The colors of flowers seem to be a bit more brilliant in London than elsewhere. Perhaps it is because their surroundings are a bit sodden and gray, especially on a autumn Sunday morning stroll through the Columbia Road flower market while the sun struggles to break its way through a thick cloud cover. I have never seen such an efficient collection of so many beautiful flowers and plants in one place. And everything seems to be “3 for a fiver!” Beyond the market and along the streets of London, waterfalls of petunias dangling above a pub’s entrance and unexpected sunflowers sprouting from a second story window box enjoy the last moments of summer sun and bring a wry smile to my face.

--- Columbia Road flower market and all the boutique shops along the side ---

--- cat sunbathing on car who got lots of attention, but did not care ---

--- a sampling of the goods ---

--- my takeaway from the market ---