Jamaica Plain, MA

"A heart in the big city"

Nominated by Faith Girdler

Flowers bloom outside the botanical outdoor laboratory (Arnold Arboretum), started by Harvard University. (Credit: Faith Girdler)

Because we have all the blessings of suburbia (driveways, gardens, porches) but are still a 5 minute walk from subway to downtown Boston, I can see the glittering skyline from my cool and welcoming front porch!

I once left my car keys sticking out of my car for over 4 days; no one stole it! I also got them returned to my house — typical of my neighbors. We also help the guy next door crush his grapes and bottle his own homemade wine!

Faith Girdler poses with her German neighbors, who she has known since 1989. (Credit: Faith Girdler)