I took several pictures at sunset on Ocean Beach today. In the end, this was my favorite, because of the color, simplicity and calming effect. Also, I want to go back and photograph the surfers.
If Andy and I eventually buy property in San Francisco (I am talking the ten year plus plan), I would love a place near the ocean in the Sunset or Richmond.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
29/365 : Christmas
My mom was a little late with Christmas, so Andy and I received our gifts today, complete with candy stuffed stockings. She also gave us a frame with pictures from her wedding last fall. Seeing photos of my mom and brothers put a huge smile on my face. I am literally glowing.
You bet the frame is the first item we hung on our walls. Not only do we finally have pictures up, but I completed the Ikea bedroom set today. Andy and I unpacked several more boxes and cleaned the living room. And I made the bed for the first time since Boston.
I still need a few more pieces of furniture until we completely unpack, but at least the mess of boxes is contained, whereas before it was conquering our living room. Slowly but surely this apartment is starting to feel like home.
You bet the frame is the first item we hung on our walls. Not only do we finally have pictures up, but I completed the Ikea bedroom set today. Andy and I unpacked several more boxes and cleaned the living room. And I made the bed for the first time since Boston.
I still need a few more pieces of furniture until we completely unpack, but at least the mess of boxes is contained, whereas before it was conquering our living room. Slowly but surely this apartment is starting to feel like home.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
27/365 : Chickpeas
Some days I want to make art, others I simply want to document my life. I suppose this project is learning how to combine both.
Yesterday I made roasted chickpeas again. These are a nutritious and delicious (CRUNCHY) substitute for french fries. The best part of cooking with garlic is that the yummy aroma fills the house.
I borrowed the idea from Recipe Zaar. Add or take away whichever spices you like.
Yesterday I made roasted chickpeas again. These are a nutritious and delicious (CRUNCHY) substitute for french fries. The best part of cooking with garlic is that the yummy aroma fills the house.
I borrowed the idea from Recipe Zaar. Add or take away whichever spices you like.
Monday, January 26, 2009
26/365 : When it rains
Andy had an interview at an oncology center in the East Bay today. I went with him so we could pick up more missing hardware from Ikea. It was a beautiful day, so I explored the office park, including a patio behind the building.
So, I think I found a new favorite photo subject - water.
So, I think I found a new favorite photo subject - water.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
24/365 Nightscene
I had dinner with some friends at a loft in SOMA - beautiful space and view. It was a lovely wine-filled evening of chili and board games. And decadent chocolate cake!
Also, this is why I need a tripod.
Also, this is why I need a tripod.
23/365 Hope
I had my first batch of job interviews on Friday. Here's a shot of the power suit at Starbucks, power pumps not pictured. I am keeping my lips shut for now; I don't want to jinx anything.
Friday, January 23, 2009
22/365 : Free at last
Within a week of our arrival, Andy had a very serious kidney stone which caused kidney inflammation and developed into an infection. After spending all night in the ER, the hospital scheduled him for emergency surgery and 18 hours later, they implanted a stent to alleviate the pain and allow the stone to pass.
Needless to say, the past few weeks have been difficult for him. His energy levels were low and we couldn't go for walks together to explore the city. Although the procedure was minor and his condition was not life threatening, surgery wreaks havoc on your body and the stent is uncomfortable.
Yesterday was the big day; the urologist removed the stent. Andy and I could not believe its length - one foot! Of course we asked to take a picture and the doctor said we could even take it home.
Funny story - when the hospital sent Andy home after the original surgery, they returned his underwear in a biohazard bag.
It's good to have him healthy again.
Needless to say, the past few weeks have been difficult for him. His energy levels were low and we couldn't go for walks together to explore the city. Although the procedure was minor and his condition was not life threatening, surgery wreaks havoc on your body and the stent is uncomfortable.
Yesterday was the big day; the urologist removed the stent. Andy and I could not believe its length - one foot! Of course we asked to take a picture and the doctor said we could even take it home.
Funny story - when the hospital sent Andy home after the original surgery, they returned his underwear in a biohazard bag.
It's good to have him healthy again.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
20/365 : Patriotic pancakes
To celebrate today's inauguration of our nation's first African-American president, a man who I believe brings much needed hope to my generation, I cooked a patriotic breakfast - blueberry and strawberry pancakes dusted with powdered sugar, served with vegetarian sausage links and a mimosa. It truly felt like Christmas morning. I sat in front of the television, enjoying my delicious breakfast, watching a parade. And I spent the remainder of the day glued to news coverage, my emotions bouncing between tears of joy and bursting disbelief.
I know Barack Obama is just another politician, bound to make promises he can't keep, but right now America needs to hear about change and hope. That positive message speaks to everyone, even a cynical, unemployed person like myself. The road ahead may be bumpy, but in the end, we will look back at this moment with pride.
I know Barack Obama is just another politician, bound to make promises he can't keep, but right now America needs to hear about change and hope. That positive message speaks to everyone, even a cynical, unemployed person like myself. The road ahead may be bumpy, but in the end, we will look back at this moment with pride.
Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America: They will be met.
On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.
~ Barack H. Obama, 44th President of the United States, 1.20.09
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
19/365 : Reading list
From top to bottom - France, food, France AND food, spirituality - my current obsessions.
- Blame it on Paris by Jennifer Greene - romantic fluff set my dream destination. This book was more cheese than I expected, but a welcome escape from reality. When Andy and I are finally earning enough income and feeling secure, I am planning our next international trip to Paris.
- Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver - combination memoir and history lesson from a family who lived on foods grown/raised on their own farm and locally for a year. I am not that disciplined, and love bananas, but so far, this is a very informational read.
- My Life in France by Julia Child - Julia Child always seemed like a feisty lady who loved her food. I cannot wait to start this one. Of course, cooking is another new interest of mine.
- Buddhism for Dummies - I am always picking up and putting down this book. I keep meaning to research local Buddhist meetings.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Sunday, January 18, 2009
17/365 : Gray
This was a failed experiment with light and shadows, but at least I am starting to look at everyday objects differently. I can't expect to learn anything if I don't challenge myself.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
16/265 : Stella
More photo experimenting with household objects, and again at Tom and Darrell's place.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
15/365 : January
Today was 100x better than yesterday. I met a friend for delicious vegetarian lunch, then had a nice walk around the city. I sat in a park, took a few pictures, and found myself thankful I had the entire day off.
On the bus ride back to my apartment, I moved forward with a game plan. If I am going to make it through unemployment, I need to embrace some hobbies, especially photography. I would love a professional digital camera, but my gadget lust must wait until I have steady income. I also want to start running, since I live so close to Golden Gate Park. I am considering charging running shoes. The cost is worth it, as a way to get me out of the house and keep my spirits high.
Although the economy would disagree, the timing was perfect for me to relocate. I am due for a fresh start and change of scenery.
On the bus ride back to my apartment, I moved forward with a game plan. If I am going to make it through unemployment, I need to embrace some hobbies, especially photography. I would love a professional digital camera, but my gadget lust must wait until I have steady income. I also want to start running, since I live so close to Golden Gate Park. I am considering charging running shoes. The cost is worth it, as a way to get me out of the house and keep my spirits high.
Although the economy would disagree, the timing was perfect for me to relocate. I am due for a fresh start and change of scenery.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
13/365 : Homesick
Today was the first I felt homesick, on top of the growing cabin fever.
After a disappointing meeting with a temp agency, I changed into scrubs and hopped on the internet. You know what - fuck that shit. If I can't find a job, I at least need a hobby. I grabbed my camera and played with the settings and timer. This is the result.
This is how I felt after being in San Francisco for more than a month with no job prospects, after not seeing Andy healthy since the road trip. I miss my friends and family, my old job, my husband. When I arrived on the West Coast, it was as if I simply moved to another apartment in Boston. The entire story of pick up and go was so surreal. Now I feel like I am on another planet.
After a disappointing meeting with a temp agency, I changed into scrubs and hopped on the internet. You know what - fuck that shit. If I can't find a job, I at least need a hobby. I grabbed my camera and played with the settings and timer. This is the result.
This is how I felt after being in San Francisco for more than a month with no job prospects, after not seeing Andy healthy since the road trip. I miss my friends and family, my old job, my husband. When I arrived on the West Coast, it was as if I simply moved to another apartment in Boston. The entire story of pick up and go was so surreal. Now I feel like I am on another planet.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Friday, January 9, 2009
7/365 : Blue skies
Another beautiful day in San Francisco, this one spent at Fort Mason. The statue also has a colorful, glittering mosaic at the foot.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Monday, January 5, 2009
5/365 Peas in a pod
Usually the cats fight for the top of the kitty condo. But sometimes they share.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
3/365 : Japanese Tea Garden
Beautiful, but chilly, day at Golden Gate Park. And I accidentally turned on the date/time stamp!
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Thursday, January 1, 2009
1/365 : French doors
I always wanted to participate in a Flickr 365 project, but never think of it on January 1st. 2009 is the perfect year to start - I moved across the country and want to share San Francisco, through my artsy fartsy eyes.
Follow the journey here or on Flickr.
Follow the journey here or on Flickr.
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