When winter has just about hammered you into the ground – you know you’re all hunched over and you can’t remember what it felt like to walk outside without every inch covered – then it’s time to head south. I didn’t even need to go that far south, just to the bay area, but it was just what I needed.

Soon after landing the famous first line from The Outsiders washed over my mind. “When I stepped out into the bright sunlight from the darkness of the movie house, I had only two things on my mind: Paul Newman and a ride home…” Like Ponyboy I was also getting ready to hitch a ride, but couldn’t think of anything else but what it felt like to breathe warm sweet spring air. I think I stood there breathing in and out for a good five minutes.

Though in town for work, I also carved out time to catch up with my dear friends Tucker and Gretchen – a couple days in Berkeley followed by a couple days in San Francisco. Just what the doctor ordered! And after all that sunshine and warm weather, spa visits, good food and friends I definitely left my heart in San Francisco.

Smiling Midas

Tucker’s beautiful home designed by Julia Morgan, the architect whose work on Hearst Castle I researched for two years

Drinking bourbon and playing darts with Chris and Jay

Gorgeous shop windows in San Francisco

Eating at the bar

Olives and oranges