Today was a beautiful day in the city of Mannheim. One of my favorite places to sit outside and read, or write, is by the "Wasserturm." The grass there is lush, and the fountains create a soothing melody. I ended up at this spot this afternoon after walking from my flat, across the bridge over the Neckar river, and finally through Mannheim's city enter. Every few days there is an outdoor market on the "Marktplatz"-- a fitting name it seems. I passed this market earlier this afternoon during my journey to the water tower. The colors and the smells contained in this market are overwhelming, yet so pleasant to the various senses of the body. The vegetables, fruits, spices, cheeses, breads, meats, and flowers combine to create a unique sensation for the receptors located in the nose. And the colors are quite a treat for the eyes. Everywhere you look there is an apple, an artichoke, tomatoes, salami, hundreds of different cheeses-- it is truly a food lover's paradise. The various colored tents are contrasted with the red and white of the old building that stands in their background. Just walking through the market brings a smile to one's face, and a slight rumble in one's stomach.

After walking through the market, and turning a corner, the "Wasserturm" is visible in the distance. The tan and green tower stands majestically as the focal point of the bustling city. On a warm day, such as today, people flock to the lawn and the fountains to relax among the trees and water. This spot has become one of my favorite places in the city.

The ginkgo tree that I sat under today.