Post 4 – Wonder. How did you cultivate a sense of wonder in your life this year? (Author: Jeffrey Davis)

I have been living in Buffalo for the last 4.5 years, after being away from my hometown for nearly 10 years.  About 11 months ago, I moved to a house located in the heart of the Elmwood Village.  For those not familiar, Elmwood Village, simply put, is the best neighborhood in the world.  In all seriousness, it was named one of America’s 10 Great Neighborhoods by the American Planning Association, and I, for one, whole-heartedly agree with the assessment.

Even though I’ve rediscovered the city of Buffalo in ways I never knew growing up, it has been the past year living in Elmwood Village that I find myself–daily–looking around and thinking (even saying aloud sometimes) “I’m so thankful to live where I live. I love my neighborhood.”  Few other places could you find world-class architecture and museums minutes from local boutiques, restaurants, all nestled amongst some of the most gorgeous old housing stock (full of character) you will find. It also boasts farmers markets, festivals at every turn, an engaged community of neighbors, and offers some of the best people watching there is.

Beyond Elmwood Village, there are many times I have found myself somewhere in the city of Buffalo in awe of what is around me.  Be it taking in the mighty Albright Knox Art Museum, running around Delaware Park, kayaking on Lake Erie on a beautiful summer day, or being on Hertel Avenue, Virginia Place or Main Street and feeling like I am somewhere just as cool, vibrant and interesting as anywhere in New York City.

I love my neighborhood, I love my city, and every day there is a reminder of why that is so.  It’s there – you just need to see it.  No matter where you live.