front steps of my 'hood

I tend to get up obnoxiously early.

Even on the weekends.

So this morning at 6am I took Colbie for a stroll and I couldn't help notice the lovely things people place on their front steps. Like these little guys...not sure what they are. Not roses...more like maybe a cactus? Either way, it lured me in for a shot.

Then I saw these pots and was inspired by the colorful simplicity of the look. Even the mismatched pots seems to flow together to create a cute, homey look. I am terrible at container gardening, so I am always in awe of those who make it seem effortless.

Nothing says "Welcome!" like a red front door. Unless you put pots of plants in front of it. Then it says, "Do not come in!" But in a nice way. Or at least a pretty way.

Yes. Those are Crocs. Used as planters. Not my favorite look, but these folks get points for thinking outside the box. About Crocs.

Nothing incredibly extraordinary about this one, but I do like the flow and the differentiation of leaf color and pot size. Sort of guides your eye along the ascent to the porch. Or something like that.

Pretty sure I was Asian in another life. I LOVE asian-inspired decor, and these Buddha statues guarding the front door make my heart pitter-patter. Or want to drink tea and meditate. Either way, a good feeling.

That's it for that 'journey through my 'hood.' There will be many more of these to come, as I have a pretty darn inspiring 'hood.

And I walk a lot.

Hope your Sunday is peaceful and inspiring as well!

local sweet spot: findlay market

I fell a little bit more in love with Cincinnati after a recent trip to the much heard about farmer's market downtown -- Findlay Market.

Despite being located smack in the middle of an area of town even my ever-confident husband seemed nervous about leaving his Honda parked in, this mecca of fresh, delicious, and creative wares evoked various memories in my head. Good, wholesome travel memories of places like Pike Place Public Market in Seattle and Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco, albeit on a much smaller scale.

So much fresh produce, but not only that: beer garden, bakeries, flowers, crafts...my little blogger head was spinning!

I couldn't resist indulging in an amazing freshly baked belgium waffle piled high with mouthwatering strawberries and whipped cream and a cup of gelato had me drooling before the poor guy served it to me. That good.

No counting calories on the weekend!

We even bought Colbie some organic dog treats. Spoiled hound.

Here are a few of the other things I couldn't resist purchasing...

Blackberries! This photo does not even begin to capture the plump deliciousness of these blackberries. YUM.

The colors were unlike what you find at your local grocer. Prices were better, too!

Had to snag a few ears of bicolor corn to throw in a pot that night.

Wherever it is you live in this world, I assure that somewhere near you is a farmer's market you will fall in love with. Find it. Buy local! :o)