The Conservatory of Flowers

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.

Japanese Tea Garden

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.