shopping...

Whether you're planning a quick trip to the farmers' market, a day at the beach, a weekend getaway to wine country, or even your daily commute, a good tote bag will help you navigate a whole host of summer activities in style. For some serious style points, though, get your carry-all bag at an indie retailer and support the local economy. Because that's how we roll in Portland. Downtown, West End Waxed canvas tote - more...

Good things happen when locally owned businesses work together. Need proof? Check out these sweet collaborations between members of Portland's indie business community. Custom-waxed cotton musette bag at Sweetpea Bicycles, $120 or $150 (loaded with awesome!) Read more about the collaboration onQueen Bee's blog. Schoolhouse Electric + Adam Arnold Images: Schoolhouse Electric 1. Adam Arnold and the Beckman Sofa more...

Food is a necessity for all living creatures. But unlike our wild counterparts, wehumans have developed complex appetites that are often based on exorbitant wants rather than pure need. We've easily created the tools necessary to satisfy our cravings. But often our modern means are not always the most economically sensible or environmentally friendly. So, in honor of Earth Day 2012 on April 22, Neighborhood Notes would like to more...

Take $15 off any massage, spa body treatment, or 
massage and treatment package! Choose from Therapeutic Massage, Hot Stone Massage, Papaya Enzyme 
+ Sea Salt Scrub, Aromatherapy Foot Soak + Polish, and Herbal Linen 
Body Wrap.

 Catalyst Massage Studio is located in the quaint Overlook neighborhood of
 North Portland. The quiet and cozy space allows you to relax, unwind, and heal body and mind.Our therapists draw from modalities such more...

Resolved to get fit in 2012? Consider indie alternatives to the fitness giants and keep the local economy healthy, too. more...

Our friends at Silicon Florist shared this lovely mashup of Portland craft and tech gadgetry. We couldn't resist sharing it. Support this prenatal business on Kickstarter and make this Portland dream a reality. According to the website, "Pledges of $20 and up are essentially pre-orders of custom veneers at a special Kickstarter-only price (saving you at least $5 off the retail price)." Learn more: www.toastmade.com more...

The only thing more varied than how we choose to celebrate the holiday season is what we choose to wear when we make merry. We asked Portland's indie boutiques to offer up their fave party dresses made locally or in the U.S., and they supplied over 40 festive frocks that will fit the bill at holiday parties of all kinds. We'd love to know which dress makes your holiday wishlist and where you intend to wear it. The Cairo more...

It’s every kid’s dream to be locked in a Toys“R”Us warehouse; it should be every parent’s nightmare. Containing just about every toy under the sun, there are currently 873 Toys“R”Us stores in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Internationally, the tally exceeds 600. The flagship store in New York City’s Times Square (complete with an indoor 60-foot Ferris wheel, a life-size Barbie dollhouse and a more...