Ever Optimistic

"High-Five!"

Puppy Paradise

Did you ever notice that Boston is a true "dog city?" People here are passionate about their pups, and many even share their canines' affections with passersby - oh, to pet a friendly dog! And finally - total bonus - this city fares very well on the sidewalks-clear-of-dog-doo-meter. (Not so well on the clear-of-goose-poo-meter.)

Take a look at these two pooches, forever enjoying the landscape of the Bean:

Approximate Costs

I know that the Big Dig has been shaded in varying degrees of awe and controversy over the years, and I do not mean to fall on one side or the other or to fuel any fires. Although, I suppose whether or not  Boston's new, grand entrance and thoroughfares appeal to you, this link is very interesting. Follow it to learn what you can do with $20 million -- an everyday experience for most of us, I'm sure.

In the meantime, enjoy the view the from the train!

Dude!

Here is a neat piece of design from the Copley area:

This photo is looking up from a side entrance. I like how it cuts into the entire building. The pattern, too, is a very nice touch - I like that the diamond shapes inside of the tiles form an alternating pattern of the dark and light tans.

Actually, the more I look at this, the more pleasing it is. I love that it is a simple (but creative) shape that is also adorned with moderate intricacy. I am especially in awe of the proportions: notice that the rest of the building's height continues from the center line of the curvature.

And, finally, it reminds me of the half-pipes that filled the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater videogames. "Like, dude! Twenty trick combo!"

In all seriousness, though, rad points to this building - a fantastic example of the appeal of modern architecture. (And I didn't even mention the incredible windows and pillared frame yet!)

This Way to Paris

Here is a quick taste of Paris that can be found in the Back Bay. It's not an exact replica of the Metro entrances found in the land of fromage and vin, but it certainly seems to be inspired by them. Bon!

Follow the link for images of the Parisian Metro and some interesting facts. The style is called Art Nouveau, which is apparently very difficult for me to define. It predates Art Deco - but only by little. In addition to the preceding example, it includes the architecture of Gaudi. And that's really all that I know about it.

If you'd rather an informed opinion, this link defines it as a "cluster of self-consciously radical, somewhat mannered reformist chic." I prefer the quoted definition, though I do not have the aesthetic chops to back it up. However, I do know that when I look at this picture above and read that quote, I think, "Yeah, that's about right."