The Learning Curve

"The Learning Curve" is a commonly used phrase, usually when referring to a new job or career.  As we know, it takes time to learn a new set of skills, develop best practices, to "learn the ropes" as they say.  Well I'm pretty sure there's also a learning curve when it comes to living in a new city.  Especially one called San Francisco.  In the short time we've been here, there has definitely been some major adjusting to do, and like with everything in life, we're learning.  If I had the ability to give myself a few pointers about life in SF, before arriving from Southern California, I already have some sage advice I would've given myself.  Just a few helpful pointers. :)

1. Don't ever expect to have cute hair.  Period.  (This is primarily due to the wind, fog, mist, and wind that are so prevalent in the city.  And yes, I know I listed 'wind' twice.)

2. If you absolutely insist upon wearing lip gloss, don't apply it until you've reached your destination.  (this is if you're walking, taking the muni, or a street car.  If you're driving, this rule does not apply.  This tip is actually related to tip #1.)

3. Layers, layers, layers.  It is no longer adequate to wear one layer of clothing, consisting of a tank top, shorts & flip flops, and expect it to last from morning, to noon, to night.  Rather, a morning layer that can be removed while walking, then put back on after your sweat has dried, then perhaps an additional layer of warmth for nightfall...yes, that just might be enough.

4. If (and only if) you move into an apartment with no dishwasher, feel free to sell most of your kitchen tools, dishes and glassware.  You will only use the same 2 items that are either found in the sink or on the drying rack.

5. If (and only if) you move into an apartment with coin-operated laundry in the basement of the building, quickly begin to study people's habits.  Lugging a heavy load of dirty laundry down 4 flights of stairs only to find that the single shared wash machine is full, while a good form of exercise, is not that fun.  

6. If you have a dog, either find an apartment that allows dogs, or don't have a dog.  (This tip seems obvious, but can be explained in more detail upon request.)

7. Practice your parking skills.  Although we have a small car, our parking garage space allows approximately 1.5 inches of space on each side of the car, and that's with the side mirrors pulled in.

8. Be wary of parking garages.  And by this I mean, don't forget to read the pricing structure of a parking garage before entering.  You might find yourself happily heading home from a movie, only to find out you owe $20.00 in parking fees.

9. Always have cash for the tolls.  This is also a pointer for anyone driving into the city for a visit.  Not being a regular commuter on this route, it would be easy not to know about the toll, or that it takes only cash.  If you tell the cashier that you only have plastic and he waves you on with a smile, he's not being nice or charitable.  You will promptly receive a hefty fine in the mail.

And #10- be adaptable.  As with anything in life, we weigh the pros and cons, take the good with the bad, and make our own decisions on how we want to live.  Although we're learning and adjusting, and will be for quite some time, it's so worth it to be living in such an amazing place, and I truly believe it builds character.

p.s. I have a newly found appreciation for brother Peter's ability to live on a small boat for almost 4 years. Both amazing and impressive!