Most of my life has been shaped by Lake Oswego, Oregon. It’s the place that feels like home—the town where I grew up, where my husband and I started our married life, and where we raised our daughters before moving to Eastmoreland and welcoming our son. Even now, with my parents still living there, visiting Lake Oswego always feels like coming home, even if the houses have changed over the years.
On a recent trip back, we drove through some of the old neighborhoods. I wanted to share a few of the houses we saw—each one stirring memories of the lake, the people, and the life we lived there.
This one has always been one of my favorites on the lake. Its charm has stayed with me through the years.
Isn’t it quaint? It’s just around the corner from one of the homes I lived in during high school, so I used to pass it often—sometimes by car, sometimes by boat.
Across the lake you can almost make out the house I grew up in. It was a beautiful home and seeing it from the water always felt special.
So many memories gather around this lake—afternoons on the water, neighborhood walks, and familiar streets that map out our family’s story.
One house we passed was on the market in a neighborhood where we once lived with our girls. The garage was especially charming—seen from the side, it almost looked like a small guest cottage.
Little architectural details like that garage make a neighborhood feel cozy and timeless.
This former neighbor’s home is one I’ve shared before—I’ve always been enchanted by it. It remains as delightful as ever, with thoughtful landscaping and classic details.
The scent of jasmine filled the air in a few spots—such a simple pleasure. I always love that fragrance wandering through a neighborhood in bloom.
Many homes flew flags, especially with the Fourth of July near. The lake community always feels particularly festive during summer celebrations.
I enjoy drive-bys—they’re a quiet way to reconnect with places that shaped you. Still, driving through the neighborhoods where we once lived stirs a bit of homesickness. Despite that, I’m grateful for the many happy memories Lake Oswego holds for our family.
Do you ever feel homesick for neighborhoods you think of as “home”?
PS…today is the last day to get my free June Bundle when you grab my favorite essential oils + diffuser set!
More Drive Bys on The Inspired Room:
Highland Park – Dallas Drive By
Magnolia – Seattle Drive By
Queen Anne – Seattle Drive By
Queen Anne + Magnolia Drive By
Summer Drive By in Portland, Oregon
Cannon Beach Cottages Drive By
Or browse through past drive-bys in the same category on the original site.