Downtown

The autumn produce bowl: restocked, thanks to today's trip to the farmer's market.

I am a city mouse. No two ways about it. I love having neighbors, shopping options, and new places to explore. I even like the noise, perhaps because it is a result of the bustle. And I like bustle.

When we lived in St. Louis, I had a list of favorite places I would frequent [sushi restaurant, discount jewelry store, Vietnamese restaurant, creperie]. Nearly every time I went to these places, I said out loud, if not at least to myself, "This is what I love about the city--options." The city is where the opportunities abound. I know that with the advent of roads and transportation you can get almost anything you need in the suburbs or the country. But I guess I am a little bit picky on this subject...I'd rather go straight to the source.

We've been living in Jacksonville city for almost 3 months now, and I had yet to discover some of my own city gems. Jacksonville is different than other big cities I know...more spread out and very large in land mass. Other than the local goodwill down the road, I didn't have anything to brag about. That all changed this week.

Tuesday, November 18 marks the day that I had the best sandwich in my life. Now, I am aware of the enormity of this statement. I am, afterall, American. This fact single handedly ensures my sandwich eating expertise. I am still standing by my statement.

The story: I went with some friends to a little place I had heard of for a while now. It is a little French restaurant called The French Pantry. It was nothing short of INCREDIBLE. I had a chicken ciabatta sandwich, and every part of it, from the grilled chicken with the skin on, sundried tomato aoli, fresh greens, and fresh homemade bread, made this the BEST SANDWICH in my life. Oh, did I already say that? They also have incredible cakes and breads, and when you dine in you have to share a table with whomever was standing in line with you. Kind of European style. And the kicker? The place is a mere 4 minute drive from my house. A city gem, to be sure.

My second city score I found today. A friend and her daughter joined Karis and I at the main library downtown. We had heard tale that it had an awesome children's library. It was FABULOUS. 300,000 sq. ft. building. 4 stories. 15 foot Christmas trees all over every floor, each decorated in the theme of a different book. They had a huge children's section with multiple copies of all the books I was looking for (proves my point that when you go straight to the city source you find everything you are looking for). They hosted a morning full of story time, arts and crafts, dancing, and singing. And most of these activities were geared for my young toddler's age. I feel like I have a crush. A library crush.

Afterwards, we ambled outside to the park where there was a farmer's market taking place. We each bought some of the season's bounty at a decent price. It was a very small market, and we were told there is a better one just down the street. I think we'll check it out soon.

These were good finds. They were good for my future here. I am still in the "get to know you" phase of living here, and I am glad I have found some city jewels to enjoy.