Shortly after moving to San Francisco, I learned that one of my favorite artists also spent time here. Diego Rivera, the famous Mexican muralist, visited San Francisco in the early 1930s. It was a working honeymoon for him and his wife, the equally famous artist, Frida Kahlo. They spent time in the city as the celebrated guests of…
The Curated Commute — Inside the Hermit Kingdom
The Curated Commute is a series where I pick interesting podcasts or other audio treats to accompany you on your commute. Hopefully they’ll entertain you and maybe even help you learn a little something while you’re en route… *** Get a glimpse into what it’s like to spend about 100 days a year in North Korea as…
Instagramming From North Korea
Beautifully choreographed dancing, full coverage by the Associated Press, and 3G internet service. It’s safe to say that these are NOT the things you think of when I say North Korea, right? You’re far more likely to think of the dynastic, totalitarian regime that been in power since the 40s begun by Kim Il-sung (pictured above) and now…
A Warm Welcome to Our Newest Readers!
We’ve had LOTS of new readers join Far & Wise over the past couple of weeks, which is very exciting! This post is to say “Hello!” and to give you a quick introduction and tour of the site. THE STORY BEHIND FAR & WISE I started writing online a few years ago, but I’ve hit…
Songs for Homesick Texans
I love San Francisco, but sometimes I still really miss Texas. My oldest nephew started 2nd grade today, and another nephew — who we playfully call #2 or goo goo bear — got stitches last night on his left eyebrow, in the exact same spot as I had them! Whether celebrating, cuddling, or crying is needed,…
Swan Oyster Depot
With over 1300 reviews on Yelp, an appearance on Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations, and a long line that often snakes down the block, I won’t try to argue that Swan Oyster Depot is one of San Francisco’s best kept secrets. But I will tell you that I still meet locals who don’t know it, and I…
A Quick Detour to Muir Woods
A few months ago, I felt the need to get out of the city, to explore, and wander a bit. It is possible to have more than enough of San Francisco. Enough of the honking, enough of the smells of the city, enough of the pushing and shoving on the bus, and enough of the…
The Curated Commute — A Young Doctor Called to Calcutta
The Curated Commute is a series where I pick interesting podcast episodes or other audio treats to accompany you on your commute. Hopefully they’ll entertain you and maybe even help you learn a little something while you’re en route… *** Today’s podcast features a young doctor who receives a surprising phone call on what seemed to…
What Every First Grader Needs to Know About Sweden
Today, I have something a little different than usual for you, and it stars my oldest nephew! His nickname is G Fox (Fox is our shared middle name) or sometimes just G for short. So that’s what I’ll call him here. I’m a VERY proud aunt to my sister’s four kids (7, 4 1/2, 3, and…
10 Uniquely Scandinavian Souvenirs
Lately when I bring something home from a trip abroad, it’s almost always been something consumable that won’t end up taking up space on a countertop or buried in a box only to be discovered again years from now. I like to think of myself as a bit of a minimalist, and I thought I’d gotten…
