Hey Tomatoes…. as I write this, the rain has cleared and the sun is out. Doesn’t it feel like spring is in the air?  A few rogue daffodils have even shown their bright faces in my front planting area. Gotta love Northern California! The SF Botanical Garden is blooming with magnolias, Orchids are on display at Fort Mason and Tulips invade Pier 39. If this month finds you looking for a movie inspired way to give back, check out BayKids Women in Motion Luncheon. You may also realize by now that I love indulgences. Whether massages, mani pedis, facials or any spa treatments, it is VITAL to take care of us. You will want to know about the new app in our area, SOOTHE – massage on demand.

 The Magnolia Bloom. San Francisco Botanical Garden

An enchanting place to visit any time of the year, The Botanical Gardens isn’t just for visitors. Currently The Annual Magnolia Bloom exhibit will brighten even the foggiest of SF days. These bright beauties are even more delightful when you take a guided tour with a magnolia expert. Daytime walking tours of the blooms take place on February 20th and 27th from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. A special evening tour, Magnolias by Moonlight takes place on February 22nd from 6- 8 p.m. View the blossoms as they reflect the silvery moon, and inhale their heady fragrance in the still of the evening. The history of the Garden’s collection will be revealed along with tips on growing your own. Get the details.

February 26-28. Pacific Orchid Expo @Fort Mason Center

Ok, I’m just asking, who doesn’t love orchids? To me, this exquisite plant is perfection. I can’t have enough of them scattered throughout my home and office. If you want to be wowed by this spectacular plant breed, there is no better place than the largest orchid show in the U.S. right in our city by the bay. The annual event held at Fort Mason Center boasts over 150,000 orchids from around the world. Included are docent tours, potting demonstrations, cultivation tips and of course beauties to purchase. Get tickets.

Feb. 13-21. Tulipmania @ Pier 39

You will think you have arrived in Holland when you spot the vibrant colors of the more than 39,000 blooming tulips during Tulipmania at Pier 39. Educate yourself on the how to’s of growing these favorite flowers with a guided or self-guided tour anytime. The dramatic color combinations and the sheer number of tulips will delight your senses as you stroll the pier. Get the details.

March 9. Women In Motion Luncheon Benefits BayKids Studios

BayKids Studios is one of the most unique philanthropies I have come across. Their mission is to “empower children facing medical challenges to express themselves through the art of filmmaking”. Whether the children choose to be actors, directors, scriptwriters, set designers or artists – through filmmaking these children are able to take control of something creative which empowers them and gives them confidence. They see their movies on you tube as well as featured in film festivals and the pride they feel is immense. The program is currently at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital and Children’s Hospital and Research Center Oakland. Women in Motion is an annual fundraiser for the organization featuring stunning move-themed tables and auction items. You will feel as if you are part of the magical world of film at this lively event. This one is for us tomatoes! For tickets and more information click here.

Soothe – Massage on demand 

Ok tomato pals, this is a quick little note to let you know about a relaxing app called Soothe. Modeled on the successful apps such as Uber and Lyft, you can get a massage 7 days a week from 9 a.m. – midnight including holidays. You just sign in and request. CRAZY, I know.  They claim that they can arrive within the hour, but scheduling a bit ahead seems to work best. The male tomato with whom I reside, just had his first massage using the app this weekend and he was hooked. Wonderful massage therapist who gave him the deep tissue work he desired. No tipping allowed so you can float peacefully into dreamland.  What’s not to LOVE! Get the scoop.