Kimberly

In Howard’s Cafe, 9th Avenue
Inner Sunset
Monday morning

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A statistic I have always enjoyed is that there are more dogs than children in San Francisco. As a first grade teacher, this is probably something I should be concerned about. Rather, it’s one of the odd things about the city that I love.  This makes some kind of sense to me; the city’s energy can keep up with a puppy. Those who know me best have called me a puppy. Evidently, I can exude the energy of a 2-year-old puppy on a consistent basis.  So it makes some kind of sense that I live here.

I originally came to San Francisco for school and was lucky enough to stumble upon a city that felt like home. I think what I love most is that it is always able to keep my attention. It is always prepared to play with me. I will never be able to take all the opportunities that the city throws at me. I am able to play soccer, brunch, BBQ, drink, and dance, and that’s just a Saturday. No day I live here is ever the same. It might be the same MUNI train, but there are new characters. It might be the same brunch place, but the stories shared always change. The people I hold dear will always be there, but our roles and relationships are always evolving.

The people I have met here also solidify my love of this city. Just like the town that embraced me, these people are always ready to play. They are open to adventures driving up the coast and scarfing down oysters, dressing up like a bride and milling around downtown, and endless food indulgences at our favorite spots. They support me in ways I never knew were possible while simultaneously keeping me amused and entertained. I am eternally grateful for San Francisco for bringing these people to me. My partners in adventure around this city have become the playmates and soul mates I never knew I could have.

I feel the same about the city. It began as my playmate, an entertaining and enticing location; so different from the more conservative suburb I grew up in. It has now become my home, my soul mate. My most recent living location is in the ever so underrated Outer Sunset. I was hesitant about moving here at first. Now, I am hopelessly in love with my neighborhood. Despite living at the edge, I feel more connected to San Francisco now that I have ever before. From my little tsunami watchtower I am able to watch the waves and then hop a train to marvel at the urban bustle. Though I know my neighborhood will change as I feel the need to play in other parts of the city, I know the energy I am looking for will always be wherever I am. As long as I bring my enthusiasm to play, San Francisco will meet me every time.

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You can see a slideshow of Kimberly’s photo shoot here.