Happily, my lack of posting lately has sprung from an absence from my computer and actually being out and about in the world. April 1st I took off for the West Side on my virgin Virgin America flight for San Francisco. Planning to get the hell out of Boston one of these days, I wanted to check out the City by the Bay as a potential future home, and a change in the weather for a few days didn’t hurt either. I had just about given up hoping that the sun still existed (luckily it reemerged in MA upon arrival home remembering that, it was, in fact spring).

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The lovely Sam was our hostest with the mostest who not only indulged the tourist in me with a trip down Lombard Street and a hike through the hood to Alamo Square, but loves two of my favorite pastimes: eating and shopping. Of special note was Monday afternoon when, with the expert help of her sister Caitie, we scoured the vintage shops of the Mission after an indulgent filling up at the Tartine Bakery where I just about died and went to heaven. During our outing I scored a bomb necklace from Minxy Boutique, a newer shop in the district with some incredible finds and a snoozing doggie in the corner. Dogs always = bonus points. For more on vintage, and other great finds in San Fran from a local, check out Caitie’s website Lady a la Mode.

Tuesday morning I had a bit of time to myself and bused all the way across town to the Legion of Honor museum for “Pulp Fashion: The art of Isabelle de Borchgrave.” An incredible exhibit by the artist and costumier, Borchgrave took inspiration from iconic portraiture to create tromp l’oeil paper and paint replicas period fashion. The website for the exhibit (linked above) has a wealth of information about the artist and her work, so if you’re in San Fran before June 5th I highly recommend hopping on the 38L and seeing it. A $5 special exhibition fee gets you in to the exhibit, which includes general admission to the rest of the museum (free to the public) and can be used at the de Young museum a few bus stops and a quick walk away in Golden Gate Park. This is a great way to spend a whole morning or afternoon, and with all the pennies you save you can buy more souvenirs.

Other highlights include, but are not limited to:

  • The Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park – The cherry blossoms were in full bloom and surrounded by immaculately pruned trees and pathways. A little oasis within a bustling park.
  • The Ferry Building Farmers Market – Fresh fruit and food stalls. Easy way to spend your morning and sample some local treats.
  • The sea lions at Pier 39 – Smelly, but adorably captivating.
  • The Painted Ladies of Alamo Square – Some guy told us none of these were where the Full House family ”lived” (actually 1709 Broderick St.). Like most of San Francisco, they’re beautiful and interesting with or without the lore.
  • In n Out Burger – Salivating just thinking about it.
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