San Francisco was one of my favorite childhood destinations. My parents, born and raised in the Bay Area, would often take me to the city during family visits. Naturally, when planning a trip with Alex, who had never been to the Bay Area, San Francisco was a must. Today, I'll share some of my favorite spots in the city, followed by a highlight of our photo shoot with the talented Irina (tagged below). Hope you enjoy!
Our adventure kicked off at my grandpa’s favorite pupuseria, Balompié Cafe. With soccer-themed decor everywhere, it's a dream for any sports fan. Alex had never tried pupusas before—crazy right?! We ordered a bunch, and let me tell you, they were phenomenal. No grease, just pure yum. Bonus points for the fried plantains and beans too! The place buzzed with soccer games on TV and happy diners, making it a nostalgic, good-vibes kind of day.
And of course I had to get a photo at the I love Alex garage across the way ;)
Next, we meandered down Lombard Street, famously known as the most crooked street in the world. The views of downtown from this twisty-turny road were simply breathtaking, adding to the thrill of navigating those sharp curves (thanks dad!). It was like being on a mini roller-coaster ride without ever leaving the ground.
After our ride down Lombard Street, we made our way to Ghirardelli Square, where Alex's love for chocolate could finally get the VIP treatment it deserved. Seriously, it felt like a lifetime since I’d last been there, so poking around the quirky shops and charming boutiques was a real blast from the past. But let’s be real—chocolate was the main event here. We dove headfirst into some of Ghirardelli’s finest treats.
After an exhilarating day soaking up the city’s energy, Alex and I decided to leave behind the urban buzz and drive across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge toward Muir Woods. Now, I’m undeniably a city girl, thriving amidst skyscrapers and the hustle and bustle, whereas Alex finds his solace in the great outdoors. So, a trip to Muir Woods seemed like the perfect detour for him—and secretly, one of my absolute favorite getaways too.
There's something magical about this enchanted forest that always leaves me wide-eyed with wonder. The grandeur of the towering redwoods is simply mesmerizing. Where the sunlight breaks through the dense canopy, casting sunlit beams and creating dreamlike patterns on the forest floor. The tranquility of Muir Woods seeps into your very being and makes you forget all the hustle and bustle left behind in the city. If you’re ever in San Francisco, make sure Muir Woods is on your must-see list. It’s one of those experiences that stays with you long after you’ve left.
And before you worry about it being too strenuous, let me reassure you—the paths are mostly flat and perfect for an easygoing stroll. This walk was perfect even for someone like me, who struggles with asthma. For more adventurous spirits, there are trails leading to more challenging terrain. But you don’t need to be an hiker to take in the beauty and peacefulness of Muir Woods—it’s a treat for everyone.
Our day of adventuring included a few scenic routes, wrapping up perfectly. On Monday, we returned to San Francisco for a photo shoot with my good friend Irina. Before getting in front of the camera, I took Alex to the Giants' baseball stadium, which is one of my absolute favorite spots in San Francisco. It's incredibly nostalgic and, in my opinion, the best stadium there.
Irina is a renowned sports photographer in the Bay Area, primarily known for her work with Sacramento Republic FC. I find it quite challenging to be in front of the camera, and capturing nice photos of me and Alex can be even more difficult. Setting up my tripod again wasn't something I was keen on doing. So, I thought it would be a fantastic idea for us to have our photos taken professionally and to simply enjoy some quality time together. And that’s exactly what we did—had SO MUCH FUN. Alex still says it was his favorite part of our San Francisco trip, and we absolutely LOVE the photos.
We started at The Palace of Fine Arts, which holds a lot of nostalgia for me from childhood trips. Afterward, we headed to Baker Beach, where we had a blast playing in the ocean. We were so fortunate to have clear skies that day, which made the experience even more memorable.
Make sure to follow Irina on Instagram (@stillfragments). If you’re in the Bay Area, definitely reach out to her!
The primary reason for our trip was to visit my Cita, and I couldn't be happier about our decision. Alex and I had the chance to talk and share laughs with her about so many different things. I still smile when I recall how she would squeeze his big muscles and exclaim, "¡Muy grandeee!" When we weren't exploring San Francisco, our days were filled with preparing meals for her and my grandpa, grocery shopping, and, naturally, binge-watching episodes of *The Golden Girls*. Those were some truly priceless moments.
I am incredibly fortunate to have a boyfriend who took personal time off to help care for my Cita and Papa Tito. During this trip, I witnessed an undeniable truth that no one can change: Love gives. Love is not selfish. Love is kind. Love does.
You could see it in Papa Tito's tender care for Cita, in my mom and dad's willingness to be apart to help take care of her, and in Alex, who played chef every day, preparing meals for everyone in the house. I saw it in my dad gently guiding Cita to the couch, in my grandma's request for me to do her nails, and in my mom making coffee runs for everyone.
There is an indescribable peace that comes from knowing your partner's love extends to those you cherish simply because they love you. I am eternally grateful that God brought Alex into my life and allowed us even the briefest time to share moments of talking and laughing together. I may never return to The Bay, but I've chosen to hold on to the beautiful reminders of what love truly does.
When you love someone, the sacrifices you make come without hesitation and without regret.
Love Does.
Te quiero muchísimo, Cita.
Ashley
