R. D. Steeves Imports -- 140 W. Main St., Yamhill, OR  (503-662-3999)
   Antiques, antiques and more antiques.  He receives truckloads every month that fills this old barn 'til the sides burst.  Antique dealers take a run down to Yamhill to buy their inventory and return to Portland to sell it at twice and three times the price.  I bought a dresser and a small wardrobe for $170.  If you like old furniture and are on a budget (or are just cost-conscious), you'll love this place.

J. C. Penney -- Washington Square, Clackamas Town Center, Vancouver Mall
   My family affectionately calls it Jacque Penne. For years I shunned the store's inventory as being inferior to Nordstrom's.  However, for the last 5 years it has been my store of choice.  As a strictly casual dresser, I find the quality of their merchandise almost unbeatable.  I have sweats that still look as good today as they did 5 years ago -- and I wear them a lot!!  And the prices are so reasonable that I feel like I've robbed the store when I leave. You don't have to spend a lot to look good.

The Garden Corner -- 21550 SW 108th Ave., Tualatin (503-885-1934)
   Looking to plant the perfect garden?  Look no further than the Garden Corner for  the healthiest and widest selection of garden flora available in the area. It's an offshoot of famous Al's Nursery in Woodburn -- the people responsible for all those beautiful hanging baskets around the area.  Best to have some idea of what you want before you go or the selection can be overwhelming.  The owner and his staff is very helpful if you just can't make a decision.

Yamhill's Gallery --  901 N. Brutscher St., Suite F,  Newberg  (503-538-1311)
   If you happen to be going to the Coast sometime or want to take a drive in the country, head through Newberg and be sure to stop at Yamhill's Gallery for a real treat. (It's in the red brick building directly north of Fred Meyer's.)  You will be sure to find just the right gift for someone or the right knick-knack to fill that empty space on your coffee table.  The store is jam-packed with wonderful things to behold. Simply browsing will take up an hour or more of your time, so don't be in a hurry.

Lumber Liquidators  -- 2245 NW Nicolai St., Portland  (503-221-4944)
   Thinks of adding hardwood floors to your home, Lumber Liquidators has hardwood flooring at prices even Home Depot can't compete with.

Burlington Coat Factory -- Various locations.
   If you thought that Burlington Coat Factory was just for coats, think again.  They also have a fantastic collection of things for the home at great prices along with discount clothing of all types for men, women and children.  Warning! You can only return something for a store credit.  I'm not crazy about this policy, but I can almost always find something else that I need or want.

Assistance League Consignment Shop -- 12320 SW 1st, Beaverton
   One of the nicer consignments shops in the area.  It's a great place to find a wwedding or shower gift, or to find fine items for entertaining -- dishes, glassware, serving bowls -- at a fraction of their original cost.  There are occasional great furniture finds as well.  Ask for Beth, the co-manager and a good friend, to get the best deal.

Backyard Bird Shop --  Various Locations
   I've watched this store grow from one small location with a nice array of merchandise to seven locations stuffed with everything for the bird lover and more.  These stores put a whole new twist on the phrase, "It's for the birds!!"

Indigo Traders -- 7881 SW Capitol Hwy., Portland  (503-780-2422)
   If you're looking for something exotic, Indigo Traders carries a collection of fine Mediterranean textiles, French-milled and olive oil soaps, Moroccan tea services and other interesting items for the home.