Hidden Treasures

On an evening stroll last night, I wove between streets just a couple over from my own. I found rows of brick homes - row houses, brownstones; whatever you'd like to call them. They're lovely. Steep steps up to front doors, balconies, ornate architectural features I don't know the names of.

Large shade trees planted long ago between sidewalk and curb, but also in the middle of the street. There were several streets with a long island running the length in the middle, almost like a miniature version of the Commonwealth Avenue Mall. There's a lane to drive in one direction, with parking on the right side, and with trees, flower beds, and the occasional small fountain on the left. On the other side of the trees, another lane of traffic, in the opposite direction. Above, a fountain and some people visiting on the stoop.
And the alleys - Susan you'd love them. Very similar to the movie Rear Window. Most people have back balconies. It's not clear how much the apartments have been divided. In my building, the apartments are quite small, so that there is a front apartment and a back one. But in these buildings, I get the impression that each floor may be its own apartment, from front to back.
The back balconies are primarily seen by your neighbors, rather than passers-by. They're filled with potted plants and flowers. There's additional parking back here, too (again, I'm so glad to be carless). There are rooftop trees and lounge chairs. And brick walks - no cement. It was quiet and calm, and so enjoyable to walk through these alleys and streets. And though I didn't get any good photos of it, there's also a neighborhood park in this area. There's a walking corridor that isn't on my maps. There's a sign for it on the main street, but it's tucked away nicely. There is a playground with a jungle gym and swings, basketball and tennis courts, a grassy area, an enclosed leash-free dog area, and several communal gardens. It's a perfect place for neighbors to come together, bring their kids, play with their dogs, and enjoy the summer evenings. I saw a man playing catch with his son, several old guys visiting on a stoop, a guy sitting with his baby daughter on a blanket. This area is well-used without being crowded. And for all of the people there, it wasn't loud. It was idyllic. They could film a movie here. In this very park. On this very street.