It’s one of those beautiful, sun-drenched Bend summer days. The Cascades are on full display, majestic with their blanket of snow. It might feel lazy but for all the activity in town.  People and their happy dogs are out walking, kayaks and canoes sit atop cars headed for a favorite lake or stretch of river, and restaurant patios are filled with patrons enjoying a leisurely lunch with friends.  Events are in full swing, too.  The elite stage Cascade Cycling Classic is underway, as is the Oregon High Desert Classics, regarded as the most prestigious Hunter-Jumper competition in the Northwest.  Pink Martini — not the cocktail but a fine group of musicians — performs Saturday night at the Les Schwab Amphitheater.  And Balloons Over Bend, a wonderful family-friendly event, launches into the air this weekend.  Now, how to fit it all in…

In a recent report Business Insider ranked Bend, Oregon in the #2 spot of Best Housing Markets for the next 5 years, with projected annualized growth of 11.7% (years 2011 to 2016). Data for the report was provided by Fiserv Case Schiller Indexes. For other top cities visit: http://www.businessinsider.com/best-housing-markets-next-5-years-2011-7#2-bend-oregon-14

The beautiful North Rim Lodge is increasingly a place where families gather for their most cherished events.  Over the holiday weekend, one of our owners hosted a wedding and reception here for family and friends.  How lovely that the evening was absolutely perfect for such a special occasion, and for dancing under the stars.