Tips to Celebrate Thanksgiving in Oakland 

Thanksgiving in OaklandTraveling to family or friends’ homes, watching football, turkey, turkey trots, long walks, and after dinner naps, this is what Thanksgiving is all about! While you may not be traveling to grandmother’s house this year, you can keep up many holiday traditions in your Oakland apartment this year!

Spending the Holiday with Family and Friends via Zoom

Keep it simple by setting a time to eat your meal with family and friends! Why not do a family recipe swap and try a few new dishes remotely. 

Football

Maybe your yearly pickup game is canceled, but the NFL’s three games are part of our Thanksgiving tradition and are still on schedule. Here is the current lineup.

The Star of the Day – The Turkey

If you have never actually cooked a turkey, do not worry, these restaurants and markets near your Oakland apartment are serving Thanksgiving for takeout or delivery.

Whole Foods at 231 Bay Place has pre-cooked turkey, sides, and desserts available for pick up!

The Fifth Quarter Charcuterie has some great options for sides or alternatives to a turkey dinner including some out of this world, freshly made sausages. Check out their hours on their website.

 Belcampo’s  is offering turkeys from their California farm through William Sonoma this year. They have in-store pickups available. They are organic, non-GMO, and steroid-/antibiotic-free, and come in four sizes.

Turkey Trot

Before you feast, you trot by putting on your running gear and take part in a local turkey trot! This year there won’t be any turkeys trotting down the streets of Oakland, but you can still get out and run. Sign up for Oakland’s Virtual Turkey Trot online. 

Take a Walk

Joaquin Miller Park and Sequoia Bayview Trail Trailhead are both great places for a pre or after-dinner walk.

Take a Nap 

The tryptophan in turkey makes you tired, so a nice nap on Thanksgiving Day in your waterfront Orion apartment is another way to keep up your Thanksgiving traditions.

 

Fun Ways to Celebrate Halloween in Oakland 

Halloween in OaklandAmericans LOVE Halloween! Each year we spend over $9 Billion on costumes, candy, and decorations! But this year we are dealing with a very real boogeyman, the coronavirus and things will be a bit different this year.

Like many of us, you might be looking for safe ways to celebrate Halloween in Oakland! Well, you are in luck because this is the ultimate list of fun things to do this year for Halloween!

Decorate Your Oakland Apartment

Decorating your Oakland apartment can get you in the spirit this holiday! But you don’t have to spend a lot of money to turn your home into a haunted paradise. 

Stretchy cobwebs or strips of black and orange construction paper can make inexpensive garland for a mantel or for over a doorway! 

Replace candles with black ones and place them on candle sticks with spooky spiders made from pipe cleaners.

Paint pumpkins with colorful chalk paint and write boo-tiful Halloween wishes on them!

Add spiders, witches, and other Halloween decorations to a wreath for your front door! 

Purchase an inexpensive Halloween themed welcome mat outside your door. Additionally, you can pick up some Halloween themed dish cloths to instantly add whimsy to your Orion apartment’s kitchen.

Connect with Friends and Family Online

Organize a Halloween Zoom party for friends and family! Celebrate by dressing in costumes and playing Halloween bingo or sharing scary ghost stories.

Go on a Halloween Home Tour

Many people are going all out decorating for Halloween this year, so why not take a ride in your car looking for the best Halloween decorations near your Oakland apartment.

Create Some Halloween Treats

Just because you aren’t going trick-or-treating doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself to something sweet! 

Popcorn balls are easy to make and have some of our Halloween favorite flavors: Reeses pieces, candy corn, white chocolate, and pretzels. Get the recipe here.

Graveyard, tombstone brownies are delicious and fun to make! Use a boxed brownie mixed, yogurt covered pretzels and mini marshmallows to create this hauntingly delicious Halloween treat! Get the recipe here.

These fun and safe ideas will make celebrating Halloween in Oakland this year Spooktacular!

 

Ways to Stay Healthy in Your Oakland Apartment

Ways to Stay Healthy in Your Oakland ApartmentAre you looking for ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle without leaving your Oakland apartment?

Here is a list of some of the top ways to maintain your workout regime to stay on a healthy track.

YouTube Your Workout

There are plenty of exercise videos on YouTube, and the best thing is, they are free. Go to YouTube and search for the type of workout you would like or type in home exercise to find one that motivates you. Once you have found one that you like, hit play and start that workout!

Grab Some Equipment

Designate a small corner in your apartment as a workout area.  Purchase some weights and turn on the TV and start pumping some reps. If you don’t have any weights, you can use water jugs or laundry detergent bottles filled with water.

Another great piece of equipment to help you stay healthy is a stability ball. Exercising with a stability ball can help strengthen your muscles and your core without making noise that might bother a neighbor.

Get Your Namaste On

Pull out a mat, turn on some soothing music and burn some incense. Yoga is a great mind and body workout. It requires minimal space, about the size of your mat, and can be easily altered based on your mood.

Avoid Mindless Snacking

Just because you choose to stay in your apartment instead of going out to exercise does not mean that it is an excuse to be a couch potato. Stock your cabinets with healthy snacks and fill a bowl with fresh, seasonal fruit. Drinking water will also help curb your appetite and keep your mind off unhealthy snacks.

There are a lot of ways to stay healthy in your Oakland Apartment at Orion that will still leave you feeling fit and fabulous. 

 

The Best Back to School Supplies for 2020

back to school suppliesIt is that time of year again! Time to say goodbye to the leisurely days of summer to return to school! For many, that means juggling multiple tasks and studying from your Oakland apartment.

This can be stressful and that is why we have put together a list of the top back school supplies for 2020. 

Paper Planner

Despite the fact that much of our studying has gone completely digital, students of all ages are turning to paper notebooks and planners! There is something satisfying about writing down tasks, dates, and notes and then crossing them off when they are complete that a digital planner just doesn’t fulfill.

These Ban.do planners are a colorful and popular option to consider.

Wireless Headphones

With so many people working, schooling, and studying at home, it can be distracting. Purchasing a good set of wireless headphones can be a lifesaver. Target has several options including these wireless Bluetooth headphones by Marshall Major.

3-Ring Binders

Binders are a great way to keep organized! Select a sturdy binder with a pocket for each subject. You can easily add lined paper, tests, and assignments to the binder! Don’t forget the three-hole punch! Both can be purchased at Staples.

Note Taking Tools

Did you know that you better retain information if you write it down? It is true; that is why pens, pencils, erasers, and highlighters remain as a must-have back to school supply! Taking notes also keeps your hands busy, meaning you will not be distracted with other apps or text messages.

Laptop and Printer

A laptop and printer are essential tools for studying from your Oakland apartment. This link highlights some of the best laptops for the 2020 school year.  

A printer is another must-have for the school year. This article by TechRadar includes the features and prices of printers that are recommended for students. You can also use the wireless printing station at your Orion apartment in Oakland.

These must-have supplies will make studying in your Oakland apartment less stressful and more productive.

 

Oakland’s Best Ice Cream Shops

apartments in Oakland

Nowadays, you can find an artisanal-something-or-other ice cream shop on practically every corner in Oakland. In a city where it’s almost always ice cream weather, we’re positively crawling with liquid nitrogen innovators committed to serving the smoothest scoops, Mexican-style paleta masters who’ve introduced us to flavors like soursop and burnt milk, and gelato and ice cream makers who have dreamt up hundreds of melt-in-your-mouth combos. 

While the multitude of options is great for everyone, narrowing down your favorite is no easy task.

That is why we’ve done the legwork of sifting through Oakland’s best ice cream shops and chose six of the best places to grab a decadent scoop, sundae, popsicle, or sorbet.

Little Giant Ice Cream

1951 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, CA 94612

Website

Enjoy traditional rich and creamy ice cream spun in house using high-quality ingredients.  Their vegan options include a variety of delicious flavors.

The Sweet Booth

388 9th St #155, Oakland, CA 94607

Located in Chinatown, this cozy counter-serve ice cream shop serves snow ice, class ice cream, and smoothies.

Fentons Creamery

4226 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, CA 94611

Website

One look at the menu of this retro ice cream parlor and you will be screaming “I Scream, You Scream, Let’s Go Get Some Ice Cream”. They offer both traditional and creative flavors and are known for their large sundaes and cones.

Humphry Slocombe

2335 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612

Website

Available for counter service and delivery, Humphry Slocombe is known for its unusual flavors and use of high-end ingredients. 

Check out these flavors: 

  • Blue Bottle Vietnamese Coffee
  • Hibiscus Beet Sorbet
  • McEvoy Olive Oil
  • Elvis (the Fat Years)
  • Carrot Mango Sorbet

Smitten Ice Cream

5800 College Avenue Oakland, Oakland, CA 94618

Website

One look and you will be smitten with this hip liquid-nitrogen ice cream shop that uses local ingredients using liquid nitrogen.

United Paleteria y Neveria

4768 International Blvd #5210, Oakland, CA 94601

Website

You will be saying “Por Favor, Give Me More” when you visit United Paleteria y Nevaria on International Boulevard! This popular, locally-owned shop serves traditional style Mexican inspired ice cream and frozen delights.

As the weather heats up near your waterfront Orion apartment in Oakland, get out and try these great ice cream shops!

Ice Cream Shops in Oakland

Nowadays, you can find an artisanal-something-or-other ice cream shop in Oakland. In a city where it’s almost always ice cream weather, we’re positively crawling with liquid nitrogen innovators committed to serving the smoothest scoops, Mexican-style paleta masters who’ve introduced us to flavors like soursop and burnt milk, and gelato and ice cream makers who have dreamt up hundreds of melt-in-your-mouth combos. 

While the multitude of options is great for everyone, narrowing down your favorite is no easy task.

That is why we’ve done the legwork of sifting through Oakland’s best ice cream shops and chose six of the best places to grab a decadent scoop, sundae, popsicle, or sorbet.

Little Giant Ice Cream

1951 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, CA 94612

Website

Enjoy traditional rich and creamy ice cream spun in house using high-quality ingredients.  Their vegan options include a variety of delicious flavors.

The Sweet Booth

388 9th St #155, Oakland, CA 94607

Located in Chinatown, this cozy counter-serve ice cream shop serves snow ice, class ice cream, and smoothies.

Fentons Creamery

4226 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, CA 94611

Website

One look at the menu of this retro ice cream parlor and you will be screaming “I Scream, You Scream, Let’s Go Get Some Ice Cream”. They offer both traditional and creative flavors and are known for their large sundaes and cones.

Humphry Slocombe

2335 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612

Website

Available for counter service and delivery, Humphry Slocombe is known for its unusual flavors and use of high-end ingredients. 

Check out these flavors: 

  • Blue Bottle Vietnamese Coffee
  • Hibiscus Beet Sorbet
  • McEvoy Olive Oil
  • Elvis (the Fat Years)
  • Carrot Mango Sorbet

Smitten Ice Cream

5800 College Avenue Oakland, Oakland, CA 94618

Website

One look and you will be smitten with this hip liquid-nitrogen ice cream shop that uses local ingredients using liquid nitrogen.

United Paleteria y Neveria

4768 International Blvd #5210, Oakland, CA 94601

Website

You will be saying “Por Favor, Give Me More” when you visit United Paleteria y Nevaria on International Boulevard! This popular, locally-owned shop serves traditional style Mexican inspired ice cream and frozen delights.

As the weather heats up near your waterfront Orion apartment in Oakland, get out and try these great ice cream shops!

Shake up Your Space With Trending Apartment Decor

Trending Apartment Decor, Summer Decor, Trendy Decor, Apartment Decor, Minimal Decor

The energy of your environment is greatly affected by its decor. Looking to spruce up your space here at Orion to reflect your unique tastes? Time to try out trending apartment decor picks! Read on to find out more about stylish trends that are sure to be a hit in the home.

 

Minimal Decor for the Organized Mind

 

For those seeking a clean environment and calm state of mind, modern minimal interior design is the way to go. Featuring simple lines, geometric patterns, and fashionable function, minimal decor never loses its cool and matches with almost anything. Check out this helpful article to help you brainstorm how you can implement this timeless design trend in your own apartment!

 

Summer Decor to Ring in the Season With Spirit

 

As the weather heats up and the spring blooms begin to flourish, your apartment could do with a similarly sunny makeover! Summer decor for the apartment is sure to bring a smile to your face. Common trends for this season include floral patterns, nautical themes, and natural materials like jute and wood. Need more inspiration? This list is sure to inspire you through your search for summer decor!

 

Get Trending Apartment Decor Delivered to Your Door

 

Now more than ever, it’s easy to get trending apartment decor into your home. There are plenty of online retailers that deliver straight to your door! For fans of modern minimal decor, All Modern is the place to go for sleek furnishings, like this dining table. Summer decor stans can revel in the picks over at Etsy! This lemon-themed wall garland would look adorable over your front doorway. 

 

Try out these or other trending apartment decor tips here at Orion! How are you planning on spicing up your space? Let us know in the comments!

Navigating the Work From Home Landscape

Working Remotely, Work From Home, Working From Home, Remote Work, Home Office

Made the switch to working remotely recently? Experiencing a change in the workplace environment can be jarring. However, with the right tools and mindset, you can turn the situation around to work in your favor. Here are some ways you can tackle the work from home journey while living here at Orion!

 

Set Aside Space for a Home Office

 

Working from home allows for a lot more freedom, but some freedoms are more helpful than others. Instead of trying to work from your bed and stifling your productivity, allow your creative mind to flow and make your own home office! Having a dedicated workspace can help you feel more on task when you’re getting your daily duties done. You can set up shop by a bright window for a dose of sunshine, or on your private patio or balcony for a breath of fresh air!

 

Stick to a Set Remote Work Schedule

 

Now that you’re not clocking in anymore, it can be easy to lose track of time. Keep yourself in check with a curated remote work schedule. The most important thing to remember is to wake up and end your days at the same time. That way, your mind and body get into a groove! Here are some more suggestions on how to organize your routine while working from home.

 

Remember to Take Healthy Breaks

 

The extra hours in the day without your work commute may tempt you to fill in the gaps with even more work. Instead, try and remember that you are human and deserve the time to recharge. Taking healthy breaks will keep you more motivated in the long term! Try doing yoga poses in between tasks, taking your full lunch hour, and practicing the 20-20-20 rule with your screens.

 

With these tips, working from home should be a breeze! How are you planning on tackling the change to remote work? Let us know in the comments!

Get Involved While Living in Oakland

online community, social networking, community resources

As a new resident of the Orion community, you’ve also become a new resident of the city of Oakland, CA! There are plenty of ways to get involved with your neighborhood from the comfort of your home. Here are some ideas on how to be an active citizen while living in Oakland!

 

Virtually Check Out Your Local Library in Oakland

 

Out of all the underrated public resources in a community, there’s something to be said about local libraries. The library provides a quiet place to study, work, and learn no matter your stance in life. The Oakland Public Library system conveniently offers a wide variety of online resources for you to explore too! From countless e-books, research guides, and test prep help, there’s so much within reach with your library card. Visit the Oakland Public Library website here to find out more!

 

Order Food Delivery in Oakland From a Tasty Local Eatery

 

The local food scene in Oakland is as culturally diverse as the people in it! No matter what mood you’re in, Oakland’s multicultural offerings are sure to satisfy. For authentic Japanese flavors, check out Marufuku Ramen. They are offering food delivery in Oakland, making it easy to have savory ramen soup sent to your apartment. Check out their menu options here!

 

Get Tuned in to Local News in Oakland

 

You also become an involved citizen by knowing what’s the scoop! Mainstream news media rarely covers city-specifics, so reading and watching local news in Oakland is key to stay informed. The locally-run East Bay Times is a great news source to support. You can check out headline stories on their website, or subscribe to their digital and print versions here

 

No matter what you decide to do to get involved, living in Oakland actively starts with small changes. How are you planning on giving back while home? Let us know in the comments!

Get a New Start by Spring Cleaning

Spring Cleaning, Cleaning Games for Kids, Green Cleaning, Cleaning Hacks, DIY Cleaning Products

Springtime is here! That means the flowers are in bloom, the weather is warming, and the natural world begins its rejuvenation. If your apartment here at Orion could use a similar refresh, spring cleaning is in order. Tidying up for the season clears away built-up clutter from earlier in the year, making space both in physical as well as mental spaces. Here are some tips on how to make your spring cleaning session productive and fun!

 

Set Up Cleaning Games for Kids

 

Living with little ones, while incredibly rewarding, can lead to challenging messes to tackle. You can get your children on board with doing their part with cleaning games for kids! By adding an element of fun to the cleaning process, kids develop a healthier mindset around tidying up down the line. Plus, parents who get involved have a chance to get back in touch with their inner child!

 

Get Crafty With DIY Cleaners

 

The overall message of springtime is to shake off the old to make way for the new. This mantra can apply to the cleaning products you use too! Chances are, keeping up with your current cleaning product arsenal is cutting into your household budget. Not only do most DIY cleaners cost pennies on the dollar to create, but it’s fun to experiment with making cleaning products with common cleaning supplies you might already have laying around. For example, this citrus-scented all-purpose spray uses just five ingredients and is perfect for beginners to make.

 

Easy Green Cleaning Hacks

 

The best part about using homemade products is that, more often than not, they’re a lot more eco-friendly than their store-bought counterparts. Name brand household cleaners can contain harsh chemicals and give off strong smells, which can harm small children and pets. The naturally cleaning powerhouses from the likes of baking soda, vinegar, and borax get the job done while lessening their harm on the earth. Check out this list of green cleaning hacks and get inspired with ideas on how to use natural cleansers around your whole household!

 

You’ll find that once you get your spring cleaning session underway, your apartment will have a more welcoming and serene feel throughout every room! How are you planning to tackle the clutter? Let us know in the comments!