser… just like us! |
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| Chick Picks: | |||
| 1 | Kimo-no? Kimo-yes! When we lived alone, we never took the time to cover up post-bath. There was a lot of nakedness in those days. But now there are roomies. And they don’t really appreciate the birthday suit. So we went for this gorgeous, calf-length kimono we found at the Saturday Market, and we don’t just use it for the bath-to-bedroom jaunt. It makes us want to lounge around, drink Chardonnay and paint our toenails, ferreals. Now they’re on Etsy, so we’re stocking up, and look for them soon at cheeky b! |
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| 2 | Healthy Skincare for Fido We love our dogs—probably too much. (One friend said we’re “involved” with them… oops.) So we shop for natural products for them, just as we do for ourselves, and DERMagic has some of the best organic doggie skin- and coat-care in the biz. It heals hot spots, skin allergies, flea bites, grass fungus, and other skin ailments without chemicals or steroids. From their Peppermint and Tea Tree Oil Shampoo and Conditioner (soothes itchy skin!) to Hot Spot Lotion and Cell-Restoring Cream, you can feel good about pet care. |
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| 3 | Why Are Baby Clothes So Cute? Even those of us who don’t have kids can’t help but go gaga over tiny threads for tiny tots. And now that we have three—yes, three—prego mamas to shop for, we’ve been on a hunt for the cutest of the cute. We may have found them in BabyWit’s slippers for infants. Not only do they have the cute factor (styles include Asian-inspired golden cats, bucolic farm scenes, hipster-in-training tattoos and 50s-era space travelers), but they’re soft and designed to grow with baby, plus they’re locally made! |
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| 4 | Be a Good Gifter |
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| 5 | Just Kickin’ It We frequently fall victim to the dreaded Heel Wedgie. You know—when your pants bunch up and get caught between your foot and your shoe when you’re wearing long pants and open-back heels. We thought it was incurable, but then we found Kix by Katie. They’re lightweight fabric strips that can be applied to the back hemline of your pants, adding a little extra weight and rigidity. Genius! Our pants now hang nicely wherever we go. |
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| Event of the Week: | |||
Summer Style Sale in the Pearl Make haste to the Pearl District this weekend for the Summer Style Sale. The weather is perfect for soaking up the sun—and the savings. Plus, you’ll feel good about supporting local businesses while getting the best deals anywhere in the city. We predict fun and fashion for women, men and kids! Just follow the green balloons to save on clothing, shoes, and accessories from incredible Pearl District shops. Bonus? The Summer Style Sale lasts three days! What: Summer Style Sale in the Pearl |
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Hip Happenings: |
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| 2 | Switch Shoes’ Summer Sale Starts Now Swing on by today to see Switch shoes! The Summer Sale brings you savings of 20% off all their adorable shoes—plus take an additional 20% off of sale items. They’re open late tonight, so you can enjoy shopping, refreshments and music. Weekend sale hours: 10 am–9 pm today; 10 am–6 pm Saturday; 11 am–4 pm Sunday. What: Summer Sale at Switch shoes |
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| 3 | Admit It—You’re Curious We want to age naturally, but we’re also obsessed with our “options for enhancement”—which is why we trust Dr. Connall. He’s an expert, and he’s hosting a complimentary Plastic Surgery Seminar. You can ask questions in a relaxing environment. Attendees will receive a $50 credit toward a future consultation appointment and a 10% discount off Dr. Connall’s surgical fee. What: Free Plastic Surgery Seminar |
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| 4 | Good News at cheeky b! Cheeky b is celebrating some big events—the owner just turned 30 and she’s getting married in August! They’re sharing the fun with you by having a s-a-l-e! Save on great colors of Tano Handbags, New Roost Housewares & Summer Jewelry… basically 25% off storewide. Although not on sale, don’t forget their great selection of Sigg Bottles! What: 25% off sale at cheeky b |
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| 5 | Open House! Reflexology + Retail Therapy Enjoy music, wine, treats, gift certificates and special discounts at Chinoise Reflexology Spa’s Open House tonight! Shop beautiful jewelry, Aquisse candles, Cote Bastide products, soaps from Provence, Aura Cacia essential oils, handmade Oriental gift items, furniture from Shanghai and more. Stop in for a foot massage, and ask about package discounts, gift certificates, and how they’ve gone Green! What: Chinoise Reflexology Spa Open House |
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| 6 | Color Sense Event at Fez Studio We wonder about mineral makeup—will we look like floozies or corpses? Thankfully, Fez Studio helps us get it right. They’re holding a La Bella Donna Color Sense event—“Finding Your Pure Mineral Colors.” You’ll receive a makeup lesson and consultation with LA-based mineral expert, Stacy Fults, using the most complete mineral line on the market. Plus: Dream lashes! |
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| 7 | Bridgeport Village Summer Sidewalk Sale This is why we love Bridgeport Village! Their Second Annual Sidewalk Sale features dozens of fabulous retailers, from Anthropologie to local vendors like Lexi Dog and Urbane Zen. Greeting cards at Oblation Papers & Press will be $1 or less, and Design Within Reach will hold their largest-ever Oregon warehouse sale July 12 and 13 across from Carl Greve jewelers. What: Bridgeport Village’s Summer Sidewalk Sale |
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| 8 | Rooftop Dining With the Gilt Club The weather is right for dining al fresco, and the Gilt Club is introducing rooftop dinners atop the historic Desoto Building, across from the restaurant. Gilt Club’s chef Peter Gadd will create menus from garden items picked at the height of perfection. A specialty cocktail will be created for each menu, and some proceeds benefit the Museum of Contemporary Craft. What: Rooftop Summer Dining Series at the Gilt Club |
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| 9 | Summer Blowout at Haggis McBaggis Now through July 20, save 25% to 70% off all women's and kids’ summer shoes and sandals at Haggis McBaggis. Plus save 50% off socks, tights, apparel, toys, gifts, and more. Does it get any better than a summer blowout? How about their new Frequent Buyer Program—buy 12 pairs and the 13th pair is free! What: Summer Blowout at Haggis McBaggis |
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Not to get too preachy, but we were reading the back of our dish soap (we have some time on our hands, okay?) and it said if every American household replaced just one bottle of petroleum-based dish liquid with one bottle of vegetable-based liquid, it can save 81,000 barrels of oil. That’s a lot! We’re not good with math, but we can say that we’ve been doing our small part to save the environment. We’ve switched out dish soap, dishwasher detergent, laundry detergent and napkins (sorry—we need the full tree in our toilet paper) and it feels good. Really good. We hope you can do the same. Oh, and be our friend on MySpace! www.myspace.com/portlandpicks. xo |
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