Ever since high school (and college) when I’d have [crew] races on the Schuylkill, Philly has become a yearly destination. These days three of my great friends live there and now I make it well beyond boathouse row and truly get to discover the city. I have the added bonus that Kyle is an urban planner (makes for a great tour guide), Lauren loves markets as much as I do, and Hanne shares my same love of art. Every time I visit they cook up something great for me. This time we substituted our annual visit to the Amish stand (in the back left corner of) Redding Terminal Market (Philly’s version of [Baltimore’s] Lexington Market] with a trip to the Italian Market full of outdoor produce stands and little markets (where we picked up some fresh mozzarella and homemade pasta for a delicious dinner) and brunch at Sabrina’s Cafe.

We spent the afternoon in one of my favorite areas of Philly – the up and coming arts district, Northern Liberties. Art Star is a great gallery featuring many local [indie] artists (love the current show with animal screen-prints by Eleanor Grosch). I’m convinced I’m incapable of leaving the store without making a purchase. Our afternoon wasn’t officially completely until a little phyical activity at the design forward North Bowl. I may have been the big loser, but at least I got to check out some great interiors. (Thanks, tourguides!)

P.S. In case you missed it, check out the latest D*S sneak peek of Ellen Lupton and Abbott Miller’s Bolton Hill [Baltimore] home. I could totally live here!!!! (Some of you may recognize the dull version of their house from the movie Invasion).