A Guide To Making ‘The Things’ Work

or as we like to say “play more, work less”

The Happy Place Rules

Only registered guests may stay be on the property and stay the night. If you have friends or family who want to visit send us a message please get our thumbs up first. For accountability we want to know the names of everyone who enters the property.

Slip off your shoes, it’s a shoeless space. It’s much more fun to dance around with your shoes off and it keeps our floors so very happy.

Keep everyone’s pipes clean. Only waste, TP and water should go down the drains as we have a pump system that NO ONE wants to see plugged up.

No smoking inside. It’s green Oregon, we know, if you do want to light up please use your private patio and make sure all the windows to the living room are closed.

Unwind

It’s the journey that makes the memories. Enjoy the ease of a new space, community and way of life in Sellwood Moreland.

As creatives we hope to share with you a taste of the what brings joy and meaning to our lives. If our Happy Place becomes your Happy Place then we’ve done our job.

HELLO

Welcome!

Self Check In

Where we are unable to say hello in person we will send your digital passcode for your stay. Your unique number is set to unlock at 3pm on the day of checkin and 11am on checkout day.

Enter the property and turn left at the concrete path and go around house to a teal blue door. Unlock that door and then pass through till you see an orange door on the right. Now enter the same code there. Voila!

Say Hello!

Please message us your ETA on the day of check in and then again when you arrive. Kim or Francisco will greet you out front and give you a brief tour of your space.

Digital Locks

UNLOCK

Wake the keypad up by placing your palm on it and the lights will turn on.

Enter your unique code and press [ # ]

LOCK

The teal door that enters the property will automatically lock every time you close it. Feel free to leave it open or ajar while you are getting settled.

To lock your unit’s orange front door press [ # ] and hold for several seconds until you hear it lock.

If you have more than 5 attempts to unlock, the lock it will block you for a few minutes. Either wait it out or message us for assistance.

WIFI

To Plug in or Not to Plug in…THAT is the Question

WIFI

You’l find a Deco Wifi Mesh unit next to the TV, that improves WIFI speeds. ;-)

Network

The-Happy-Place

Password

snickerdoodle

THERMOSTAT

Finding the Sweet Spot

Keeping it Toasty or Chilly

Due this space’s position nestled into the earth you are really never going to need to turn on the A/C. On the hottest of days it will stay super comfortable but should you like an icebox go ahead and turn on the A/C.

The Google Nest Thermostat

THE NEST THERMOSTAT

Although it looks like a touch screen it’s really more like a side tap and swipe to change temps. On the right side of nest swipe up to raise the temperature, swipe down to lower it, and tap to confirm.

Note that it will take a few minutes for the furnace to cycle on or cycle off.

Temps are set to 67 from 8am - 10pm and 62 from 10pm to 8am. If you'd like them set differently during your stay just send us a message or manually adjust.

When you arrive in the space the motion sensor will quickly warm up the space to temp.

Windows

Love fresh air? We do too. All the windows have screens on them for ventilation. The small bedroom has a tilt turn style window. When the handle is one direction it tips out at the top or turned the other way it opens into the room.

LIGHTING

Setting a Mood

Choose Your Brightness

All the ceiling lights have the option to be as bright or moody as your vibe, you’ll find a dimmers on most of the switches.

Tipping the Lights Fantastic

There is a white remote control (by TV) that handle the freestanding lamps. So before you head to each and every light itself, save some time and distance by controlling them with the press of a button.

Outdoor Lights

Much of our outdoor lighting is on a timer until 11pm, including patio and landscape lights. The lights outside your front door will stay on from dusk til dawn and brighten with motion.

Kitchen Counter Lights

You’ll find a small remote control velcroed to the outer side of the cabinet under microwave. Pull off to make any adjustments.

ENTERTAINMENT

Time for some Netflix and Chillin’?

ROKU TV - Guest Mode

Our Roku device in set to Guest Mode which allows you to sign in to your favorite subscription channels. At the end of your stay you will be automatically signed out. It's that simple.

Roku Remote Control

Note: The secret volume control can be found on the side of remote. ;-)

VOIZ Bluetooth Speaker

BLUETOOTH

  • Press power on.

  • Cycle through options by pressing top of ring button until you hear the word ‘bluetooth’ announced.

  • Go to your device and search for bluetooth connections.

  • When you see VR80 select that.

  • Pump up the jams. We like music too so don’t worry about playing it too loud.

AUX

  • Or plug in your device using an aux cord attached to the back.

Radio

This one is pretty self explanatory but if you want to know some Portland stations to try consider these:

  • 89.5 - KMHD - Jazz

  • 91.5 - KOPB - Our NPR affiliate local news station

  • 92.3 - KGON - Classic Rock

  • 95.1 - KISN - Oldies

  • 99.5 - KWJJ - Country

  • 100.3 - KKRZ - Top 40

  • 101.9 - KINK - Contemporary Alternative

While Away the Afternoon in Conversation or Retreat

OUTDOOR SPACES

Our Private Area

We have the backyard reserved for our photo studio, events and family space. This area starts at the end of the cobblestone pathway next to your entrance.

It’s also available to rent if you want to have a family gathering, intimate event or small party.

The Front Porch

You are welcome to enjoy the spacious front porch while you are here.

There is plenty of space for an outdoor meal, a conversation corner or a gentle porch swing.

Your Private Patio

We created a fun little covered patio space to enjoy a glass of wine, cup of coffee and / or a great book. Instead of going left to the unit’s entrance head right down the flagstone path until you reach a gate. Latch is an easy reach.

Smoking is allowed on the patio but please close windows to the unit to keep smoke out.

Garden Path

You are welcome to enjoy the path and the gardens in the front yard. Snip some rosemary for a fresh scent in your space or cooking.

Please accompany children in garden.

Time for a Hot Cuppa

COFFEE + TEA

Quick Cuisinart Coffee Instructions

Enjoy hot coffee, by the cup, for up to four hours or til empty.

  • Lift out filter and internal coffee reservoir by their handles.

  • Make sure both are clean, empty and ready to use.

  • Put both back into machine.

  • Fill removable water tank to the quantity of 8oz cups you’d like to make.

  • Pop a paper filter in (for easy clean-up and stronger coffee).

  • Add 1 scoop (1 tbsp) per cup to start. To avoid overflow no more than 14 scoops or tbsp.

  • For less than 5 cups press the 1-4 button.

  • Turn the function button to ‘Brew’.

  • Press on/off button to start percolating.

  • Watch coffee meter as the tank fills up.

  • Insert coffee cup and press dispenser button.

  • Voila!

Supplies

Paper coffee filters are stored in the hammered silver pot (on the shelf above the coffee maker) for easier cleanup and stronger coffee.

Sugar is in the white pot with the bamboo lid. Splenda can be found in the cupboard to the left of the microwave.

Tea Lovers

There is an assortment of teas in the cupboard to the left of the microwave.

  • To use the electric kettle remove lid and fill with water.

  • Plug in base and set filled kettle on top.

  • Press levered button on base to start heating.

  • Seems obvious but DON’T put this kettle on the stove unless you want to buy us a new one.

DISHWASHER

Now it’s Time to Pay the Fine…

How to Run a Load of Dishes

  • Fill ‘er up. Give dishes a light rinse to remove larger food chunks but you don’t have to pre-clean them.

  • In case you missed it there is a third top rack for flatware and utensils.

  • Add 1 dishwasher tablet (from jar under sink) and slide lid until it clicks shut. (No hand soap please!)

  • Start the dishwasher

    • Press the [On/Off] button.

    • Select a cycle and desired options and press [Start/Resume].

  • Close the dishwasher door.

  • A solid red light on the floor indicates the wash cycle has begun. Success!

NOTE: You only have 4 seconds to shut the door after pressing the [Start/Resume] button. So if it doesn't start press start again and close the door more quickly.

Set Delayed Start

You can delay the start of the cycle in one hour increments up to 24 hours.

To set delay start:

  • Press the [On/Off] button.

  • Press the [+] button until the display jumps to “h:01”.

  • Press the [+] or [-] button until the displayed time corresponds with your requirements. h:01 = 1 hour delay h:24 = 24 hour delay

  • Press [Start/Resume] to activate delay start.

    To cancel delay start:

  • Press the [+] or [-] button until “h:00” is indicated on the digital display.

  • Press and hold [Start/Resume] for 3 seconds to cancel the cycle.

  • You may now start a new cycle.

  • NOTE: Your dishwasher is protected against unintentional operation. If the dishwasher door remains open for more than 4 seconds after pressing the [Start/Resume] button, the operation will be paused. Press the [Start/Resume] button again and close the dishwasher door.

Hand Wash & Dry

You’ll find a drying mat in the drawer with the hand towels in the kitchen.

MICROWAVE

When you Just Need to a Quick Warm Up

How do I get this thing open?

Check the lower right of the microwave and you’ll see a word that says ‘OPEN’ and press that. You’ll find the keypad behind the door. Surprise.

Metal cookware and bakeware, gold, silver, pewter, non-approved meat thermometers, skewers, twist ties, foil liners, such as sandwich wrappers, staples, and objects with gold or silver trim or a metallic glaze, should not be used in the microwave oven.

Exhaust Vent

Cooking? Use the vent on the microwave. To turn it on push the fan icon on the lower left of microwave.

PLUMBING

Let’s Keep Everything Moving Smoothly

Showers

The shower valve lets you pick between overhead waterfall or underhand sprayer.

TIP: Set the handheld showers as shorter showers for children.

Plumbing

Just a reminder to not flush anything besides toilet paper, waste and liquids. Our plumbing will thank you.

If a clog is created by overzealous use of toilet paper, wipes or other non-flushables you will be responsible for the plumbing visit.

Note: We have a pump system that is attached to an audible alarm if the pump is no longer able to pump liquids out.

Turn on the Fan

This unit is well sealed and we want to make sure the moisture is vented out so please do your part and turn on the bathroom vent while showering. It’s on a timer so you don’t have to remember to turn it off.

WASHING

Laundrytime

Run a Load of Wash

LOADING

  • Toss a single Tide pod (on top of dryer) directly into empty drum (not in drawer).

  • The washer can be fully loaded, but the items should not be tightly packed. The door should close easily.

OPERATION

  • Select the appropriate cycle and settings for the load.

  • Press the power button turn on the unit.

  • Turn the cycle selector ring and see the estimated cycle time, suitable wash and rinse water temperatures, final spin speed, soil level, and options for each cycle will be indicated for the cycle selected.

  • To change the settings, press the temp, spin and soil buttons to scroll to the desired settings.

  • Start the washer.

  • We don’t recommend running at night because the washer is quite loud.

Get ‘Em Dry

LOADING

  • Load items loosely.

  • If desired, place a dryer fabric softener sheet on top of the load at the beginning of the cycle.

  • For delicate or very small loads, add two or three larger items to improve tumbling action.

  • Select the appropriate cycle and settings for each load.

OPERATION

  • Press the power button turn on the unit.

  • Turn the cycle selector ring and a suitable drying temperature, dryness level and options will automatically be indicated for the cycle selected.

  • To change the drying temperature, dryness level, or drying time press the temp, dry level or dry time buttons to scroll to the desired settings.

  • Start the cycle.

Use the magnetic washer door separator after washing to allow drum to dry out.

SAFETY

Let’s Keep Everyone Safe

Outdoor Security Cameras

Because we have customers and packages arriving from time to time we have two video doorbells and three outdoor security cameras at all entry points (doors) into our property.

This is more a logistics issue than a safety one as our neighborhood is very chill. Sellwood is the kind of place where you can still take a stroll through the quiet streets in the evening. We just want to keep track of comings and goings.

Covering cameras will be cause to terminate your rental agreement and we’d hate to do that.

Fire Safety

Each bedroom has an egress exit in case of fire and the exit to the stairs is blocked. Remove screen and climb out.

You will find a small fire extinguisher under the sink for kitchen fires and a larger fire extinguisher in the furnace closet. We hope you don’t need to use them but better safe than sorry.

Smoke + Carbon Monoxide Detection

We’ve placed smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the space to alert you to any safety issues.

Emergency

Call 911

Police Non-Emergency

503-823-3333

HELP

Damage and Loss

Sh*t happens. Just let us know and we’ll figure it out together like humans. We’d prefer to deal with it while you are here than after the fact.

If you have any issues during your stay please let us know ASAP by messaging us.

Running Out of Essentials

We like to keep the The Happy Place stocked with the following so do let us know if you run low or out.

  • Toilet Paper, Napkins, Paper Towels, Coffee Filters

  • Dishwasher Tablets, Hand Soap, Shampoo, Conditioner and Body Soap

  • Olive oil, Balsamic, Salt, Pepper, Sugar, Splenda

Contact Us

We like to keep all correspondence through the platform you booked your stay on so we all have a message trail.

If you can’t reach us via messaging and it's a timely matter you can either come to our front door or call us.

Kim // 503-951-8547

Francisco // 503-951-8548

Tamaio // 503-756-7449‬

THE CAT

Our Fearless Feline…Hazel

Hazel

the top cat

Our tough-as-nails, feisty stray claimed us in 2011. Over the years she has proved to be endlessly entertaining to us, our clients and especially our neighbors.

She is an indoor / outdoor kitty cat who gets locked in around 9pm. So if you see her on the sidewalk don’t fret, she knows this corner very well.

Also, we hate to say it but resist the urge to pick her up or you will regret it.

LIKES

  • Scratches under her chin.

  • Watching you with an air of disinterest.

  • Finding anything soft and taking a nap on it.

  • Getting little pets from pedestrians.

Marsh 'Marlowe',

the chief mischief maker

Our latest addition (much to the chagrin of big sister Hazel) joined us in July 2022. He makes this house his playground and parkours around the house and over the top of Hazel whenever she comes inside.

LIKES

  • Jumping in any box.

  • Climbing in plants.

  • Watching for big sister from the window.

  • Sleeping on laps.

CHECKING OUT

‘Til Next Time

Check-out Tasks

We are often asked if there are any checkout requests. The following is super appreciated but not required as we want your exit to be as easy as your stay. ;-)

So if you are feeling helpful would you mind...

  1. Throwing all the used towels into the white-tiled shower next to the washing machine.

  2. Starting the dishwasher with any unwashed dishes. The tablets are in a blue jar under the kitchen sink. 

  3. If there are unopened or still usable food or toiletry items that you are unable to transport you can leave them on the counter or in fridge/freezer and we’ll make sure they find a good home.

Come Again

In the future, you can book directly at stayinthehappy.place and save on service fees.

Leave something behind?

Just let us know. We will send you shipping options that you can pay through Venmo. Any items found and not claimed within 30 days will be disposed of at our discretion.

Need to store your luggage for a bit?

Not a problem. We can store it on checkout day until 9pm at no additional charge. Storage over 8 hours will incur a storage fee of $25 per day.

Meet Your Cleaner

Tamaio, our 22 year old son, is dedicated to making your stay comfortable, clean and fun. We give him the full cleaning fee you paid, which is helping him with his goal of finishing college debt free. Hoping to start a fashion brand in the near future he is studying business at Portland State University.

If he did a particularly good job getting The Happy Place ready for you and you want to thank him or perhaps you left him a bit of a mess and want to apologize…here’s how.

Make his day by sending a little gratuity his way on Venmo @tamaiosalgado (7449 last 4 digits of phone).

Sh*t Happens…Here’s How You Can Clean it Up

CLEAN-UP

Cleaning Supplies

Should you have a spill and need to make quick work of it here is where you’ll find the supplies you might need.

Under Kitchen Sink

  • Comet

  • Upholstery & Rug Spot Cleaner

  • Multi-Use Spray

  • Dust pan

  • Garbage Bags

  • Fly Swatter

Closet in White Bathroom

  • Broom

  • Dry Mop