Clearly, Bostonians love fresh produce! Their newest purveyor, the Boston Public Market, opened in early August at Haymarket Station, right next to the established farmers market. Rather than compete, they create a synergy, which I hope signals big changes for our country’s food systems.

The open-air grocers’ crowd appears to be multiplying. On this Friday morning, dozens of determined customers flocked to both in search of the freshest fruits & vegetables.

Unaware of the new market’s existence and on my way to Faneuil Hall, I ran into the buzz spilling out from the Market’s Hanover Street entry. The sparkling enthusiasm drew me in and after a quick peek, I decided good ole’ Faneuil could wait. A couple of hours later, with all senses engaged, I began to learn from the vendors just how special this market really is. According to the market’s association:

“The Boston Public Market is the only locally sourced market of its kind in the United States. Everything sold at the Market is produced or originates in New England. The Market is a civic resource, educating the public about food sources, nutrition, and preparation.”

This concept resonates with me on so many levels that I believe it deserves duplication in every city across America. Locally sourced comestibles mean better quality, richer tasting food with less preservatives. The market provides local farmers with a viable outlet to meet demand. I’m cheering them on as their success in the new market will corroborate the importance of local farming.

As a concerned citizen, foodie, and advocate for a holistic approach to our health, I applaud these farmers and the Association for having the vision & perseverance to create this unique and important market.

If widely adopted, the ‘BPM’ model could revolutionize local farming, where we shop and what we eat. The demand for healthier, better quality foods continues to rise. Once you taste the difference, and experience the health benefits, it’s hard to lower your expectations. A similar market in my town will mean I have a choice over supermarket produce harvested much too early, modified for longer shelf life, and shipped hundreds of miles before my consumption.

The vendors’ pride & passion are evident at every counter. Each one with a worthy story; it’s business, and it’s personal! They make the shopping experience a treat for the eyes, belly & soul. Stillman Quality Meats is one example. Founded by life-long farmer Kate Stillman, she works with her two sons to offer farm to table, grass fed meat, poultry, hand made sausages and charcuterie.

Stow Greenhouses specializes in lilies but grow over 50 other varieties of flowers year-round. Their design studio offers creative flower arrangements for consumers and businesses. As you’ll see in the images below, there’s something for everyone at the Market. It’s 1300 miles from home in Fort Lauderdale, but there will be no trip to the northeast for me, without a pit stop at the Boston Public Market.

As a December baby, I’m used to ignoring the date of my birth, when the world’s madness hits a deafening peak around the holidays. But, in 2016 I hit the big five-o and decided that a bash was in order. A quaint venue along the New River was going to provide the pseudo Seine set (like Goldie Hawn’s in Everyone Says I Love You) for my Paris-themed party. My Pintrest board was brimming with Parisian icons and wardrobe ideas. From Coco to cakes to candelabras; I was ready! Fortunately, as it turned out, the venue manager double booked my date and I was #2.

The wisdom that comes from being alive for half a century must have finally kicked in. After hanging up the phone with the manager, instead of getting upset, I decided to go with the flow and replace the Paris-themed party with an actual trip to the City of Light! A couple of online hours later, I had booked an incredibly cheap flight to Paris… in February.

It turns out even the locals leave town this time of year so the perfect swap through HomeExchange (a lovely 3/2 apartment with a view of la Tour Eiffel) complete with a Citroen and a stocked réfrigérateur, was available. TomTom and I got behind the wheel for a crash course (no pun intended) on the most remarkable arrondissements, which I later walked with the new retro Fuji XT2. More than three thousand photos later, I am convinced that Paris is better after the crowd goes home…

In February: the trees are bare exposing the glory of French architecture from every period:  Gothic, Renaissance, Revival, Belle Epoque, Art Nouveau, Art Deco & Post Modern. The queues at museums and monuments are bearable. Chilly days are best to walk all day. Driving is possible in the city. No trip to the fashion capital of the world would be complete without a little shopping; maximum le soldes signs. Last but not least, there is always a seat available at your favorite brasserie without a long wait. In the end, I got to have my 50th bash and the best birthday present yet!