MILO.SF

Academy of Science

2010-08-23T22:53:00.000-07:00

The Academy is my favorite place on a cold day. The aquarium rivals Monterey Bay and the steamy rain forest makes you feel like you're in Hawaii. I will miss living a few blocks away. There's nothing like it and my daughter loves the playroom. Love to the people who put it together.

Under water ballerina...

Bucket List#1 Napa Valley

2010-08-12T09:51:00.000-07:00

We recently took advantage of Napa Valley being only an hour away. It seems hundreds of miles away when you are in wine country. It was sunny, calming and the food delicious. The day was a gorgeous summer one and perfect for a picnic and wine tasting on the lush grounds of some special wineries. Napa and Sonoma are on our bucket list and will not be scratched off until we leave. There is so much to explore up there.

View of the Moma

2010-08-09T09:20:00.000-07:00

This is the lovely view from the Metreon in Yerba Buena Gardens of the Museum of Modern Art (Moma). Not bad for a movie theater view. The building is gorgeous from afar and even better inside.

I love how even this touristy movie theater has compost bins. It inspires me to compost again. I gave up after a battle with gnats, but will try again.

Clarion Alley Murals

2010-08-05T15:08:00.000-07:00

There is great deal of art in the city, and not always in the museums. This colorful alley off Valencia Street caught my eye. It was a drab alley and the artists brought some light to this part of the city. It is a unique creative outlet for some local artists and I believe the building owners had the right idea of how to deal with graffiti.

Mission Dolores

2010-08-05T15:02:00.000-07:00

This is the church door of the Mission Dolores. We were sitting below this and I almost missed the beauty of the details, until our heads turned up.

San Francisco- love to you

2010-08-05T12:07:00.001-07:00

It is time to embark on a new kind of blog. This is the first post in a new series of love for San Francisco. It is a reminder that I should be thankful for where I am in life and to try to live more in the moment. I hope you love where you are right now.

Gruyer or Sheep's Milk Brie

2009-11-19T21:47:00.000-08:00

After tasting some local cheeses last week in Napa, I looked into pictures from a Paris trip. I found the most incredible shop (pictured). It was a pungent heaven. So many classes I've never heard of and wanted to try. Locally, I like to keep my eye out for the same. Sonoma Cheese makes some wonderful California cheese as well as the Cowgirl Creamery (located in the Ferry Building).

We were sitting outside a cafe in Paris and noticed a dog waiting patiently on a motorcycle. The white haired pooch was comfortable wearing glasses. I thought that was strange. I guess you can say that French dogs are chic and bike ride, maybe they sip wine and eat a little fromage also, who knows.

Cameron Diaz Ad

2009-11-17T22:15:00.001-08:00

062609_V60_Mert&Marchus_spread3
Originally uploaded by hudson_jeans

I kind of like this ad I found on Flickr. How Madonna of Cameron Diaz. The Madonna I saw as my first concert experience at Dodger Stadium, many moons ago for the Who's That girl Tour. Go Cam.

Napa in the Fall

2009-11-12T22:05:00.000-08:00

I went to Napa (and started in Sonoma) in a limo full of girlfriends last weekend. We sipped some well crafted wines at a handful of vineyards, ate wonderful cheese with sparkling wine at Domaine Carneros and brunched at Boont Fly in Carneros.

Domaine Carneros (above)

Fall is one of the most beautiful times to visit wine country. The leaves are changing and the weather is still relatively warm. I can't wait to go back again soon and discover more gems in Napa like Goose Crossing. Lucky me, the most stunning wine region is only an hour north of San Francisco!

Vines at Goose Crossing

Kara's Cupcakes in the Marina district, San Francisco

2009-11-12T17:19:00.001-08:00

Mmmm Kara's Cupcakes

Kara's Cupcakes in the Marina district, San Francisco
Originally uploaded by beastandbean

If you're ever visiting San Francisco, Kara's are the best cupcakes in the city. I have been on a cupcake kick and they have the most delicious coconut cupcakes in my opinion. They have mini ones that keep me guilt free.

Beautiful Rose

2009-11-10T19:16:00.001-08:00

...
Originally uploaded by { andrew }

I came across this artful photograph on Flickr.
It seemed sad yet pulled me in. Enjoy!

Leopard Prints

2009-11-06T14:34:00.001-08:00

cheetah cheetah everywhere
Originally uploaded by hudson_jeans

I thought these were fun. I love a good animal print, especially in color.

As the Leaves Change

2009-10-26T21:00:00.000-07:00

As the leaves fall off the trees and the air turns crisp and chilly, I am reminded of the wonderful summer we had.

This was a great weekend in North Lake Tahoe, and yes the water is so clean you can see the rocks clearly on the lake front beaches. You are so high in elevation that 70 degrees feels like 80. I live for the warm weather when the sun heats your body, when sand gets stuck in places it shouldn't. With time change approaching I have to relish in the summer we had and prepare to plunge into the next wet season of Northern California. Lake Tahoe is quite magical when draped in snow, but the summer in my eyes, is the best.

Halloween and Chucky

2009-10-12T10:39:00.001-07:00

Fashion Week NYC
Originally uploaded by nancydowd

Halloween is right around the corner, what will you be this year (or your little one)? These Chucky dolls would make me run in the opposite direction but I thought together they look like some kind of humorous and strange evil child gang. Olivia will be a cat this year...unless I can get a hold of a chucky head.

Don't just sit there

2009-10-02T22:55:00.001-07:00

Hipster
Originally uploaded by Joel Bedford

Photo by Joel Bedford

If you're just sitting around this weekend, you'll miss out on some great music at the Hardly Strictly Blue Grass Festival in San Francisco. I went earlier this evening, and listened to Lyle Lovett croon on the Banjo stage. My little Olivia ate fresh corn on the cob and organic hot dog. She up-chucked on the way home, but had a ball eating the foot long corn stick. Go if you can!

fashion week, nyc

2009-09-29T20:16:00.001-07:00

fashion week, nyc
Originally uploaded by { andrew }

Georgia Jagger

2009-09-29T09:35:00.001-07:00

GMJ2
Originally uploaded by hudson_jeans

Georgia Jagger is the new face of Hudson Jeans, she is the daughter of Mick Jagger as you can see by the lips. Gorgeous girl, very Bridgette Bardot.

Washington Square

2009-09-28T20:22:00.001-07:00

What is it about New York. I went there last week for work and stayed in Grenwich Village, a half block from Washington Square park. It was balmy and my skinny jeans stuck to my legs as I walked throught the city in the evenings. I was constantly sweaty and slightly uncomfortable but it felt great to be warmed. I was blocks from some of the best restaurants in the city and one of my favorite neighborhoods to people watch and soak in the energy of the area. It was warm still and the city looked so green and alive. I was visiting for Fashion Coterie and loved every second of it.

Washington Square
Originally uploaded by verphotoman

Upcoming Bay Area Dance Performances

2009-09-12T12:51:00.001-07:00

Tango Dancers
Originally uploaded by -N-Root-

The dance season is coming underway and I am very excited to see some wonderful talent in the bay area in the next few months. Lines Ballet, ODC, Company C and Margaret Jenkins are a few companies that will take the stage soon in addition to SF Ballet. In the meantime, I thought this shot of tango dancers interwined is inspiring and so sensual.

A Day In California Wine Country

2009-09-11T20:22:00.000-07:00

A quick jaunt over the golden gate bridge and you reach bountiful wine country. It is my favorite way to escape...north...for sunshine, open land and fresh oxygen via the best greenery. We skipped over most of Napa, except for Domain Chandon for sparkling wine and the most beautiful grounds. I love anything covered in creeping ivy. We followed up with Alexander Valley at Geyser Peak and ended at Simi, among the most stunning tree-scaped grounds and my favorite white wines.

Crown and Crumpet

2009-09-03T21:08:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed a late afternoon tea over the weekend at the Crown and Crumpet in Ghiradelli Square, San Francisco. The square has evolved its look by adding new quaint shops to peruse, wine tasting stops and sweet places like the one we entered for high tea that had a view overlooking the bay. They had a myriad of wonderful teas to sip with dainty de-crusted finger sandwiches, crumpets with salad, and baby sized cupcakes, brownies and other sweet treats. The decor was what created the fantasy tea haven for little girls and baby showers (though I did actually see a guy in the room). It was not your grandma's tea house, and there was even a sign that said no doilies allowed. Instead they had tasteful floral prints, modern lamps and decor that was simple and creative. My little Olivia loved the plate of toy candies they placed in front of her as she sipped imaginary tea and was hyped up on sugary treats.

1938 Fashion

2009-09-01T19:59:00.001-07:00

page from 1938 fashion catalogue
Originally uploaded by juffrouwjo

I came upon this Sears and Roebuck catalog ad. How wholesome and all-American, they look like they are living the dream. I guess that is what fashion is about, feeling wonderful and expressing your ideal self.

Kisses along the water

2009-08-31T12:17:00.001-07:00

Well it's a fantastic Summer day today! I can find a funny feeling...funny as a smile...let`s kiss and enjoy Summer...
Originally uploaded by neloqua

Love this photo. No words necessary.

Ranunculus

2009-08-28T16:33:00.001-07:00

Happy Friday! Sending you a vase of fresh flowers!

Ranunculus
Originally uploaded by Craft & Creativity

I love these vibrant hues. The brighter the better. What are you up to this warm weekend? I can hear Outside Lands Festival beginning, literally through my cracked window. It is an all weekend music festival in Golden Gate Park and though I won't be there, I will hear it pretty clearly. Have a fabulous weekend!

Summer Days

2009-08-22T22:34:00.000-07:00

It feels as though summer is being squeezed out by the on coming fall and we've only had a handful of lovely beach days in San Francisco this summer.

I don't mind, I am itching to buy some new boots and embrace the new season. Maybe I've been in the gray summer days of the city and feel used to the mild air already. I wore a wool coat and scarf just today. Well, Labor Day is coming soon and that means one more search for the sun and the last taste of beach sand for Olivia, and then we'll have to sharpen our pencils and buy some note books. Our summer will come...we'll relish in it late September-October!

The Meatballs at Bar Bambino

2009-08-17T10:53:00.001-07:00

IMG_1522
Originally uploaded by ultraclay!

I have to say, Bar Bambino is my new favorite place in San Francisco. I am still dreaming of the meatballs. They were perfect. I went to dinner with a girlfriend on Friday night and tried to make the meatballs myself on Saturday. I wanted more! My meatballs were awful in comparison. Everything about Bar Bambino was delicious and well done.

Salumi bar at Bar Bambino

2009-08-17T10:50:00.001-07:00

IMG_1514
Originally uploaded by ultraclay!

Bar Bambino had the most wonderful salumi bar and the little appetizer bites like fresh tomato bruschetta were incredible. I had the most diverse plate of olives as well. This place was oh so good!

Bar Bambino, San Francisco

2009-08-17T10:48:00.001-07:00

Bar Bambino San Francisco 001
Originally uploaded by Italy in SF

The leather tether that wrapped around the napkin was a great little detail at Bar Bambino, a place in the heart of the mission district of San Francisco. And the leather covered menu was a nice touch as well. It added to the rustic quality of the food served. The interior of the tiny restaurant was anything but rustic, it was simple and chic.

Cupcakes

2009-08-17T10:35:00.001-07:00

Cupcakes
Originally uploaded by Craft & Creativity

I saw these cupcakes and they inspired me to want to bake, they were just beautiful. There are so many cupcake shops in San Francisco that you can buy one any day of the week. And not just any cupcake, the softest cake and I personally like the coconut flavored one from Kara's cupcakes. Does that take away or add to the special occasion of a cupcake?

Swan Lake at Stern Grove

2009-08-16T18:24:00.001-07:00

Ballet Nacional de Cuba
Originally uploaded by rayparnova

We went to Stern Grove festival this afternoon to see the San Francisco Ballet in all its grace take the stage at the free outdoor festival. It was the most crowded I've ever seen the festival and still was a treat to see three different pieces danced, one being Swan Lake. The dance company is beautiful to watch and the grove is like a breath of fresh air with trees surrounding you and people relaxing or taking a picnic. It was Olivia's first ballet experience and she squealed with delight after the first pause to clap. I think she liked it even with her toddler attention span. Just being outdoor and people watching was good enough for her while I was able to see supreme artists do their thing.

Dreaming of vacation

2009-08-11T09:42:00.001-07:00

Life's A Beach
Originally uploaded by robbie4455

This photo is the beach near Cancun, Mexico. It would be lovely to go somewhere tropical for a week or more. As most of you, I yearn for a vacation that doesn't include going to visit family in another part of the country. A place that has clean folded towels, maid service, good food that you don't have to cook and drinks with straws. Aaahhhh vacation. I don't think that will happen till December! Till then I have to make my own Mai Tai.

Chicken Sandwich Bento

2009-07-28T15:16:00.001-07:00

Chicken Sandwich Bento
Originally uploaded by Jason + Amanda - allergyfriendlypastries.com

I read somewhere that decorating kid bento boxes has become the all the rave in Japan, to a point of competition of whose bento is the best. It appears that the trend has hit our country as well. Any child would be excited (and adults too- at least a few I know) to open the lunch box to see this creative and seemingly easy to do, lunch. Move over sloppy joe, you've been out done!

Backyard Bliss

2009-07-27T09:50:00.001-07:00

We spent Sunday in a friend's backyard for a birthday BBQ in a suburb 20 miles from San Francisco. It was sunny and warm, unlike the city's foggy summer months. I don't mind the fog, but after more than a week of it I get tired of the grey and want sunshine! I was looking though a California Design magazine and was inspired by the back yards of some local homes. I liked the modern feel to this one, surrounded by greenery. Looks like a city deck in the woods.

wooden home balcony
Originally uploaded by stan.stauffer

Toddler Ballet Class

2009-07-25T10:59:00.001-07:00

My daughter Olivia is just 15 months and just took her first ballet class. I know some people may think I'm nuts, that she's too young, but I think not. She loves to dance at home and if you say the word dance, she starts to move. The whole experience was sweet. She wore a baby blue leotard and matching skirt, with pink and navy stripped Juicy Couture leg warmers. Olivia knew something special was about to happen, and was excited just to wear her ballet dress. Then there were the other kids dressed alike and she was in heaven. The Tutu school looked like a little girls dream land with lavender walls, bamboo floors and various tutus gracing the walls. The teacher, Miss Abby, wore pointe shoes and was dressed in black and pink ballet garb. With her encouraging smile and miles of patience and guidance, Miss Abby completed the whole ballet magic of the class. They danced to Stravinsky's Firebird in a large circle and ran around. It was a delightful Saturday morning and when we came home, she went straight to sleep for a long nap!
Stay in line, girls!
Originally uploaded by Sonic Armin

Pillows

2009-07-24T19:58:00.001-07:00

A way to add freshness to any room are colorful throw pillows. I was sitting in my living room and decided I needed to change things up. Instead of buying a new couch or rug, I went economical and bought some modern looking blue throw pillows. It changed the look of the room and added color. Easy enough to do, gentlemen. Just go to World Market or Pier One for a good selection.

home-accessories-collection
Originally uploaded by masminto354

Audrey Hepburn Wedding Picture

2009-07-21T11:20:00.001-07:00

18- audrey hepburn
Originally uploaded by fred baby

Here she is a muse for many wedding planners.

More Audrey Hepburn

2009-07-21T11:18:00.001-07:00

Audrey Hepburn
Originally uploaded by Sobibor

More Audrey Love. Classic Picture. Her beauty is simple, uncomplicated and timeless. I just love her.

Breakfast at Tiffany's Kiss

2009-07-21T11:10:00.001-07:00

It wasn't the most romantic kiss of all time, but the movie Breakfast at Tiffany's is one of my loves as is Audrey Hepburn. I have seen this film too many times to count.

Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's
Originally uploaded by classicmovieilike

Carcassonne, France

2009-07-16T15:20:00.000-07:00

Where will you travel this summer? I would be thrilled to travel to Europe this summer but can't this year. As I know a number of people find themselves saying all too often. Maybe these pictures will get you on a plane!

We visited this walled city in the south of France (Languedoc area). It is called Carcasonne and has its midevil qualities in tact. It was as if a knight were going to come around the corner atop a stallion at any second.

Fresh Organic Produce from the Ferry Building farmers market

2009-07-11T13:49:00.001-07:00

We joined a friend and her six month old son for an adventure to the Ferry Building this morning to get some fresh produce. We were also hooked into eating at and the best open air Mexican breakfast that my friend recommended. A place at the rear part of the farmers market is where Primavera had a stall. We enjoyed green chile chilaquiles, with cage free scrambled eggs, home made beans with Mexican cheese, sour cream and chunks of ripe avocado. It was spicy and delicious and I will have to go back soon. My one year old daughter Olivia tasted many types of fresh fruits today and we bought some nectarines as well as the organic peaches that were in season. She had peach juice all over her hands and face and loved it. The best way to get my little one to sit in her stroller was to keep feeding her fruit.

IMG_4401
Originally uploaded by A for Effort

The organic tomatoes pictured were beautiful. The market is also host to incredible local cheeses like peppercorn goat cheese, fresh and smoked seafood, all types of serious produce and the smell of lavender was everywhere. The inside of the Ferry Building is something to visit. There are a myriad of restaurants like the famed Slanted Door but my favorite is Mistral for a hearty French lunch. You can spend all afternoon in the specialty shops that sell wine, mushrooms, chocolates, fresh meats and cheeses, caviar, and all types of sweets. The shops are open everyday but the farmers market is Tuesday and Saturdays only. It is a foodie paradise.

The Dahlias at Ferry Building, San Francisco

2009-07-11T13:37:00.001-07:00

I picked up a fresh bouquet of gold sunflowers while at the ferry building this sunny afternoon. We breezed by many other notable blooms and my favorite were the wild dahlias. These blush colored flowers were so sweet and feminine. I was overwhelmed by the beauty and couldn't decide which to get, so I went sunflower instead.

dahlias | ferry building
Originally uploaded by nchoz

Pilates Core Work Out

2009-06-30T22:27:00.001-07:00

I must say that Pilates is excellent to tone muscles, especially the core abdomen post baby. It has been a year since Olivia was born and I just added the Mari Winsor Pilates DVD to my daily exercise. I noticed a major difference within a week and it is only a 20 minute video. Sometimes that is all I have time for at once. I can see my stomach muscles again and that makes me feel like pre-baby weight is around the corner. Very exciting. Skeptics, try it yourself! For more info on Pilates click on the link. http://www.divinecaroline.com/22176/77733-pilates-strengthen-core

Pilates com bola: controle sua ansiedade
Originally uploaded by metalifepilates

Pilates to Strengthen Your Core - DivineCaroline

2009-06-30T21:56:00.001-07:00

Pilates to Strengthen Your Core - DivineCaroline

Shared via AddThis

Please check out this link to Divine Caroline as I wrote something that was published there recently. Thanks!

Inspiration for Color

2009-06-28T00:19:00.000-07:00

I just bought a deep orange pair of high heeled strappy sandals. I am delving into color this summer and the inspiration comes from a mini vacation to San Diego at the end of May. We ended our trip in the old town of San Diego, where Mexican art is rampant and is as true as being in old town Zihuatanejo. We browsed some of the best Mexican artisan stores and soaked in the bright colors and warm feel of our neighbors to the South. It was also home to one of the best chile rellenos I've tasted that wasn't hand crafted in my grandma's kitchen. I don't think I'd do bright paint indoors, but a red door is something I love in a home. I was struck by this green door as well, Mexi shabby chic.

Small village in France

2009-06-24T10:26:00.000-07:00

I saw this couple sitting in the early evening. I thought it was a nice little snapshot into small village life in France.

The Marais

2009-06-23T22:16:00.001-07:00

Inspirational Paris...this is my favorite city in Europe for many reasons. One reason I feel this way is the beautiful store fronts that adorn the city and the many adorable cafes that you can stop for a cafe creme, beer and to people watch. These photos were taken in the Marais District mostly. I fell in love with this district immediately. It boasts quaint restaurants with fresh and rich dishes, and the little shops were so charming. It was a comforting and truly unique place to be. Each district of Paris offers something completely different, but I especially enjoyed the languid pace of that one Sunday afternoon I spent there.

Goldfinger at Dolores Park

2009-06-19T12:36:00.001-07:00

The Breakfast Club at Dolores Park, San Francisco, July 26, 2008
Originally uploaded by /\/\ichael Patric|{

Summer in the city means that movies in the park will begin. Saturday night's free feature is Goldfinger. Truck over to the Mission District to see James Bond on a giant screen. Grab a blanket or two, some of your favorite nibbles, a bottle of wine and go! Dolores Park has a nice slope that simulates stadium seating but with a well lit up backdrop of downtown and the bay bridge. Last year the fog rolled in, as did the teen angst of the Breakfast Club. We'll see what happens tomorrow night as we watch 007 in the fresh night air.

Masala Dosa

2009-06-17T10:48:00.001-07:00

dosa fillmore in San Francisco - Masala Dosa
Originally uploaded by Bonnibelle78

One of the many dosas on the menu. The dosa come in different shapes and stuffed with different ingredients. This one has cabbage, pea and carrots. The sauces are sambar, coconut and tomato chutney.

Chandelier at Dosa Restaurant

2009-06-17T10:44:00.001-07:00

Chandelier - Dosa restaurant Fillimore San Francisco
Originally uploaded by ShashiBellamkonda

The romantic chandelier at Dosa on Fillmore, a top 100 restaurant in San Francisco.

Dosa on Fillmore

2009-06-17T10:43:00.001-07:00

Dosa on Fillmore
Originally uploaded by Premshree Pillai

A few of the lovely things they have at Dosa.

Dosa on a Tuesday

2009-06-17T10:21:00.001-07:00

dosa on a monday
Originally uploaded by lcrisan

We went to dinner last night at Dosa on Fillmore. It is South Indian cuisine, which is something I am not schooled in. The restaurant was beautiful and contemporary with sleek dark wood, a communal table and many tea candles. All the lighting and wall fixtures were gorgoeus. The first thing I saw was a chandelier that looked like a lit up feathery animal or sea anemone. It was very romantic and a wonderful place for a date. And yes we date, even though Cain and I are married. I would go back for the libations alone. I ordered the bowler, which had pisco, mango and lime. It tickled my tongue, literally.

If you've never had a dosa before, it is the Indian version of a crepe that you dab with special sauces. Mine was filled with peas and home made farm cheese. It was delicious. We also had chile rubbed prawns and chicken korma with coconut aromatic rice. My senses were alive after the meal. I will go back with anyone that wants to go because It was unbelievably tasty. The restaurant is also a green establishment from the ground up to the food on the table. One more reason to go back, as if you need one.

ODC Ballet

2009-06-15T10:35:00.001-07:00

Ballet Dancer & Ballet Jumps: Grande Jeté "Ballerina in Flight" - Dance Portraits in Columbus, Ohio
Originally uploaded by WB - CMH

This weekend I took a tough ballet class from Augusta Moore at ODC Commmons www.odcdance.org in San Francisco. Having not a lot of time lately for dance, I was not in top shape but managed to power through the inventive class armed with my technique. Moore's modern style and inspiring choreography kept me pointing my toes through and through. I survived with just a little muscle soreness and came out with better posture. Can't wait to dance again! It is my crack.

I came across a funny article recently. The members of the ODC Dance Company challenged Cal Berkeley's athletic department to a toe to toe competition to see who is more fit, the dancers or the athletes. The dancers went against members of the men's water polo, volleyball, soccer, track & field, golf and swimming teams. This is the third year that they've competed and I really want to attend next year to see it myself. It turns out that ODC beat CAL again this year when it came to strength and agility. And I see why, their bodies are fine tuned artistic and athletic machines.

Travel This Summer

2009-06-12T21:33:00.000-07:00

June is almost half way over, have you planned your summer travels yet? I know that more Americans are taking local trips by car this summer, but I also know there are amazing deals to Europe if you can snag them up quickly. My current favorite site is Travelzoo. I just saw a deal to Spain roundtrip from SFO to Madrid for under $300. The dollar is down, but Europe is still a possibility with cheap flights to help take some of the load off. I don't know about you but I am itching for a trip to Spain or Italy. I went two summers ago to France for three weeks and the memories were worth the bad exchange rate.

Nice, France

Sulle punte

2009-06-11T10:01:00.001-07:00

Would rather be dancing!

Sulle punte
Originally uploaded by MarcoBer

I hate Yoga

2009-06-10T21:55:00.000-07:00

I just got back from a yoga class and realize that I have a love hate relationship with the practice. Everytime the teacher said PLANK, I wanted to plank him on the head and leave...but I didn't. And DOWNWARD DOG was like an insult that I hated to hear. Why the torture then? For one, I have 10 pounds to get back to pre baby weight and for two, I like stretching and balancing, just not on my wrists. The whole thing tests my patience but relaxes me at the same time. How is that possible?! I get through class with images of my lean body coming back and images of walking down a beach again soon. Here are the images that come to mind. Some days I love yoga but most days it is just hard! I guess that is why I will go back next week, to see if it gets easier.

Tartine Bakery and the sky

2009-06-07T22:12:00.000-07:00

I hope you had a beautiful weekend. I spent the weekend out doors for the most part. I would normally go to the Union Street festival and make my way through the crowds of happy people, but instead opted for a Mission trek. After seven years in the city, I finally sampled Tartine Bakery & Cafe. I have read the reviews and seen the endless lines and decided it was time. I didn't go for a sweet but tried a decadent slice of quiche with Swiss chard and squash. The crust was perfect, the texture lovely and eggs can be quite creepy for this texture conscious person at times. The quiche was satisfying but I must go back for a sweet next time or a croissant. Ok, it is true, I adore Tartine and can't wait to go back. Another thing that was delicious this weekend was the weather and the skyline.

Land's End

2009-06-05T23:01:00.000-07:00

It was a warm and sunny June afternoon. When visibility is as clear as it was today and the clouds are sparse, I like to head to Land's End. It is breathtaking on a cold and dense day in a romantic yet haunting way. That was not the case today as summer has officially begun and we got a little feel of it. Despite the sun, I was dressed in layers as I toddled with my 13 month old newbie walker on the path that overlooks the bay and the Pacific. With a little one, the new parking lot means easy access and a calm stroll on a marked path. You can go off road a half mile or so into the walk as the path turns into a dirt and rock meandering hiking trail that has sweeping views of the deep blue bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. Needless to say, we turned around at that point. The cliffside and rocky terrain was too interesting for a young curious baby to steer straight. We took in the rays, the Golden Gate views and my little girl, of course, tried to eat the gravel.

Photos by Lena Watanabe

The Conservatory of Flowers

2009-06-03T21:39:00.000-07:00

I just got back from a quick jaunt to San Diego for some R & R, but more on that later...
One of my favorite places to visit lives in the Golden Gate Park, the Conservatory of Flowers. I went recently with a friend and her lovely daughter. We found a lily pad that was larger than Maisie in one of the micro-climated rooms. It can hold a man of about three hundred pounds. I urge you to go seek out the Conservatory of Flowers when you need a reminder of deep heat, it can warm the soul and you to the bone. Aside from the wonder inside, the grounds are spectacular. When in bloom, stop by the gem of a garden of Dahlias that is politely hidden to the right of the conservatory. To me, dahlias are proof that there is a god out there. They are perfection in soil.

Where will you be this weekend?

2009-05-29T23:26:00.000-07:00

Pictures courtesy of Jamille Griss

Mexico On My Mind

2009-05-29T23:13:00.000-07:00

As I get ready to create new memories by the beach, I think of one of the best sunsets to come to mind. This one lives in Troncones Beach, Mexico. Simple, raw and a bit secluded. I used to think sunsets are only beautiful and on fire when they are near smog, but I may be wrong here.

Pictures courtesy of Jamille Griss

Art In Napa Valley

2009-05-28T22:24:00.000-07:00

As I sit here hungry with an empty fridge I think what else can feed my being? Art can feed the soul. And...I have salt and vinegar chips.

Japanese Tea Garden

2009-05-27T09:13:00.000-07:00

San Francisco is known to be a little bit of a progressive city, yet there is also a zen feeling to it. When I've had enough concrete and mini coopers, I am thankful for the parks around town. If you've never been to the Japanese Tea garden you should visit. It is one of the most charming gardens and makes you feel transported to another part of the planet for a while. Bits of Memoirs of a Geisha was filmed in its lush space, which is located in the Golden Gate Park. I have only been during the weekdays when the tourists are few but I can imagine it would be less zen and more circus otherwise. There are little trails to amble and creeks that calm with a melodious hum. I like to stop at the outdoor cafe for hot tea and cookies before I leave the serenity of its surroundings.

Beauty is Grey

2009-05-26T00:05:00.000-07:00

Being from a sunny place, it took me a year to stop shivering when I moved to San Francisco seven years ago. It didn't help that I only owned open toe shoes, but that is besides the point. Now I generally don't feel the cold, and have grown to appreciate a beautiful grey day. There is something mystical about how the blanket of fog hugs the city.

Memorial Weekend Post

2009-05-25T23:20:00.000-07:00

The fog was so thick on Sunday morning. I could barely see the bay from my living room window. After Chinese breakfast of Dim Sum at Yet Wah in the Richmond District, we decided to break away from the cold and drive north. We drove to upper Napa Vally and found that the sun broke right after Sausalito, sipped a little white wine and had solid relaxing Sunday.