I Love San Francisco

Posted November 2nd, 2008 by MomGrind

Where do you live?

Why are you there? Is it by full choice (because you love it there), or did work or family ties dictate your choice to live there?

These tweets got me thinking. I came to the San Francisco Bay Area because of work. My husband got a job offer in the Silicon Valley so we moved here. It’s been almost ten years since we came here, and I’m slowly realizing that I love San Francisco and would be heartbroken if we ever had to leave.

The photo above was taken on a bright, sunny Saturday morning. The kids were on a play date so my husband and I had a few hours to ourselves. We had lunch at The Slanted Door followed by a leisurely stroll around the Ferry Building and the Embarcadero. There was a bustling Farmer’s Market, and street vendors selling art. The air was fresh and cool. The city was absolutely gorgeous.

San Francisco is a beautiful city, but most of all, I enjoy the people. I like that the people here are so diverse. I enjoy the fact that there are so many ethnicities and cultures here. That people generally mind their own business and don’t try to force their opinions down each other’s throat. I like seeing gays holding hands openly without fear of being harassed. I like that the city is almost 100% smoke-free. I like that people jog and bike and exercise and take care of themselves. I like that people tend to smile at each other rather than frown.

Of course, there are things that I don’t like about San Francisco.

Not surprisingly, I don’t like the fog:

San Francisco covered in a blanket of fog, as seen from Sausalito

I actually don’t mind the cool weather because it’s nice that it is so mild year-round. I find it pleasant. But the fog tends to be annoying. I don’t like the fact that the city goes to sleep early. Most restaurants and cafes close by 10pm. Even bars and clubs tend to close by midnight. Unlike Tel Aviv or New York, San Francisco is a city that sleeps. A lot.

What about you? What do you like most about where you live and what do you like least? If you prefer not to disclose your exact location on the vast internet, maybe you can share your country, or state, of residence.

—
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95 Responses to: “I Love San Francisco”

Kirsten responds:
Posted: November 2nd, 2008 at 10:13 pm →

I LOVE San Francisco. We used to live there, but my husband’s work took us down to Southern California. I miss it up there!!!
Avani-Mehta responds:
Posted: November 2nd, 2008 at 10:13 pm →

I visited San Fransisco a few months back. We simply couldn’t stay indoors there. It indeed is a beautiful place to stay.

I live @ Daytona Beach, Florida. Love the place. It’s weather is quite similar to my hometown (Mumbai, India). The beach is amazing, people are pleasant and there is rarely any traffic. Plus you get to see lot of greenery here all year round. Two things I don’t like about the place – lack of public transport and lesser number of direct flights from other states in US.
Maya responds:
Posted: November 2nd, 2008 at 10:20 pm →

I moved to Seattle a few months ago and really love it here so far. I grew up amidst the hustle of a city – Seattle is perfect for me. The energy of a city when I need it and quiet of nature when I need some peace. The trails and the parks here are just amazing – perfect for family outings with the dogs and the kids.
Am yet to see what is so depressing about the weather here …. it is Nov and not too wet/cold at all!
Carla responds:
Posted: November 2nd, 2008 at 11:32 pm →

I live in Kensington, Ca – about 20 minutes from San Francisco (mostly through streets and over a bridge or two depending on which route you take) at this time of night (10:24PM). Most people don’t know where it is, but its right in the Berkeley hills tucked away from just about everything, except beautiful residential architecture, redwood and eucalyptus trees, hills, a few bus lines, narrow streets, deer, and generally very friendly neighbors. On clear days, the views of the bay and sunset are downright stunning. Looking over at Mount Tam and the orange glow of the evening sun is one of the things that makes life here perfect.

We are going to be moving to Portland sometime in 2009 and I will miss this part of the East Bay dearly – especially considering I was born and raised in the Bay Area.
Bamboo Forest responds:
Posted: November 2nd, 2008 at 11:45 pm →

San Francisco is indeed a beautiful city. Where I live – there is a lot of diversity too. I love diversity.
Evelyn Lim responds:
Posted: November 2nd, 2008 at 11:48 pm →

I last visited San Francisco like 6-7 years ago. I visited a relative there, while en-route to Alaska. Your picture here brought back nice memories!

I definitely like where I live. The weather may be humid the whole year round. But Singapore is truly a beautiful island, which is also safe and clean. There are so many conveniences here that it is easy to take them for granted. As much as I like it here, I love my travels too! I cannot not take a vacation each year. SF is a place I have bookmarked to go back to, for a visit again for sure!
Shamelle -TheEnhanceLife responds:
Posted: November 2nd, 2008 at 11:50 pm →

I am sure most of my readers will be surprised to know that I live in Sri Lanka(Colombo)- The tiny island under India ;-0)
Well, I was born in Sri Lanka and thus my family is also there. and yes.. I like the country.
I have been to a few European countries and yet to visit USA!
Christina Narciso responds:
Posted: November 2nd, 2008 at 11:50 pm →

I just moved back to Hawaii and I absolutely love it! My favorite part of Hawaii is the rainbows, beaches, and FOOD!! I don’t like the vog (volcanic ash) it looks like fog, and the traffic is ridiculous! Worse than the mainland!
Mike Goad responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 12:39 am →

We live in rural Arkansas… and it is tons different from San Francisco. We ended up here after the Navy because of work and because that’s where my wife’s family had moved just before we met.

What I like most about it is that, after more than half my life here, it is home — just under 5 acres that we own outright…, except for the property taxes, which is manageable. What I like about it least is the summers — when it get hot and humid and there isn’t a breath of wind. That’s one of the times we try to go somewhere else. And Arkansas gives us a good central home base location to travel from. In September, we went to Wisconsin. In February, we’ll be heading to south Texas. In April or May, we’ll be going to Virginia and Maryland and then, in July, we’ll be making another trip to Yellowstone, where we’re planning to hookup with one of Karen’s brothers and his family — even though he teaches 3 miles down the road and the kids are spending part of the evening with us tonight.

The whole stat of Arkansas is smoke free in all businesses with employees.

We haven’t been to San Fransisco in 28 years. We spent part of a Memorial Day there in 1980 when I was stationed in Idaho.

My first duty station after we got married was at Mare Island in 1972, where I was a student for 6 months. We met in Milwaukee while I was a student at Great Lakes Naval Training Center and she was volunteer in the USO. Two weeks after that we were engaged and 5 weeks after that were married. We didn’t have a car, so our trip to Vallejo started out by bus to Houston, when my family lived and then to Arkansas — in the summer! Karen was pregnant so she stayed with her family until I could get there, report in and do everything I could to get housing. Once I had an apartment, she flew into San Fransisco, when a couple of old navy friends that she had known from her time at the USO drove me down in van that belong to one of them and after a quick drive around town we were back in Vallejo.

It didn’t take took long to get credit and, soon, we were the proud owners of a 1972 Yellow Vega — the station wagon. We had been walking a lot around Vallejo, but once we got the car, we were out exploring every weekend. We made several trips down to San Fransisco and started into what became a life long passion – hiking. It even snowed while we were living in Vallejo. The landlady had to make sure we knew it had snowed.

Imagine the looks Karen got in 1972 — 7 1/2 months pregnant, long-straight hair, wearing a long poncho made out of yarn…, hiking up to the top of Mount Tamalpais. Our daughter was born at Travis Air Force Base — at the same time many of the released POW were being treated there.

Since we could only do stuff on the weekends, we weren’t there long enough to do much more than sample the Bay Area. Fisherman’s Wharf, Ghirardelli Square, China Town, Lombard Street, Coit Tower…, too soon it was over and time to move on to Idaho for more training.
Kelly@SHE-POWER responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 1:38 am →

I have always wanted to go to San Francisco. Something about the city calls to me, like I’d fit in very well there. Though being a night person, this closing by 10pm crap would drive me nuts!

I live just outside of Sydney, Australia by the sea and nestled into mountains and I do love it here. It’s a little bit more sedate than I am used to having spent most of my adult years in the inner city of Sydney. But it offers an awesome lifestyle of beauty, comfort and security. Parts of it are multicultural, which is one of the things I loved most about where I used to live in Coogee, Sydney. But it is not as diverse as I would like and a bit too conservative for my sensibilities. But my family live here, its’ an expansive and easy place to raise a family and the beaches and coastline are divine. I am near a huge national park and when the excitement of the city calls it is only an hour away (not far in a country as large as Australia – some suburbs of Sydney take just as long to get to the city as me).

And though I whinge about Sydney in winter I know most of us Aussies can’t really complain about the weather. We have temperatures ranging from 15-39 degrees celcius for probably ten months of the year, and even in winter the sky is clear and blue and the middle of the day is warm enough for you to lie fully clothed on the sand at the beach and soak in some rays.

Yes, Sydney is a piece of heaven, I think.

Kelly
Wesley responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 1:39 am →

Why did I think you lived in New York City?
Barbara Swafford responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 1:54 am →

HI Vered – San Francisco is a beautiful city. I especially love the skyline at night. Having lived there for nearly eight years, I enjoyed exploring all of the haunts as well as the tourist attractions. Now I live in Oregon and enjoy the clean air, the mountains, and the sunny skies. The occasional snow can being out a few crazy drivers, but on those days I try to stay off the roads and enjoy the beauty of it.
Dominique responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 2:34 am →

I live in Singapore and have lived in Sydney and Melbourne before. I haven’t been to USA before and hope to be able to travel there one day.
Avital responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 3:03 am →

I live right in the center of Dublin, Ireland. A short stroll away from Trinity College, Grafton street and not far from O’Connell street. I live very close to the river Liffey and it’s beautiful. Everything is in a walking distance from our sweet modern apartment and the Irish people are friendly and full of real Irish spirit – which is wonderful – it really is!!! They are also friendly and are very eager to help. Looking forlorn for a few seconds would attract many “Are you lost, son/love”? in the most charming of all accents. I promise.

But… I don’t like it here. It is cold and rainy – year round (”not too bad”, as the Irish would say – but YEAR ROUND). I am used to being fried by the Israeli sun, surrounded by my friends and family and living without the sun, my friends and family, makes me sad.

We have moved here about 3 months after our wedding – following an unexpected and unsought after job offer which has stirred our lives. We are living Dublin, soon. Very soon. Heading towards the silicon valley in California. We are going to be even farther away from our family and friends but at least we are claiming back the sun we are missing.
Scott McIntyre responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 4:02 am →

I’ve been to San Francisco twice in my life, Vered- and I love it too.

In fact, along with Florence in Italy, I rate it my joint favorite city in the world.

I live on the west coast of Scotland, about 30 miles south west of Glasgow. I’m 15 minutes’ drive from the coast.

The town I live in gives me the best of both worlds… it’s rural and surrounded by countryside and greenery and still near to the hubub of the city.

Glasgow is a city that is often at the top of ‘UK cities to visit lists’. It has a vibrant cultural life and shopping, nightlife, restaurants are amongst the best in Europe.

I’ve included an official tourist board link to the area which I hope might give you a better idea (http://guide.visitscotland.com/vs/guide/5,en,SCH1/objectId,RGN717vs,curr,GBP,season,at1,selectedEntry,home/home.html)
MommyNamedApril responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 6:33 am →

We live just (barely) north of Orlando in Florida. There are things I really like about living here, but I can’t say I love it. I like being close to family. I like that we can be outdoors pretty much all year round. And I like that there are tons of things for kids to do in the area. But none of that translates to love. I’m hoping in a few years when Hubs is done with school and we’re finished having kids that we can relocate to an area with seasons, more community and less tourists
MommyNamedApril responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 6:36 am →

p.s. love the picture of you! it’s so obvious you’re just plain HAPPY in that moment.
big hair envy responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 7:06 am →

It’s SO cool that so many of your blog friends hail from other countries!

I was born and raised in rural Virginia. I tried the “big city” once, and subdivision life just wasn’t for me. We are now back in the “country”, and loving every minute of it. Hubby and I both enjoy visiting other areas, but it’s always good to get back to our little piece of the world:)
Mia responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 7:19 am →

Vered~

We live in Colorado. We absolutely love it here. The weather change, the scenery of the mountains, the varied landscapes! Not everyone in Colorado skis…just in case anyone wondered. Personally, I don’t like to be cold (which begs the question why don’t I live in a perpetually sunny place). And it’s not always snowing, it’s usually the mountain areas that the news is talking about, we live in the Denver Metro area. There’s a good combination of diversity, college, university, suburban and downtown life. If you’re looking for it, you can find it…I guess like most places though.

As for San Francisco, I haven’t been in some time and my husband hasn’t been at all. We talk about visiting sometime next year, knowing that we will love it. We hope to see the beauty that you do.
zoe responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 8:05 am →

I live in Indiana. I used to absolutely hate it, but felt tied here by job and family, and a partner who I didn’t think would ever leave. Aging parents and good friends would make a great job offer somehwere else a tough decision. Good friends are hard to come by.
I’ve always had a romantic notion about living in the northwest, or the northeast. But preferably Portland, or Seattle, or maybe even skip out of the US and move to Vancouver. I love, forests, mountains and oceans. And the people in those places, especially the northwest just seem like my kind of people. But, in looking to appreciate where I do live, there is a certain beauty to farm fields and blue sky. And I do like that we have 4 very distinctive seasons.
At least we live in a town with a Big 10 University, so it is a bit more diverse and cultured than most of the cities in our state. And that’s not saying much. But, where we live, we are an hour drive from Indinapolis and a 2 hour drive from Chicago, so we do get out to do stuff.
Betty Please on the other hand, would love to live in San Fransico. Well, anywhere in California really.
Tara@From Dawn Till Rusk responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 8:11 am →

Hi Vered
I am in middle England and love it here.
Sure it’s not the bright lights of London or the laid-back nature of the coast, but the people are so very friendly here. It is also very green and picturesque and I’m surrounded by so much countryside and nature at it’s very best. I guess we’re country bumpkins at heart!
Hubby and I visited San Fran on our honeymoon and loved it.
Lance responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 8:11 am →

I DO love where I live Vered! I’m in SE Wisconsin – in a small community, but not far from the cities of Milwaukee, Madison, and Chicago. What I love about the area I live in – awesome school systems for our kids, the mix of urban life and country life – being on the far outer edge of a metro area, the friendliness of the people, how safe our community is (I really should lock my car door more often, but I just feel so safe…), access to many lakes, outdoor activities within just a few miles of our house, and a big backyard to play in. What don’t I like? Cold temps in the winter, sometimes more snow than I care for, humidity in the summer, mosquitoes, to name a few…

San Francisco sounds wonderful – I’ve never been there, but would like to visit! I’ve been to California a few times – but always in the San Diego/Los Angeles area. San Francisco is high on my list of places to visit – and you’ve only helped to add fuel to that fire! I will make it there soon!!
Irene | Light Beckons responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 8:33 am →

I definitely miss San Francisco, you’re a lucky woman! I do love where I live. It’s summmer all year round in Singapore, and I grew up here so there are many good memories of this place. While I love my travels too, I’m always happy to be home. And the food – gosh, the food!!!
Dr. J responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 8:36 am →

Absolutely! I love Northern Florida, or the “other Florida,” as it’s called! I had lived in several places before coming here. Within a few weeks after first moving to this area, I had a feeling of being home come over me. I had never felt that anywhere else before, and cherished it. If I lived in your part of the country, Clear Lake has been calling me
Suzie responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 8:41 am →

I hate NYC. Ive lived here since i was 17 we have to live here because of my hubbys work. But i think its loud rude and harsh. I would move if I could in a minute as long as it was too another city.
Writer Dad responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 8:47 am →

I live in Long Beach, and love it. I’ve lived here all my life, and though I long to travel, I do consider Long Beach my home. It’s beautiful, on the ocean, and big enough to be big, yet still small enough to be small. We hide in the shadow of LA, but have the second largest port in the world. Long Beach rules!
Shalee responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 9:01 am →

I live right on the Puget Soung in washington and its gorgeous I lived the Florida for over 13 years and have missed the ocean terribly when my family took me out of my high school to go live in Utah ( my junior year).
I have lived in 6 different states( Utah, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Florida, Idaho and now Washington) My dad worked for a newspaper company and he would get transferred to bigger newspaper. But then after working for an industry that is slowly going down hill for over 15 years he decieded to quite the business and become a marketing director for my Uncle’s bottleing company in Utah. So we picked up and moved once again into my 9th house. But I am grateful for that because that is how i met my husband.
I went to Idaho for school and while up there my husband proposed to me.
Then once we got married we moved up to Washington. Washington is where my husband grew up and he wanted to move back to his roots.
I’ve never had preface for where i wanted to live but I am glad that we live in washington. I love it so much.
Jonathan Mead responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 9:09 am →

I originally lived in Seattle. My family decided to move to California (my mom, her boyfriend and my 3 sisters). I eventually missed them and decided I wanted to live closer to them. So I moved. A year and half later, they decide to go to Utah. Nuh uh. I can’t hang with that. Sorry.

So a year after Utah, they’re bored and decide they want to move to Port Townsend, WA. About an hour or so away from Seattle. WTF?

My wife’s family lives in Palm Desert, about 2 hours away from us, so we’re kind of conflicted. I would love to move back up to Washington, but we’re still trying to decide at this point.

I love the culture most in Seattle. It’s more artistic and progressive than the “look at me” culture of socal. I also hate the fact that it’s November here and still feels like July. I miss the rain. =(

Oh one other cool thing about Seattle is you can walk down the street and talk to pretty much anyone. In LA, however, you might get shot for doing so. =)
Jennifer (Danifer) responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 9:15 am →

Arizona is where I live because this is where my family is. Here in AZ, we do not have any major weather catastrophes, we are not too far from the mountains and pine trees and if we want to go to the snow, we can. I don’t like Arizona because it is hot most of the time, it is filled with ugly cactus, there is so much humidity, and you have to drive for hours just to see green (and everything is flat)! I envy you, Vered, I miss California, I lived there for 3 years and wish I could go back.
Jannie responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 9:34 am →

I like San Francisco too, only been there for a week one afternoon but ya gotta love that place.

Speaking of loving a place, if ya gotta live in Texas, Austin’s it. Clean, green, music-full. World Whole Foods HQ. Everything you’d ever want for kids. No ocean but the river’s a delight. You been here yet, Vered?
MizFit responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 9:49 am →

I LOVE where I live but really think Id be happy anywhere in a way (finally.) as long as my family & canines were with me…
M responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 10:23 am →

I live in MN so no I don’t like where I live from now until March! Otherwise I love it. I could use a change of scenery though! Hope the weekend was fantastic!
Jill responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 10:39 am →

I agree with everything you said about the city. Great pictures.
Andre_Kibbe responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 10:54 am →

San Francisco is beautiful, as is the Bay Area in general. I love it for the not-so-uptight residents as much as the food and scenery. I usually head up to SF, Berkely, Santa Rose or Sebastopol one or twice a year.

Like Jonathan (part of my blogger Meetup group), I’m in Pasadena and love it here. It strikes a good balance of natural scenery and urban sensibility. Back in the early nineties I lived in Argentina for a few months (Rosario and Buenos Aires). BsAs is an amazing city. Beautiful archtecture, music, people and food. I still think about moving back for a longer stay, but for the moment I’m content in Pasadena, especially now that the political climate in the US seems to be becoming more agreeable to me.
Sandy responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 10:55 am →

I live in the Portland Oregon metro area, and I love it here. I moved here from the IL/IN area, and the day I walked out of the plane, to the airport, and into the rental car…I knew I was home. That was 12 years ago and I haven’t looked back. I love the scenery. I love the people. I love that you can be at the ocean in an hour, the mountains in an hour, and the city in 45 minutes. I love the rain, I love the trees, and I love waking up in the morning with a smile on my face because I love where I live. I was just having a conversation about this very subject last night with a friend, who, unfortunately, doesn’t like where they live. Too sad. Everybody should live somewhere that makes them happy.
Carol responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 11:10 am →

I live in Sacramento. I love it here, but like the other commenter, I would love anywhere I lived as long as my guy and my kids were with me. San Francisco is beautiful.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 11:12 am →

This is fascinating! I love reading about where you all live. What a diverse group we are.

@ Kirsten: Southern California is OK… I could see myself living there, as long as it wasn’t in LA. I visited LA a couple of years ago. I felt like a fish out of the water, especially in Beverly Hills. All the women had fake blond hair, a fake tan and fake boobs. It was amazing. I can’t see myself raising my daughters in that atmosphere.

@ Avani: I’ve never been been to Florida. Adding it to my list.

@ Maya: I can relate. I grew up in a city. I love cities. Nature often makes me feel uncomfortable.

@ Carla: I hear that Portland is beautiful too. We have friends who live there. We’re planning a trip that would include Portland and Seattle.

@ Bamboo Forest: Diversity often means tolerance and acceptance.

@ Evelyn: I’ve never been to Singapore. Adding to my list.

@ Shamelle: I didn’t realize you were in Sri Lanka! That’s so cool. You should write a post about it.

@ Christina: We visited Kauai a couple of years ago. Can’t wait to go back. I want to see the Big Island and Maui.

@ Mike Goad: I would LOVE to go back in time and be in San Francisco of the 60s and 70s.

@ Kelly: Sydney does sound like heaven, and as you know, Australia is most definitey on my list. What you say about the weather reminds me of Northern California: it’s never really bad here.

@ Wesley: I’m definitely a city girl, but NYC is a bit much even for me.

@ Barbara: I didn’t realize you spent 8 years in San Francisco. Sigh. I hope I never have to leave.

@ Dominique: I love the USA. Can you tell? As troubled as the nation is right now, I really do believe it’s the best place to live, especially as far as personal freedoms and opportunities go. Although I do hear Australia and New Zealand are awesome, and – to me – Israel will always feel like home.

@ Avital: The flights from California to Israel are terrible. But yes, it’s sunny here. I think you’ll love it here once you get over the prices. Everything is insanely expensive. I think it’s the most expensive place in the U.S. after NYC.

@ Scott: I’ve been to Florence, Italy years ago with my parents. I was a kid…. I don’t remember much! I would LOVE to visit Glasgow. I’ve only been to London and that was years ago too.

@ MommyNamedApril: I’m sure the tourists are a pain. People often talk about loving a place with four seasons. I guess it’s difficult for me to relate because I’ve never experienced it – I moved from Israel to NorCal – both places have basically two seasons.

@ big hair envy: I think people are often influenced by where they grew up. I grew up in the city, so I feel comfortable in cities and a bit like a fish out of the water in the country.

@ Mia: I’ve never been to Colorado, but my husband has been to Denver many times on business and loves it. We ski, so that’s actually a plus for us.

@ zoe: Four distinctive seasons is something that I never experienced so it’s difficult for me to relate to. I love cities so much, I think I would just shrivel and die if I ever moved t a rural setting.

@ Tara: “I guess we’re country bumpkins at heart!” Haha then we can’t possibly be friends.

@ Lance: The biggest drawback to living in a city is safety. No doubt.

@ Irene: Great food is a good reason to love – or to visit – any place!

@ Dr. J: The feeling you describe – of just KNOWING that you belong – is wonderful.

@ Suzie: “loud rude and harsh” – I agree.

@ Writer Dad: Your insistence to not use your link is so endearing… But you KNOW you can use it, right? I know you’re sincere. Long Beach sounds good. I’ve never been there – only been to LA.

@ Shalee: Moving around a lot as a kid must have been tough. But I hear it also builds character and makes it easier to meet new friends.

@ Jonathan: You refer to “the “look at me” culture of socal.” That’s interesting. I visited LA a couple of years ago and HATED that culture, but I thought it was just LA. It was so FAKE. I could never live there. I’ve never been to Seattle. I know it’s a wonderful city but the weather would be a turnoff for me. I like July in November! It’s raining here today and I find it depressing.

@ Jennifer: Arizona… hmmm.. never been there but I’m guessing that at least real estate there is cheap? The prices here are INSANE.

@ Jannie: Haven’t been to Austin but I know it’s consistently on CNN Money’s list of best places to live. I would love to visit. Adding to my list.

@ MizFit: I love your attitude!

@ Mark: The mild weather is on eof the best things about NorCal.

@ Jill: I knew you’d agree.

@ Andre: I would LOVE to visit Buenos Aires. I’m not sure I would want to live there, but I’d love to see it and experience the culture and the food.

@ Sandy: “the day I walked out of the plane, to the airport, and into the rental car…I knew I was home.” Sounds like what Dr. J said above. That’s just wonderful! “Everybody should live somewhere that makes them happy.” – in an ideal world, that would definitely be the situation.

@ Carol: I LOVE your attitude. I’m pretty sure I would be miserable in the country – even with my family. I wish I could feel like you!
Kim Woodbridge responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 11:43 am →

I lived in three different places in this country; New Hampshire, Tuscon and Philadelphia – in that order. It’s funny that I started in a rural area with a population smaller than all of the staff at Children’s Hospital and I now live in the 4th largest city in the country. (well, Phoenix can argue that they are but …)

I’ve liked different things about each place. It took me a long time to warm up to Philadelphia – for a long time I thought the people were mean. And I don’t really know why I came here – it was just a whim. I don’t love the city but I love my neighborhood. I live in West Philly (some call it University City but I think that’s a marketing scheme) near the University of Pennsylvania. We have a lot of diversity; students, professors, anarchists, immigrants from Africa and Vietnam, hippies, etc and it is very liberal. We also have a wonderful park just three blocks away and a lot of trees. Some parts of the city have hardly any trees. I’m also fortunate enough to just barely be in an awesome school district for K-8. It’s a public school but receives some funding from the University. It is also only 7 years old.

Philly is close to NYC but isn’t New York and is close to the ocean too.

I also love that I don’t need a car. I despise them and don’t want to live somewhere where you have to drive. I can walk to work and take public transportation. If I want to go to the ocean or somewhere farther I can rent a car or use Philly Car Share.

I love urban and I love rural but I could never never never live in the suburbs.

Is this my ideal place to live? Probably not – but I’m not sure where that would be.
Jamie responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 12:03 pm →

My husband and I ask each other all the time why anyone would live in Ohio! We would move in heartbeat if it weren’t for family ties. I would live near the ocean, my husband would move to Tennessee, so unless we buy two houses, we’re stuck on that issue, too!

It looks beautiful there. I would love to visit the West coast someday.
Jessica Stock responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 12:06 pm →

I love San Francisco. My husband proposed to me there.

I live in rural Ohio . . . amish buggies, quilts, too many home-style restaurants and not enough to do . . . I have learned to appreciate the simplicity and beauty of the rolling hills and small friendly towns, I love the seasons, and I am thankful to be near family. I miss the opportunities, art, culture, and diversity that large cities offer.
Raag responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 12:30 pm →

Oh Vered, How I envy you.
I visited San Francisco three years ago. And I loved the city…I announced that if ever I have the choice to move anywhere else it will be to San Francisco.
Ten years ago work brought us to NJ from India. Though I love NJ for the diversity and the vast availability of my kind grocery here, but I have to say after travelling around the great USA, and of all the places I have visited in USA, SF was the best.
I LOVED it.
Yes, it is a surprise to realise you live in SF.
Patricia responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 12:51 pm →

Vered,
Thank you for the link, I am busy reading comments on my own site and that is just lovely.

I was born in Olympia, Washington, I think one of the few natives I met in my growing up years! My parents moved 22 times from when I was 16 until I finished graduate school. I almost took a job in Chicago, but then a new alternative college, with a $500 a month salary package offered me a position in Olympia, Washington. I came back and my parents moved back here after retirement. It is a beautiful place and I adore the sound of fog horns and love the green that the rain brings. My honey built a business here so we feel glad for all the people we meet. I like that it is the Capital City and all the protesters and big “wigs” come by and make speeches and keep the global action near my door step.

I am coming to San Francisco for Thanksgiving to visit my daughter who works at San Francisco State University and my honey and I are going to do walking tours looking at Sustainable buildings and historic buildings. We did this last year too and walked the Golden Gate Bridge on Thanksgiving day with all those people! What an experience and I loved the Museum of Modern Art.

We also spent 4 days in Seattle last year, because for all my years in this area I have never been to the Pike Street Market or the Art Museum – I just went there to visit friends and work! That was fun too.

For my 60th birthday I am going on a tour of the United Kingdom and hoping to see where my mum’s family estate is in England ( we are tracking this down?) and my Father’s birth place in Scotland. They came to the USA from Canada.

I have traveled lots of places in Canada as I visited relatives and then I made college and graduate school a study of the US by going to school in Ohio, Missouri, North Carolina, New Jersey and San Diego, CA. I have traveled to Seoul, Korea to work with an adoption agency too.

I think I just love being alive and discovering the best of where I am at, which usually involves people and getting to know them. I don’t think I can live in places that are too hot….I just can not function in the heat.

What a great picture Vered and maybe I will recognize you when I am in SF and wave! Thank you for the link hug….and what a great post. I have read all the comments several times – they are so delightful.
grace responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 1:41 pm →

I live in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I love love love it here. I did grow up here, and upon my graduation moved as far away as I possibly could…Texas. I loved Texas. But then moved to Indianapolis. Loved Indianapolis. But somewhere along the way, I realized that I really do love the Upper Peninsula. With the thoughts of opening a coffee shop, my husband and I moved up here 4 years ago…and I continue to love this place.
Mo responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 2:57 pm →

I grew up in San Francisco and the East Bay and I loved it. I moved to So Cal for college and ended up staying for work, but I still miss the Bay Area. There’s a vibe and culture up there that you just don’t feel in So Cal. San Francisco (please don’t call it Frisco) is more New York–like to me in that people get out and walk through the city, and there’s stuff going on all the time (but not after midnight!). And I loved the fog. It contributes to the romance of the city.
Marelisa responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 3:21 pm →

There are things that I like and that I dislike about Panama. I like the nature here, I like that my family’s here, I like that the rhythm of life isn’t as fast as in other places . . . I dislike that most people here are incredibly close minded and I dislike that there’s not much culture here. I haven’t traveled in a while, I think I need to get on a plane and go to the US or to Europe for a couple of weeks.
Friar responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 3:36 pm →

I originally moved here as a comprimse between trying to find work in my field, and being within shouting distance from my friends and family, who live 2 hours away.

I love where I live for MOST of the time (Except now, when it’s cold and damp. Too miserable to do anything fun outside and too warm for skiing and winter activities). November is the worst month to live anywhere in Canada, especially Ontario.

In the summer, I can go canoeing on a wilderness lake (with no one else) and catch fish for supper. And not just on a camping trip, but any time I feel like it. After supper, during the work week. There’s an infinite number of areas to explore, within miles of where I live.

In the winter, I can pop on my cross country skis and go on trails in the forest, 2 minutes from my house. The snow is crunchy and crisp, and brilliant white with a blue sky.

It’s relatively unspoiled here…there are wolves and bears and moose, (sometimes right in town). I had bear poop in my back yard this summer.

There’s only one traffic light, and you can see the Milky Way in your back yard at night. You can leave your car unlocked. Housing is affordable..you can get a 3-bedroom $150K.

Anyway, these are the reasons I basically put up with my crappy job. The positives make up for the negatives. (At least, SO FAR they do!)
Betsy Wuebker responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 4:05 pm →

Waaaa! Everyone loves where they live, but me! I am ready to move on from the Twin Cities. I do not like the suburb where Pete bought his house and I moved after we were married. I do not like it Sam I Am!

We want to be up on the North Shore in Grand Marais, MN. And now we are very confused, because we fell in love with Alaska. And I love the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, too! Anywhere, please, but here!
Becky responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 4:31 pm →

I live in a suburb of Chicago, the very same one I grew up in! Since I voluntarily moved back, I think it speaks volumes about how much I love my hometown. St Charles, IL, btw.

My husband, a nomad by nature, is a convert. It’s a lovely, lovely river town

And I have a ton of family in California. I can see why you love it there.
Robin responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 4:38 pm →

Hi Vered – I really enjoyed looking through the comments above.

I LOVE living in Melbourne, Australia. I moved to Sydney once, but decided to come back.

I live in the relatively inner suburbs, and the nationalities, food, creative types, political bent, suit us fine – a nearby suburb to ours supposedly has the biggest concentration of songwriters in Australia! We have a good mix of nature close by and inner city living, where we are, too.
Tom Volkar / Delightful Work responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 5:04 pm →

Vered now that’s effective link bait. I’m visiting directly from Cath’s blog just to take a look. I agree with your husband.

I live south of Pittsburgh Pa. USA.

I love it because we have four really distinct seasons and Indian Summer is a beaut.

There’s nothing that i don’t like other than road rage idiots but I’ll bet they are everywhere.
Eric Hamm responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 6:09 pm →

I’ve always wanted to visit California as my mom is from San Diego.

I grew up in and currently live in Charlottesville, VA which a beautiful town right along the blue ridge mountains. So when my mom grew up with surfing, I was hiking and mountain biking. I’ve always loved it here and continue to appreciate it more as time goes on.

Back in ‘99, I lived in London for about 7 months. I did enjoy the diversity (we lived in an area that was nicknamed ‘Little India’), but the pollution and high density was not my cup of tea.

Great discussion to open up, by the way.

And thanks for linking to Patricia’s blog. I just read her latest and commented. She has an amazing story and is truly someone to admire. Eric.
Natural responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 7:04 pm →

I’m a New Jersey Girl. Lived here all my life because of family ties. I would not be heartbroken if I had to leave NJ, but would welcome any place where the weather is warm during the day and slightly cool at night. Plan it to relocate to Georgia. Life is slow down there. I like slow, well not in Hot-lanta!
MomGrind responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 9:57 pm →

@ Kim: “I love urban and I love rural but I could never never never live in the suburbs.” While I don’t think I could ever be happy in the country, I have to agree that suburbia is depressing.

@ Jamie: Family ties are complicated. I’m here far away from family and as much as I love it here, it’s not always easy. It was especially tough when I was pregnant.

@ Jessica Stock: “I miss the opportunities, art, culture, and diversity that large cities offer.” I can completely relate!

@ Raag: Next time you visit, be sure to email me first.

@ Patricia: Please don’t thank me. Your post is well written and important. People should read it. I know it made me think and reevaluate things, so thank you. I think we will be out of town for Thanksgiving, but do email me before you get here.

@ grace: A family-run coffee shop is so romantic.

@ Mo: I don’t think any of the locals calls it Frisco. Agree on the culture and the vibe. It’s amazing.

@ Marelisa: A slower pace of life is definitely healthier.

@ Friar: I love the way you describe it. Even to a city girl like me it sounds appealing. But the sentence that REALLY caught my attention is this: “Housing is affordable..you can get a 3-bedroom $150K.” Wow. The same house here would cost at least 5 times as much. This is one of the biggest problems here. Cost of living, and especially real estate prices, is insane.

@ Betsy Wuebker: I hope you move eventually!

@ Becky: Since you made a choice to go back, it does say you love it there. BTW, I still remember your post where you announced that you have no intentions of being anonymous anymore, including letting us know where you live.

@ Robin: I really, REALLY want to visit Australia. Sigh. I know I will, some day.

@ Tom: Ha. Made you look. And, thank you. We actually don’t have too many road rage idiots here in California, which is one of the things I like here. It’s not perfect of course, but for someone who grew up in Israel, where people drive like madmen and madwomen (kind of like in Italy only worse), driving here is s relaxed it still amazes me after 10 years.

@ Eric: I visited London years ago as a child. I would love to go back but I agree: I wouldn’t want to live there long-term. Thank you so much for visiting Patricia’s blog and leaving a comment. She really is a special woman.

@ Natural: We visited Atlanta a few years ago. I really liked it there. The slow pace was great. But yeah, it was hot and humid.
Jeff responds:
Posted: November 3rd, 2008 at 11:44 pm →

Having grown up in Boston, went to university in Tucson, lived in New York and Tel Aviv and the Bay Area, I now live in Portland. Without a doubt, Portland is the place to live. It offers the urban amenities of most cities (sans traffic), with great people, awesome neighborhoods and so much to do outdoors. Plus it is a great place to raise a family!

I think I know at least one of your friends here in Portland – small world
Davina responds:
Posted: November 4th, 2008 at 2:27 am →

Hi Vered. I was raised in Trout Creek, Ontario Eventually moved to Toronto where I lived for 12 years. Then 8.5 years ago I moved here to Vancouver, BC. Love it here. The ocean and the mountains were a big part of me moving out this way. But more than that, I simply fell in love with it when I vacationed here. It just felt like home.

But I’m not attached either. I could easily slip off in a few years to live somewhere else; Alaska, or eastern Canada. I like “living into” a new place. But for now, I’m comfortable where I’m at.
Ricardo Bueno responds:
Posted: November 4th, 2008 at 2:31 am →

I’m in Los Angeles and I love it here (well, of course I don’t like the traffic but I suppose I’ve gotten used to it). But I have to tell ya, I’ve visited San Francisco twice and I love it there just the same! It’s a great city. Would I relocate? Hmm…not sure.
Stacey / Create a Balance responds:
Posted: November 4th, 2008 at 5:38 am →

I live in Chicago-land and love being close to Lake Michigan. We spend most of our family time walking, playing, and picnicking near the lake. What do I like least? Thanks easy – the traffic and parking.
veena responds:
Posted: November 4th, 2008 at 6:33 am →

hey! i live in Bangalore and I don’t like it too much here….but i do love the area where I live.. i.e my part of the city. I used to live in Mysore and I loved it there! the people , the places and just the vibe itself that the city gives
Cath Lawson responds:
Posted: November 4th, 2008 at 8:20 am →

Hi Vered – I do feel stupid now – I didn’t notice you’d posted this but Tom noticed your link on my site. The people who have contributed to this thread seem to live in such amazing places. I haven’t visited San Francisco before but I really want to go there. I would love to see Alcatraz.

I live in a small village in the North Of England. We’re only 20 minutes from the city, a few miles from the Scottish Border and 30 mins from the Lake District. But I still hate it. The weather is what gets me down the most – we hardly get any summer anymore – it’s so depressing. And there’s not many opportunities for kids round here – they would need to move to the South of England.

So I really want to emigrate. So far, I have three choices. I like the idea Australia but the only thing putting me off is the distance and the expensive flights. But everything else sounds great. I also like the idea of Canada – especially the Vancouver area. Also, we may get the chance to move to America, if a job comes up over there with my husband’s company. Their head office is in Kentucky – I know nothing about what it’s like there. But I think they cover most of the Mid-West, so I guess we could end up anywhere.

There’s some nice places in Europe too and my parents live in Spain for part of the year. But I don’t think my kids would adjust well to a Spanish school.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: November 4th, 2008 at 10:46 am →

@ Jeff: Ido and I really should visit Portland. The internet made the world a tiny, tiny place.

@ Davina: Alaska and Vancouver are both on my list. I think it’s great that you’re not particularly attached to where you live.

@ Ricardo: LA… you either love it or hate it, right?

@ Stacey: My husband spent a few years in Michigan as a pre-teen. I’ve never been there.

@ veena: I’ve never been to India. It’s amazing how the internet brings together people from so many places.

@ Cath: Perpetual winter IS depressing. For what it’s worth, I love America. It’s a beautiful nation that was built on beautiful values and yes it will survive these tough times and come out even stronger.
Jannie responds:
Posted: November 4th, 2008 at 10:54 am →

BTW, I really love this idea for a blog post question and was wondering if I were to loosely “borrow” your idea and ask my readers a question like this sometime would you mind?
MomGrind responds:
Posted: November 4th, 2008 at 11:43 am →

@ Jannie: Of course I wouldn’t mind!
Danielle responds:
Posted: November 4th, 2008 at 1:33 pm →

I would be out of jersey if the market was different. I am stuck.
Sara at On Simplicity responds:
Posted: November 4th, 2008 at 2:09 pm →

Despite growing up in beautiful Steinbeck country and going to college in gorgeous socal, I have to say I don’t miss California. The laidback urban feel of Boise suits me well. Since I didn’t actively pick Idaho, I feel lucky that I love it as much as I do.
Avital responds:
Posted: November 4th, 2008 at 2:52 pm →

Have you ever seen the prices here in Dublin???
Dave Jones, CPA responds:
Posted: November 4th, 2008 at 6:24 pm →

Hi Vered,

I know you said you don’t like fog but the picture of San Fransico blanketed in fog is great. I am in SW Ohio and do not particularly like the location. Our family and friends are here and that is what keeps us here. I guess we are lucky to be around our loved ones. Although the laocation isn’t the most desirable, being close to family and friends is. As they (I don’t know who they are) say, “it’s not the house that makes the home.”
MomGrind responds:
Posted: November 4th, 2008 at 9:12 pm →

@ Danielle: I hope you can eventually move out of there!

@ Sara: You’re a content person in general. I think that’s way better than bitching and moaning.

@ Avital: If you’re not going to get sticker shock, then you’ll love it here.

@ Dave Jones: Family and friends ARE important.
Dot responds:
Posted: November 5th, 2008 at 8:49 am →

I’m late getting here but it’s worth it to see where everyone lives. Your readers are so far-flung! I moved here to the Washington, DC area to get away from Brooklyn and Manhattan and crime. I live in a safe suburb surrounded by parks and protected woods, and I love it, mostly. I especially love the woods, but my sinuses hate them. This area is full of culture and diversity — there are people from all over the world, diplomats and others living here, many people visiting here. And now it will be home to President-elect Barack Obama and his family! The Library of Congress is here, the National Archives, all the museums, and the cherry trees. What I dislike about living here is (a) the climate in summer – unbearably humid and hot, (b) compared to New York, the food here is awful, and health food isn’t valued much, and (c) sometimes there can be a kind of provinciality that you wouldn’t expect, due to congresspeople and their staffs from regions of our country that are far from cosmospolitan. All in all, though, a beatiful and very pleasant area.
Cath Lawson responds:
Posted: November 5th, 2008 at 10:48 am →

Thanks Vered – there’s so many places I want to see in America and Canada, so maybe one of them would be a good place to live. It would be nice to transfer with Stuart’s employers also because they’d pay for most of the move.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: November 5th, 2008 at 10:55 am →

@ Dot: We visited Washington back in 1996. I loved it. I thought it was very European.

@ Cath: Ido’s work paid for our relocation. It certainly helps.
Mike Goad responds:
Posted: November 5th, 2008 at 1:44 pm →

Follow-up on my previous comment:

Today, I’m not too happy about where I’m living. Our state, as we expected, went for McCain and I’ve been hearing a few sentiments that border on bigotry. The people here are generally good, decent people, BUT…!

I’ll be posting more on this on my blog later.
Dot responds:
Posted: November 6th, 2008 at 7:39 am →

Very European? I’ve never been to Europe, so I’m not sure what that means.

Some famous guy said something like “I once spent a freezing winter in San Francisco in the summer.” Well, that was me. I only spent one day there, in mid-July, and it was 43 degrees and very windy. I needed a winter coat! Very pretty place, though.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: November 6th, 2008 at 9:43 am →

@ Mike: I’m sure many people will need to get used to the idea. I’m sure most of them will, eventually. African Americans finally broke through the glass ceiling. I hope women will break through their own glass ceiling soon.

@ Dot: The wide, straight avenues reminded me of Paris. But maybe it’s just me. That saying is attributed to Mark Twain, I think: he said that the coldest winter he ever experienced was summer in San Francisco. Locals know that unless there’s a heat wave going on, you should always wear layers, even in summer.
Beth Partin responds:
Posted: November 6th, 2008 at 10:51 am →

I live near Denver and love it. I especially love looking down a city street at a view of the mountains.
Marko - HowToMakeMyBlog.com responds:
Posted: November 6th, 2008 at 3:21 pm →

I live in London. I moved here exactly 1 year ago when I finished my university and got my first full-time job. I love the city and it was the reason that I looked for a job here. It can give you a headache sometimes how crowded it can be, but all those people here is also a good thing…
MomGrind responds:
Posted: November 6th, 2008 at 6:59 pm →

@ Beth: I’ve never been to Denver. It sounds beautiful.

@ Marko: I would love to go back to London, but not necessarily to live there.
Tabitha (From Single to Married) responds:
Posted: November 7th, 2008 at 9:14 am →

I live in the Washington, DC metro area. I have lived here for four years and love it (except for the traffic). I moved here because I’ve always to since I spent summers visiting the area as a child. I’ve lived my dream of being the proverbial “city girl” and now my new husband and I have a house just outside the city so it’s the best of both worlds.
Jenny Mannion responds:
Posted: November 7th, 2008 at 10:15 am →

Hi Vered,
I also LOVE San Fransisco and yes I LOVE where I live. Having grown up in NYC I considered myself a bit of a harsh judge of other cities. I have visited a bunch and really San Fran,Chicago and Miami were the only ones in the US that came close in my book. I now live upstate NY and love the community, looking out and seeing mountains, I can walk and ski at a park 2 blocks from my house, the schools are wonderful, the people are laid back, it is a 5 minute drive to “downtown” and to stores…. I could go on but you get the picture! My house is perfect for us (well…. it will be after some more renovation)! I think it is crucial to love where you live. I lived in NJ for a while in a house that was WAY TOO BIG for us and I felt defeated. The town (for the most part) was very superficial and I am not a mom to go to the playground in heels and makeup! Thanks for this post and the beautiful pictures… makes me want to go back to San Francisco soon!
Love,
Jenny
MomGrind responds:
Posted: November 7th, 2008 at 9:40 pm →

@ Tabitha: “and now my new husband and I have a house just outside the city so it’s the best of both worlds” – sounds good!

@ Jenny: “I am not a mom to go to the playground in heels and makeup!” I wouldn’t want to live in such a place either. I love how laid back San Francisco is.
Zandria responds:
Posted: November 9th, 2008 at 6:26 pm →

I like all the options for entertainment, culture, and festival/community events here in the DC metro area. There are also a wide range of people from various U.S. states and foreign countries that call this area home. It’s pretty cool.
michael wong responds:
Posted: November 10th, 2008 at 8:35 pm →

Hi Vered, thank you for stopping by my blog this morning. Well uh my morning, your evening. I live in Hong Kong. City to city comparison, I’d say HK is like New York and Shanghai is like SF. Still, I love it here. It’s the energy and pulse of the city and the food is nothing to sneeze at (er yuck!).
You have a great blog (and I’m not just saying that because I’m trying to be nice). Design-wise, colour combination and content. I’m adding you to my blogroll. But don’t feel compelled to add me back, i just like reading your stuff.
cheers michaelwong38
MomGrind responds:
Posted: November 11th, 2008 at 11:19 am →

@ Zandria: It is a cool place to live, I agree.

@ michael wong: Thank you for adding me to your (huge) blogroll.
Wendi Kelly-Life's Little Inspirations responds:
Posted: November 11th, 2008 at 12:20 pm →

I live in Chicago land and I live my fmily and three of the seasons, but I Hate the winter. I would love to move to Californoa if I could bring my family with!
MomGrind responds:
Posted: November 11th, 2008 at 8:51 pm →

@ Wendi: I don ‘t think I could survive the winter in Chicago.
Kristy responds:
Posted: November 20th, 2008 at 1:56 pm →

The midwest sucks…plain and simple! I crave sunny days on the beach in Malibu…I hate winter, I hate cold and I hate freezing my A** off six months out of the year…HAHA…can you tell I want to move?
Leslie responds:
Posted: November 21st, 2008 at 10:01 am →

I’m late in reading this post and accompanying comments, but I was floored to find another rural Arkansan!

I love living in the Arkansas Ozarks. I grew up here, moved away for graduate school, and then returned, a little earlier than anticipated, because of a house-and-land deal that we just couldn’t pass up. We have 16 hilly, wooded acres and a tiny 1930s rock house. It’s in need of renovation, and we’re in need of its expansion, so it’s a tear-your-hair out sort of life, but I think(hope) it that eventually it’ll be a funny, character-building experience.

Our nearest town has about 300 people, one gas station, a post office, about 50 churches, one B&B and one sometimes-open cafe. It’s small, and backwards in plenty of ways, but it’s funny and interesting.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: November 21st, 2008 at 10:29 am →

@ Kristy: Yes I can.

@ Leslie: Our lives are so different. It makes me think of the awesomeness of the internet – bringing together people from all kinds of places and lifestyles.
Live The Dream In Silicon Valley responds:
Posted: November 23rd, 2008 at 12:09 pm →

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Sue responds:
Posted: June 25th, 2009 at 8:42 am →

I love SF. I lived there from 1997-2001, and then again last year for 6 months (June 2008- November 2008). I have lived in NYC for over 15 years (1989-1997, 2001- 2009) and just re-moved back to NYC in November for my parents/family but I really, really, really miss SF.

I miss SF’s academic bent, the cultural diversity, the laidbackness, the prettiness, the microclimates, the people. I love going to Chrissy Fields one day to go running, with the GG bridge looming up ahead. I love being able to walk to the other side of the bridge (SF side, not Marin side) after my run for an amazing hike over to the beach (I forget the name, but it’s topless on the SF side). I love going to Funky Door Yoga for my Bikram. There’s always the Broadway/Lyon steps if you’re wandering around and looking for a pretty view of Alcatraz, GG Bridge, and the Palace of Fine Arts in one fell swoop. Oh, yes, I forgot about the Telegraph Hill wooden steps leading up to Coit Tower… who can forget about them?!

I wish I could just pick up to do a day trip north, south or east– go oyster shucking in the North Bay, Napa for some wine, east bay for fruit picking, Monteray just because. I miss being able to run down to the peninsula for dinner parties with friends– BBQ’s! Then of course there’s Tahoe in the winter time and the awesome snowboarding with friends.

There’s also the food. NYC has better food, more restaurants, more stuff to eat… but SF is really ALMOST but not quite as good. I am willing to forfeit that part, especially since in SF there’s cheaper sushi (Sushi Zone!) and Normandy Crepes (not available in NYC– Ticouz!).

I think what I miss most is that ppl are laid back and happy in SF which makes me laidback and happy. There’s so much less pretention in SF but just as much sophistication and intellectualism. I am sick of NYC. Really, really sick of it. If only my family didn’t live in NJ/NY, you can be sure there is only one city for me, and it’s located in a Bay area in the Northern part of CA.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: June 25th, 2009 at 10:33 am →

“There’s so much less pretention in SF but just as much sophistication and intellectualism.” This is exactly how I feel. Hope you find your way back here someday.
Visiting Vancouver responds:
Posted: August 26th, 2009 at 5:56 pm →

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Are You Too Lazy To Live In Canada? | Catherine Lawson responds:
Posted: September 16th, 2009 at 9:09 am →

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Daniel responds:
Posted: October 22nd, 2009 at 4:01 am →

Went to SF for the first time ever in my life recently with a mate, stayed there for a month (and indeed America too), absolutely fell in love with the place.

Loved the rapid roll-in of the fogs, cool afternoon winds and the Sutro Tower on top of Twin Peaks as well the old wooden Victorian villas, the hills and the lack of humid weather. Plenty of sun, surprising how tanned I got considering the cool temperatures.

Food (huge helpings at cheap prices compared to the pittance at expensive prices here!) and clothes so cheap. People very friendly and willing to engage in hour long conversations.

Have not been feeling happy since getting back home. I find Australia too PC, too hot to wear decent fashionable clothes, too restrictive and Sydney is very expensive compared to SF. Oh and Sydney is full of people who love themselves with huge attitudes and are very unfriendly. Can’t wait to leave as SF suits my personality, whereas Sydney does not.

In SF one can do pretty much do whatever one wants. Very liberal minded with no attitude. Am now in the process of applying to move to SF permanently, don’t want to be here in Oz any more. SF rocks big time! Now I know why my olds didn’t want me to go to the US in the first place.
Richard responds:
Posted: October 30th, 2009 at 5:37 pm →

I also live in rural Arkansas. (I’m the 3rd poster on this thread!) I visited SF for the first time in August. I absolutely loved it. I’ve travelled to many different places and SF was one of the best!! I hope that maybe one day, should the opportunity present itself, that I will be able to move there, possibly to retire. It is a very neat place.
Visit the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park and Utah Attractions : Brand Image Platform responds:
Posted: October 31st, 2009 at 10:33 am →

[...] I Love San Francisco [...]

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