home sweet home

Make Your Fur Baby Right at Home by Laura DeVito

Home is where the heart is, and it may also be where you’re lovely furbaby hangs out, too. If you have a little furry creature in your home that you adore, then you may have also adapted your home a bit so it’s easier for them to get around and make them feel like they have a special place in the house. There are so many ways to incorporate elements you already have in a home to make your fur baby even more at comfortable.

Instagram via @Mod.Homes

Instagram via @Mod.Homes

Take this fireplace for example. If you have a fire place that is not operating, then this is a super cool idea to not only figure out what to do with it, but also make Fido more at home. Of course, there’s also ways to make the Dog House seem like a luxury hotel, so that way your canine has a place when it’s time for lights out. Cats also have their own ways of feeling more at home. Usually, they like to be up higher, so making something in which they can climb to the top is a great way for your feline to feel like they are king or queen of the castle. I have also known homeowners that do simple fixes like making it so the cat door actually is cut out for the cat to be able to go do their stinky business out in the garage. Ah, the ways in which we love our little furry pals

Instagram via @cafechatlheureux

Instagram via @cafechatlheureux

Whether you’re a dog or cat person (or perhaps an iguana person), there are many options for them to feel at home, and for your home to still be stylin’ and comfortable for you, too!

Happy Earth Day by Laura DeVito

Oregon Garden Earth Day


Earth Day was a hit at the Oregon Garden. It was awesome to see vendors out spreading the word on all the valuable things people can do to be more environmentally-conscious. Earth Day has been evolving since the 70s. In the 80’s it was all about the three Rs - reduce, reuse, and recycle. Schools had efforts focused on saving whales, and the even the polar bear started appearing on the radar. And, now there’s a lot happening with regards to recycling and reusing bags. Have you got your reusable bag yet? If not…stay tuned for some wonderfully flashy bags soon to arrive.


Yes, that’s me sporting a vintage Earth Day shirt!

Yes, that’s me sporting a vintage Earth Day shirt!

Sometimes it takes a bit of learning to catch-on. But, if you have a good teacher, then you’re on the right track. I remember arriving from Kansas to Oregon, and learning what it meant to recycle and what compost was about. I’m glad I had some patient roommates, because I didn’t know much about co-mingling recycling. We are lucky in the Pacific Northwest to have a lot of systems in place that champion earth-friendly efforts.

Whether you’re interested in new construction or a home that has history, there are many ways to be earth-friendly with your home. For new construction, there’s certifications like Earth Advantage, LEED, and more. I am an Earth Advantage Broker, and this means I have a deeper understanding of what it means to have an energy efficient and green home. There are reports you can also do that show home much energy your home is saving, which also may mean saving some money as well. For homes with more history, perhaps looking into adding some more energy efficient and green features is the way you may choose to go. Either way, I’m here to guide you in this journey to finding your dream home.