Too Many Favorites in 5 Years

"Trust the timing of your life."  
I came across this quote as I was buried in Pinterest.  A difficult idea to digest when you are a planner and uncertainty is challenging. Whether in work or dating, I've realized timing is just that; something you can't control but you learn to trust and will be your best friend when you least expect it.  As I look back on my 5 years in the city, it's been just that.  Somewhere I never expected to live but a place that has brought me back to family, and most importantly brought me to know myself.  I've loved to explore so I thought it would be fun to recap 5 (or maybe more) of my favorite places or moments in the last 1,800 days.  

​Rose's Cafe
I am obsessed with green eggs.  Rose's is an adorable corner getaway that has become a frequent option for brunch dates with sister.  She even taught me how to make them.  On a Sunday morning when I don't want to leave my studio, I treat myself.  

Chestnut Street
If my sister hadn't lived in the 94123 block, I don't think I would have ever called the Marina home. What a fun adventure it has been to have my sister as a neighbor at a time when we hadn't lived in the same place for at least a decade.  Even better is within a few blocks or minutes, I can find wine, coffee or a view of the bridge.

​Leo's Oyster Bar
I get annoyingly giddy when I talk about Leo's and I don't even know if I like oysters.  Although, at dinner here last week, I dared to try a fried oyster on a deviled egg so that counts, right?  This restaurant is decor mecca.  The moment you step inside, you forget you are in the city and it feels like you are on a cruise ship.  It has become the inspiration for my studio as I continue to figure out ways to make my apartment a cozy getaway.  And they serve chocolate mousse in a miniature gold pineapple... what more could you want! 

Coffee Shop Photo Ops
My main motivation for deciding if I will visit a new coffee place is either the potential for an insta moment or a chance to eat Avocado toast.  The Chestnut Bakery was across the street from my apartment and sadly closed last year.  I have yet to find a Vanilla latte that meets the expectations of the 3 or 4 I would have on the weekends at that bakery.  A photo op at Jane with a chevron table + avo toast is pure bliss.  Any place with custom LED lights and I'm sold, not to mention the chocolate hazelnut donut was life changing at Mr. Holmes.  

​Pretty Drinks
In the event I am not craving a glass of bubbly, certain cocktails will do the trick when I am in need of something a little stronger than a tall stem of Rose.  Give me a Dirty martini (preferably with blue cheese stuffed olives), Strawberry Fields (I love a moment when my shoes match my drink) or a Paloma when I am feeling feisty and I am a happy girl.   

To the next however many years I call the Marina home, you've been so good to me.