Boston: First Impressions

View from my bedroom - watching Hermine in the distance

I made it safely to my home-away from-home for the next 23 days, and I must confess - it is glorious!

We are staying in a penthouse apartment (I've always wanted to say that...) in Cambridge. Not only are the views spectacular, but the location is perfect.

I am a five minute walk to the T (Boston's public transportation system), which takes me anywhere I desire to go.

But Boston is a very walkable city, and I find myself walking more often than not. So far, I'm averaging about 15,000 steps a day!

View from Longfellow Bridge - this will never get old!

I am a five minute walk to Longfellow Bridge, which connects Cambridge to Boston proper. The wide pedestrian sidewalk offers excellent views of the skyline, and it is only a short fifteen minutes to the other side.

For some reason, I need to prove to myself that I can live in a city again. So, I spent most of Saturday morning getting the lay of the land around the apartment. I found the local Whole Foods and purchased a few necessary items (like coffee). I felt accomplished when I managed to walk back carrying two sacks of groceries.

The Grand-Pup on our walk...

Sunday was the first day of filming, so I wanted to stay close to home. The Grand-Pup is doing great, considering she is now living in an apartment as opposed to a house - living in the city as opposed to the country - and dealing with Mimi rather than Mom and Dad. We developed a regular walking route and snuggle routine.

I ventured a bit farther on Monday.

I walked across Longfellow Bridge then turned right on Charles Street - which led me directly to the Boston Commons and Boston Public Garden.

The day was windy (thanks to Hermine) but sunny and comfortable. I enjoyed strolling through the tree-lined pathways, admiring students and families relaxing on this last day of summer.

Swan Lake at Boston Public Garden - idyllic

I can easily see myself returning to the Garden several times. Swan Lake offers several shade trees to lean against and read or write, and the park itself is wonderful for people watching.

I will definitely return to Boston Commons and take part in a Freedom Trail Tour. I understand the costumed tour guides offer a memorable experience.

Today is rather dreary, so I will probably stay close to home. After all, I still have another three weeks to explore the area.