My Last Month in San Francisco

Embracing Possibilities and Gratitude

Time flies when you're  working hard and having fun! As I reflect on the past month, filled with adventures, friendships, and personal growth, I can't help but feel a sense of excitement and gratitude.

One of the highlights of my last month in San Francisco was Debby's visit. We had an incredible time exploring the city together, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Our first stop was the iconic Top of the Mark, where we enjoyed breathtaking views of the city's skyline as we sipped on our favorite cocktails. The night was filled with laughter, heartfelt conversations, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of this incredible city.

Nob Hill Cafe became our go-to spot for delicious meals and delightful conversations. With its cozy ambiance and mouth watering cuisine our server, Lisa, treated us like well loved locals!

On a foggy Saturday, we decided to embark on a scenic adventure and hopped on the ferry to Tiburon. The gentle breeze and the mesmerizing views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the sparkling waters created a picture-perfect moment. We strolled along the charming streets, explored quaint shops, and savored the tranquility of this coastal escape. It was a reminder that sometimes the best adventures are found in the hidden gems just outside the city's bustling core. Champagne wishes and Caviar dreams are alive and well in Tiburon!

No visit to San Francisco is complete without a cable car ride, and we were determined to experience the magic of it. With the city engulfed in fog, we embarked on a cable car ride up to Nob Hill from the Wharf. As the cable car slowly made its way through the mist, we felt a sense of whimsy and enchantment. It was a truly surreal experience, one that reminded us of the unique charm this city holds. Worth the almost hour long wait!

One of my last evenings in SF, Shannon and I had the privilege of seeing Jane Fonda at the Castro Theater. Her passion for raising awareness and funds to combat climate disaster inspired us deeply. Witnessing her commitment firsthand reinforced our own dedication to making a positive impact on the world around us.

As the month drew to a close, I found myself immersed in the final stages of my BestReviews internship, UX Design class, and Content Strategy projects. The last few big presentations were both nerve-wracking and exhilarating, as they marked the culmination of weeks of hard work and growth. It was a testament to the skills I had acquired and the confidence I had gained during my time in San Francisco.

Walking has been my preferred mode of transportation in this vibrant city, allowing me to truly immerse myself in its charm. As I glanced at my Apple watch, I was astounded to see that I had walked over 308 miles since my arrival. Each step I took brought me closer to discovering hidden gems, connecting with locals, and appreciating the city's breathtaking landscapes.

While I'm excited to return home and take part in the upcoming Medill graduation ceremonies this weekend, I can't help but wonder what the future holds. A lot can change in 11 weeks, and I am open to the possibilities that lie ahead. San Francisco has not only provided me with incredible experiences but has also fostered meaningful friendships that will endure beyond my time here.

My Mother's Day reflection

2 years without my mother on mother's day.

May 15, 2023

Mother's Day is a bittersweet occasion for many of us, as it evokes both fond memories and sometimes heartache. It's a time to celebrate the women who have nurtured us, guided us, and loved us unconditionally. For me, however, Mother's Day has become more complicated ever since my mother, Jackie, passed away almost two years ago.

Jackie was the heart and soul of our family. She was the one who brought us all closer, and we often spent Mother's Day together. The thought of spending this day without her has been so hard, even though we are told things get easier with time. Being away from my family for grad school right now only adds to the complexity of the day. I miss them all, but I really miss my mom. She was my confidant, my role model, and one of my best friends.

At a loss for what to do with my day and in an effort to feel closer to her, I went to the beach. It's a place she never particularly enjoyed, but it's where I feel close to her there. As I walked along the shore, I can feel her presence beside me. It's comforting to know that even though she's physically gone, she's still with me in spirit.

As a mother myself, I am grateful for the four wonderful sons that Jackie helped me raise. It truly took a village and my mother was such a vital part of our all hands on deck parenting years. My sons are my reminders of her daily. I see her influence in their lives, and it brings me great joy. I know that she would be proud of the men they are becoming.

Mother's Day is reminder of the love and support that my mother gave me. I am blessed to have had her in my life, and I will always cherish the memories we made together. Her spirit lives on in me and in my sons and all those she touched. I will honor her memory by being the best mother I can be, just as she was for me.

Holding space for any of you with heavy hearts this time of year.

More Later!

Amy

ORIGINAL POST

Picnics in the Park, Golden Gate Sunsets, Music and More!

My first month in San Francisco

AMY BOYLE

APR 27, 2023

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I've now been in San Francisco for a month, and I'm loving it! The city is so vibrant and diverse, with something to offer everyone. My Medill MSJ coursework has continued to be so fascinating and inspiring and my internship team has been great to work with. When I'm not at school or at work, I enjoy exploring the different neighborhoods and taking in the stunning views. I'm so grateful for my family who has visited this past month. I'm so proud to show them “my” San Francisco!

Picnics in the Park

If the sun is out, you'll find San Franciscans at the park. Packing a picnic and relaxing at the many beautiful parks is a must. When my husband, Jeff, was here, we took in the views from Lafayette Park and marveled at the cherry blossoms at the Palace of Fine Arts.

Golden Gate Sunsets

I firmly believe the best way to see San Francisco is on foot. The city is very walkable, and there are so many interesting things to see and do along the way. I love taking long walks through Chinatown, admiring the colorful murals in the Mission District, and exploring the winding streets of North Beach. The hills give you a cardio workout as well, BONUS!

One of my favorite views of the city is from Telegraph Hill at Coit Tower. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. I love to take my camera up there at sunset to capture the city's skyline in all its glory. The first night my son Colin was in town, the sunset put on quite a show, and the view was worth the trek after a great pizza and libations at Mario's Bohemian Cafe.

Dear San Francisco

Recently, I had the opportunity to see the show, Dear San Francisco at Club Fugazi. The show is a collection of stories and high-flying acrobatics that share the love for this city. It was a great night out with my Medill cohort. I hadn't been back to Club Fugazi since 1995, and being in the historic theater brought back such fond memories of times with my mother. Funny how just being in a space can give you a connection that you miss dearly.

Restaurants

In terms of restaurants, I've had some amazing meals in San Francisco. One of my favorites is Hyde Street Seafood and Raw Bar. The seafood is fresh and delicious, and the nautical charts on the walls were a touch that reminded Jeff and I of some of our favorite places in Cape Cod. Colin and I had the best experience at Mr. Tipple's Recording Studio. The live music, cozy atmosphere, craft cocktails, and dim sum are not to be missed! If you are looking for delicious Turkish food, head to Lokma. It was the perfect place to catch up with my friend Shannon. (She always knows the best spots!). 

Medill Experience

I'm so grateful for my Medill experience thus far in San Francisco. I continue to learn so much about the city and myself. I am looking forward to the remaining weeks of the quarter.

More Later,

Amy

Original Post

My "home" away from HOME

Hello City - reporting LIVE from San Francisco

AMY BOYLE

MAR 25, 2023

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I’m so glad I got to San Francisco a few days before my third quarter at Medill starts. It has been a beautiful first few days and I realize just how much I love it here!

I Left My Heart In San Francisco 

Song by Tony Bennett The loveliness of Paris seems somehow sadly gay The glory that was Rome is of another day I've been terribly alone and forgotten in Manhattan I'm going home to my city by the Bay I left my heart in San Francisco High on a hill, it calls to me To be where little cable cars climb halfway to the stars…

San Francisco is a great place for anyone who wants to record their travels with photos. You can get lost documenting your time here and then all of a sudden you realize all the history that has happened right where you are standing.

I wasn’t aware when it when I booked it, but I’m staying in one of the apartment buildings that writer - Dashiell Hammett resided in while he wrote the The Maltese Falcon.

To me, San Francisco is America’s version of Paris. I am sure that could start an interesting debate, but I welcome that conversation.

It is romantic, fueled by coffee, cocktails, colorful surroundings and people. When I am here I love to hang out at City Lights Bookstore, just like when I am in Paris I spend time at Shakespeare and Company. Then I take the inspiration I find by perusing oodles of books and words and walk. Yet, in San Fransisco every walk is a cardio event just like the amount of stairs in my last Montmartre apartment. ;) The hills are REAL and your glutes and hamstrings will feel it at then end of your day. Don’t worry Pilates friends at Heat 3.0, I am still getting my workouts in!

Sunshine is calling and I am off to find more inspiration - Enjoy your weekend.

More Later!

Amy

• Update: Since posting this article I found a walking tour entitled 1850's San Francisco: Paris Of The Pacific - Bruce was a great tour guide and I loved seeing what is left of the French neighborhood in SF. I guess this tour validates my hypothesis!

Original Post

What is old is NEW again

I'm heading back to SF this spring.

AMY BOYLE

MAR 13, 2023

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It’s been a hot minute - well 32 years...

The feeling that came over me in seeing the Golden Gate Bridge for the first time has never left me and I feel that ‘she’ has still has quite a pull on me - So when I get the chance to go back, I go as often as possible. I called San Francisco home in 1994 and later this month, I will be back for my first truly extended stay since then.

On a visit in 2018 I looked up while walking in the financial district. These purple banners announcing Northwestern’s new presence in San Francisco planted a seed that will be coming to fruition in less than two weeks!

I’ll be joining fellow Medill School MSJs for Q3. What’s on deck? I am enrolled in Foundations of UX Design, Content Strategy and Media Innovation & Content Strategy in Practice.

I am looking forward to the growth that lies ahead and being back at my city by the bay.

More later!

Amy

Original Post

It takes 18 to Tango

A glimpse into one night in Buenos Aires

AMY BOYLE

MAR 4, 2023

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The corner seemed familiar, but not because I had been there before. The sun set just a few hours ago and the heat of the day is beginning to wane. It is summer here even though my geographic bearings have yet to adjust. I am grateful for the slight drop in temperature. 

Our group of 18’s excitement to enter the establishment is palpable. The street lights glimmer off each pebble on the cobble stone as I scan for a place to sit in case we have a long wait. To my relief there is a lone bistro table and chair, good to know! We had just left a previous engagement and our social muscles are well lubricated. Many of us had dressed up for the evening. The choice of my ridiculous three and half inch high heels may look great, but have not been used at any other time on this reporting sojourn. Our group stands in clusters (clicks if you will), but what we all have in common at this moment is the possible high point of our trip, tango night.

Bar Sur gives off speakeasy vibes. Maybe it’s this particular night or our virtual familiarity with the establishment introduced to us in an episode of Parts Unknown hosted by the late Anthony Bourdain. That episode began in black and white and I am beginning to feel that I am going to time travel.

The doors are opened and we file in - There is only one main room. The black and white tile floors are revealed as the shotgun front to back of the room is surrounded by bistro tables and chairs. The 18 of us find our partners for the night and sit down. These partners may be  our classmates we have spent the whole week with thus far, but a few tables by choice or happenstance, mix it up. Our conversations are quieted a bit as we wait to learn how the night is going to unfold. The walls are not overly decorated, however there are Art Nouveau stencils that grab my eye and the mirrors behind the bar add a sense of a larger space. Each table has a singular candle whose cut glass holder creates a beautiful pattern on the tabletop. Wine is poured and the show begins.

The music played by a bassist, piano player and violinist is haunting, nostalgic and enticing. I look around the room to see my classmates each with different levels of interest, yet all locked on to the fancy footwork that sweeps you away in the moment. We cheer and eagerly look forward to our photo ops with the dancers. How is it that the whole week of parachute immersion could end so choreographed yet feel so authentic?

While the Argentinian tango is for two people what this night represents is 18 of us coming together. There are characters who lead and those who follow, but at the end of this trip it truly took all 18 of us to tango!

Did I mention, I went back to school? (original text)

A reflections on some Q1 work

AMY BOYLE

JAN 29, 2023

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Yes, after a few years (cough) out of school, I decided NOW was the right time to go after my dream of a masters degree in journalism. I have been challenged and inspired to leave my comfort zone in order to stretch as an artist and as a professional, but I have also been humbly surprised that I am welcomed mentor to my cohort as well.

Here are three short pieces that I created last quarter.

Audio Reporting (YouTube)

This is a short piece of audio reporting I did last fall. Join me at Heat 3.0 for an introduction to Pilates and its community. Interview with Andrea Metcalf.

News Reporting - stand-up (YouTube)

I am rarely in front of the camera - This is a short intro to the additional locations of Christkindlmarkets in and around Chicago for 2022.

Personal Project (YouTube)

Who inspired the 52 Phenomenal Women project?

Using current and archival footage, I describe who was my true inspiration for the 52 Phenomenal Women project.

We are now almost half way through Q2 and I will be sharing more pieces shortly. Next up video reporting from Buenos Aires, Argentina!

As I am known to say, More Later!

-Amy