We’re entering week three of calling our cozy one bedroom basement suite in the Sellwood neighborhood home. With our house torn up across town, living out of suitcases in close quarters with no kitchen or television the most unexpected thing is happening. I’m relaxed. We’re having fun. Free from house projects, yard work, cleaning and meal preparations, our time is spent exploring the neighborhood, eating together at the food cartsand local restaurants, reading books, playing games and making lots of art.

Our host family upstairs has been extremely welcoming. Dave and Silke are the type of people you can’t help but like instantly upon meeting – friendly, energetic and thoughtful. Generously inviting us up for dinner, backyard campfires and leaving treats of fresh picked plums, pumpkin bread and tiny toys on our doorstep. And babysitting. Sigh. I’m going to miss our airbnbhome sweet temporary home.

The kids are becoming attached to The Sellwood House as well. With an art shop, library, toy store and park within a few blocks there’s no shortage of activities and excursions to keep busy.

Favorite features of our tiny abode…

Backyard tree house:

Reading perch:

Meanwhile, back at the ranch… {progress!}