11/7/09 Zville fun, Amazing Cameron Carpenter

This was the best day--even though I didn't sleep well last night and wasn't as organized as I have been lately. I woke up tired. Instead of pushing myself, I made washing my hair (I told you it's like a pet and washing it is not fast) the focus of my morning. Then I went down for a fast breakfast.

I was hoping to chat with Dave about the recessed lighting he's putting in my bathroom, but he wasn't on time. MKate came to pick me up for a day of fun, so I left a check for Dave. I totally trust him.

First we went to Zionsville, which is a beautiful, European type village. The main streets are cobble stone and are lined with sweet, interesting shops. It was a heavenly day. One of those late fall days that combines the warmth of the sun with a fine, chill that reminds us that it isn't spring--and that we're getting a divine gift of ideal, no sweater weather.

MKate parked her fab new minivan in front of a place that we haven't been to before, a small art mall. They were having an opening and served some nice nuts and cheese. Also wine. We enjoyed looking at the jewelry but didn't see anything we wanted to buy. I thought I might find something for Em's birthday, but no. The art was pleasant without being great. Then I went back to an area reserved for the featured artist--in this case a retired art teacher. She has traveled widely and many of her painting reflect that travel. Some of her work appealed to me and I thought that Luke would like it too. I brought a print that had a fairy tale quality about it. I took a photo of a black and white that she did of a state park. She captured a magical quality of light and shadow. It would look great next to my old English fairy print. I hope that Luke likes it.

Then we went to Plums Upstairs. We just love the food and the atmosphere at Plums. We sat at the two top right up against the window. The window was open and the gorgeous fresh fall air mixed with sunshine poured in to bless us. We had our fav soup, the specialty of the house-French Tomato--just perfect. Delicious with rice and a blend of spices that made me want to close my eyes and pretend that I was in France at a street side cafe. Yummm. Also delicous French Pressed coffee and we shared a little cheese and spice dish. (ok MKate, I can't spell it)

As we enjoyed our lunch, we looked down on the cobble stone street washed in sunlight and peopled with men, women, kids, babies, dogs --all smiling in the sunshine of a perfect day. The street doesn't look American. MKate says that it reminds her of Germany and I think it looks like pictures that I've seen of France. Like being on a mini vacation.

Then we went to the Wild Birds shop. I got a heated bird bath for the winter. Linda tells me that all the animals will drink and enjoy it. Also peanuts in their shells for the squirrels.

All this and that's not counting the concert we just got home from. Cameron Carpenter rocked the house. This man is an electrifying performer.