Usually it’s orchids, or budding twigs, or ficus trees: Plants that beautify a home but don’t require a lot of water or maintenance.  Yesterday these drying lilacs caught my eye at a property in Laurel Heights. If I knew who the stager was, I’d give him or her credit.

Then, a little later, at Dona Crowder’s beguiling Queen Anne on Masonic, I stopped in my tracks to admire this stained glass window. My wimpy cell phone camera doesn’t do it justice so check out the website here — though, trust me, this is one of those houses you must see in person. (I’d be happy to arrange a showing!) Up close and personal, the beautifully preserved wood in the (truly) light-filled home is warm and sweet as honey.

And while I’m on the subject of things stopping me in my tracks, check out this closeup of the granite atop one of the bathroom vanities at a 53 Wilder condo in Glen Park. It put me in mind of the river stones in the South Holston back home in Appalachia. Neutrals are all very nice, but it’s fun to see something with a little life in it for a change.

Finally — don’t judge me too harshly — I noticed that my outfit for tour day “matched” the decor at Travis Pacoe’s and Ron Abta’s listing on Eureka. So I snapped a selfie in the big master mirror. Not too bad!