"As thorough as they come" is how I would describe Matt of Hopkins Home Inspections.  I have had the opportunity to work with Matt on a handful of home inspections recently and I have been nothing but impressed.  Having been present for over 150 home inspections during the last 8 years I have seen a lot.  I have seen a number of different reports, explanations for why things should be repaired or not, styles for interpreting building codes, etc.  In all that time I would say Matt Hopkins has not only proven to be the most thorough and diligent inspector I have worked with, but his reports (reporting format) and his client-side demeanor has been the best.  He draws context for clients appropriately, understands the trades better than I would expect and is spot on professional from the moment he pulls up to the home to the moment he carries his equipment away.  Matt Hopkins of Hopkins Home Inspections has my strongest recommendation for a home inspector here in Portland.  All my clients have been incredibly happy with his service.

First time to Laurehurst Market this Friday.   Yes it took a year for us to get there, but we got there nonetheless.  The Steak Frites was my choice, the Halibut (on special) was my wife's.  Both were spot on!  I have had better fries, but not too many steaks have beat the one I wolfed down last night.  The service was great, the ambiance was nice (nothing too fancy, but open with open beamed ceilings (not like Nostrana, but still open beamed) and a nice bar space to the west of the dining area.  I liked the meat locker/case when you walk in... a nice tough given that they pride themselves on serving carnivores.

The views folks, the views!!!!  The location is epic, affording Portlanders and visitors alike the opportunity to look across the SE/NE and out towards the west hills and downtown without obstruction.  The reservoirs are really quite beautiful and the park's size is fantastic.  Go here if you like to run, hike or just take in the views... for sports (tennis, basketball, etc.) this isn't the first place I would recommend.   ALSO home to the annual Soap Box Derby!!!!  and home to multiple bicycle races, zoo bombing activities ( zoobombing) and longboarding (skareboards) activities.  The park needs to upgrade its playground equipment and touch up some other aspect of their trails, but overall it is a fantastic park that will always stand among the best in Portland.

Most folks don't need much of a push to head to Toro Bravo... whether it is your first time or 30th, the burger is amazing!!!  I left thinking about it and woke up the next day doing the same.  It is so so so good.  The sauce, toppings, quality of the meat, etc. are all spot on!  As most folks know the ambinace, location and overall menu are fantastic.  The sangria is pretty solid... ***could be a bit stronger. ;)  Can't wait to go back!

Killer location, nearby restaurants for making a night out of it.. but the acustics at the Wonder Ballroom or average.  What should be noted is that average acustics is everywhere in Portland.  I saw a show here not long ago and I thought the sound mixing/board was managed "ok"... not great.... so combine average acustics with an average sound man and welll you leave saying.... "that was ok"

Kettlemans....

Loved it!!!  Took our 3 1/2 year old on Saturday.  Great movie, good times all around!

Numbers my man, numbers... get your neighbors on board, call the landlord, call the police collectively.

Phillips.  We have used them for 4 years and like what we have seen for support.  They are local, they don't lease the equipment and their contracts are fair.  Go local!

Shadowland landscape did our paver patio as well as a couple clients/friends.  They are good and reasonable.  Good luck!