Hello friends and neighbors!

We have had quite the mild winter here in Portland. It seems everywhere I look leaves are budding out and - gasp - flowers are starting to bloom. Spring is just around the corner, and here in Portland, that means our yards are waking up — and calling for a little attention. Whether you're prepping your home to list, freshening up after a long winter, or simply want to enjoy your outdoor space this season, this month's newsletter is all about curb appeal. I've rounded up some of my favorite local yard care resources, including a spotlight on a fantastic local landscaping company that's been transforming outdoor spaces all across our community.

Read on...

PENDING IN 5 DAYS

5601 SE Byron Drive

Milwaukie, OR 97267

3 beds | 2 baths 1690 sqft

$555,000

Pride of ownership shines in this meticulously maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home at the top of the hill in desirable Milwaukie! 

Recent updates bring peace of mind and modern comfort. 

NEW 2022: sump pump and fence.

NEW in 2024: composite roof with transferable 50-year warranty and high-efficiency furnace. 

UPDATED 2025: laundry room.

Other highlights:

Tastefully updated kitchen with cork flooring that flows seamlessly into the family room, two fireplaces (gas and wood-burning),  two fireplaces, primary ensuite with walk-in shower, and  recessed lighting with dimmers throughout the home. 

Step outside to your private, fully fenced backyard with protected greenspace behind your home.

Don't miss this opportunity to own a well-cared-for home with major systems already updated!

🌱 The Case for Going Native (and Going Electric)

Beyond a tidy yard, there's a real opportunity this season to think about landscaping with a longer-term lens. Planting Oregon native species — like red flowering currant, camas, or sword fern — means lower water needs, less maintenance over time, and a big boost for local pollinators and wildlife. 

If you're in the market for a new landscaper or ready to swap out your own equipment, it's worth asking about battery-powered alternatives to gas-powered mowers and leaf blowers, which generate surprising amounts of air and noise pollution. 

Luckily, making eco-conscious choices just got a little easier: the Lake Oswego Sustainability Network maintains an up-to-date list of landscapers who prioritize sustainable practices, from native planting to electric equipment. You can browse their vetted list at losn.org/landscaper-list.

🌿 Local Spotlight: Quality Tree Service & Landscape Maintenance

This month I want to introduce you to Quality Tree Service & Landscape Maintenance LLC — a locally owned, fully licensed, bonded, insured, and Oregon-certified company that's been serving the Portland metro area since 1997.
Whether you need a tree trimmed, a stump removed, or a full yard transformation, these good folks do it all. Their tree services cover everything from pruning and planting to high climbing, cabling, and fire mitigation. On the landscaping side, they handle garden installation, land clearing, bark dusting, path installation, and shrub and hedge pruning. They also offer hardscape work — think retaining walls, patios, decks, fences, and water features — so if you're dreaming of a complete outdoor overhaul, they're a one-stop shop.
And if an emergency pops up? They're available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. (Ask me how I know this...).

It's not too early to make a plan for Spring clean-up!
(503) 222-1438

qualitytsl@comcast.net

goqtsl.com

🎬 Studio Ghibli Film Festival @ OMSI

Through March 2
A winter favorite featuring screenings of beloved Studio Ghibli films at OMSI—perfect for cozy evenings and family outings.

🎥 Cascade Festival of African Films
February 6 – March 7
Part of Portland’s Black History Month programming, this longstanding festival presents films by African filmmakers celebrating culture and storytelling.

🧧 Lunar New Year Celebrations
February (various dates)
Community celebrations across Portland featuring lanterns, cultural performances, food, and festivities, including events at Lan Su Chinese Garden and other venues.

🎨 The Art of Mark Rothko @ Portland Art Museum
February (various dates)
A major exhibition exploring Mark Rothko’s powerful use of color and form—an excellent winter museum visit.

🎹 Dueling Pianos @ Barrel Room PDX
Friday and Saturday nights thru March 28
An unforgettable evening filled with laughter, music, and interactive excitement as talented dueling pianists bring your favorite songs to life.

What are you into this month? I am always interested in hearing about fun stuff around our beloved PDX and I love a good book recommendation or song/album suggestion. 😊

As always, feel free to reach out to me anytime with questions or just to catch up. I'm here to help in any way I can! 

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