As a magazine editor, I was used to working on a holiday calendar that was, shall we say, whacked: Christmas in July, Easter eggs in January, and a slew of Thanksgiving table settings just in time for Valentine's Day! Despite all of that, last week's Halloween shoot for HGTV felt strangely odd, ironic at times, and always full of surprises. Maybe it was racing across the Bay Bridge with Jaithan for a few precious pounds of dry ice, while the marine layer shrouded the city in a thick, insistent fog. Or the trip to the flower market at five in the morning, passing up fresh-cut zinnias and hydrangeas for dried corn stalks and Spanish moss. Odds are, though, it was this: the carving of pumpkins in a sweltering 90 degrees, after which Bill, our super cool DIY-Dad on the show, turned to us and said, "Do you guys want to go for a ride in my plane?"
With our shoot still two days away, this was a chance we couldn't pass up! Off to the Oakland airport we went, and after strapping us in his gleaming new plane...
Bill filled up on fuel.
This would be a perfect evening for flying, he said, looking out from the cockpit, preparing the plane for take-off. Then, after all the necessary checks, we were off!
One word: Privileged. That's the only way I can describe the experience. Everything about it was absolutely stunning! To share with you some of the journey, see that bridge on the horizon?
It's the Bay Bridge leading to Treasure Island with downtown San Francisco in the distance.
Here's the Transamerica Pyramid as I've never seen it...
...after which Bill made a sharp turn for a bird's eye view over the city.
From there, we headed out over the Bay again, first for a glimpse of Alcatraz...
then, to the great Golden Gate beyond.
Truth be told: I'd never seen the Golden Gate before this trip, and as happy as I'd been to snap a picture driving across the day before...
...this was like looking down from the heavens.
Even the light over the Pacific had a beautiful, celestial sort of beauty.
From there, we turned northward to Marin with views of Sausalito and Tiburon below.
Here's the peak of Mount Tamalpais, some 2500 feet above sea level.
What a climb! By the time we reached the top, I was exhausted.
As if the views over San Francisco and the Golden Gate had not been breathtaking enough, Bill then decided to chart a course for one of his favorite spots—Napa Valley! How pretty are the vineyards from the air, like verdant fields in a beautiful patchwork quilt?
After touching down in Napa, and a quick glass of Pinot at the airport(!), the three of us headed back into the air, just as the moon began to rise. The cool blues, greys, and pinks, morphing and deepening at dusk, could have easily inspired the palette for a soothing seaside retreat.
Night fall over Oakland was like a vastly intricate computer chip that went on forever.
There was even a game of baseball (or something like that) at the Oakland Coliseum. How cool is that?
Finally, as Jaithan helped land the plane in the red glimmer of night, and Bill signed off the air, I couldn't help but marvel at all the day's events: Am I really out here doing an HGTV special, and moreover, did I just go to Napa in the homeowner's private plane!?
Privileged? Yes, but even more for the chance to share it with you. Glad to be back, everyone!
You were in my neck of the woods. Love the arial views. The City always looks better at night, but still pretty during the day too. Great pics.
Ciao
Posted by: Glenda | August 24, 2009 at 07:10 PM
Absolutely beautiful - what a treat to see California from the air like that! Thanks for letting us all enjoy it too!
Posted by: NenaghGal | August 24, 2009 at 08:50 AM
I live in the SF Bay Area and I LOVED this post! I've been up in a plane tour over SF once and this brought back memories! It is an amazing view up there!!! I didn't get to go over Napa though!
I think what I loved most about this post though is how grateful and appreciative you are...that really shows what a great person you are!
Posted by: Cindy~My Romantic Home | August 22, 2009 at 12:18 PM
what a lovely experience! and you're such a peach; it's so refreshing to hear someone appreciate and share all of their blessings. y'all are the best!
Posted by: Belle on Heels | August 19, 2009 at 02:14 PM
Eddie and Jaithan...that is just amazing and beautiful. How lucky you both are to see SF in that way!
xo,
annie
Posted by: Firefly Hill | August 17, 2009 at 11:58 PM
Simply beautiful.
Posted by: Jacquelyn | August 17, 2009 at 08:51 PM
Another amazing day in the life of E+J! Loved seeing such amazing pictures of my old hometown. Most of the time it's in the fog!! Welcome home - xoxo, E
Posted by: Elizabeth | August 17, 2009 at 05:42 PM
WOW!!! What an incredible & unforgettable way to tour San Francisco! I'm sure it was an experience you two will never forget. Unexpected surprises are truly the best.... and this one takes the cake! :) Thanks for sharing the photos!
Posted by: Molly | August 17, 2009 at 04:12 PM
Great views! Give me a shout next time you are in the Bay Area! I'd love to get coffee.
Posted by: Julia Walsh | August 17, 2009 at 01:30 PM
What a thrill! I'm looking forward to your HGTV special! If I'd only known I would have looked up and waved from Atlas Peak in Napa!
Posted by: katiedid | August 17, 2009 at 01:18 PM
Oh my...what a great way to travel and see those beautiful sites! I've seen these spots before but never like that. If you're going to do something, you may as well do it right!
Posted by: Jenn | August 17, 2009 at 11:08 AM
I just moved to Boston from SF in Jan...these pics made me miss home sooo much! They are beautiful. Jealous!
Posted by: carlee | August 17, 2009 at 10:04 AM
what will you two get up to next. A great afternoon. So happy for you, how was the glass of wine? I bet even better after the plane ride.
miss you
XOXOXO
Posted by: Shandell's | August 17, 2009 at 08:57 AM
Yeah, you are back with more great posts! What an amazing tour!! That sure is the best way to see the city, I'm very jealous!
Posted by: LindsB | August 17, 2009 at 08:50 AM
Were you in a Cirrus?
My hubs flies a Cirrus and we travel weekly in it. LOVE flying!
My favorite is seeing all the beautiful colors and patterns. I prefer geometric to flowerey, and there is nothing more geomentric than FARMLAND!!!
Posted by: Mary Beth | August 17, 2009 at 03:46 AM
Really? You have to subject me to this again? ;)
XO,
K
Posted by: kelley@kelleylmoore.com | August 17, 2009 at 12:00 AM
These photos are amazing, Eddie. But I am afraid of heights and therefore glad it was you and not me! Glad it was a great time.
Posted by: The Blushing Hostess | August 16, 2009 at 10:36 PM
Congrats you guys. Please tell the pilot he took all of us along on that ride & we are as grateful and appreciative as you are. Please thank him on our behalf.
Posted by: Jane | August 16, 2009 at 08:45 PM
it looks so magical!! i can't wait to see the HGTV special!
Posted by: Sara Jane | August 16, 2009 at 07:57 PM
What a fantastic ride, Eddie. I've been to San Fran twice & just loved it. Fun to see it from the birds-eye view that ya'll had. Can't wait to see the HGTV special.
Posted by: Rhoda @ Southern Hospitality | August 16, 2009 at 04:43 PM
Sweet!!!! Such an amazing adventure!! I love, love, love San Fran and Napa. I can't even imagine how awesome it must have been to see it in a private plane.
Great pictures, to bring it to life for the rest of us!
S
Posted by: Sadaf Trimarchi | August 16, 2009 at 04:10 PM
Teddy K. and I loved this post! Your plane adventure looked magical and I swear we could actually feel the cool temperature in Northern CA, especially as we are sitting here in Q doing the bare mins with the box fans blasting in our faces. Miss you xx
Posted by: Jackie | August 16, 2009 at 02:00 PM
Breathtaking photos Eddie. Thanks for sharing.
Posted by: Shawn | August 16, 2009 at 01:24 PM
Eddie,
I love love love this post! I could hear your voice as I was reading each photo description. I wanted to nudge you to show that I couldn't believe it either. But I wasn't there neither were you! Gosh dare it!
This was like a movie full of suspense and anticipation. Really glad you and Jaithan had a great time and are back safe and sound.
Bette
Posted by: Bette | August 16, 2009 at 01:23 PM
Wow! I feel "privileged" that you shared these, Eddie.
I had forgotten how beautiful the San Francisco area is and your beautiful "pics" makes me want to plan another visit!
Thanks for sharing-
Posted by: Melinda | August 16, 2009 at 12:19 PM
Wow!! The picture of Napa is beautiful (my favorite). Course I love Napa!
I got a private airplane ride when I was 16-- for a celebration. It is a time I will never forget.
Posted by: Carrie | August 16, 2009 at 12:13 PM
Beautiful, just beautiful. Love the Bay area, but have never seen it from this angle. The bridge photos are perfect. I had to save them onto my computer.
Posted by: Carey | August 16, 2009 at 12:07 PM
Eddie,
Simply stunning photographs! I think it is the most beautiful city on earth- Easily see why for so many, SF is the ultimate muse. Thank you for a lovely pictorial start to my Sunday! Got me closer to heaven... (when I should be sitting in church!)
I've been enjoying your blog so much! You have a gift.
Posted by: gina | August 16, 2009 at 11:48 AM
wowsa!! My husband is a commercial pilot, but when we were dating he took us for a ride in a sessna from Tacoma to Gig Harbour Wa. for lunch at a runway diner. There is something magical about arriving by plane, after taking in a birds eye view of the world. My kids were not even big enough to see over the dashboard, but Brian let them fly the plane...well, we have been married 13 years...
The night shots are great as well...from that angle, the horizon looks arched!!
Looks like your day was amazing! Thanks for sharing :)
Best,
Michelle
Posted by: michelle | August 16, 2009 at 11:17 AM
WOW. Where is the air sickness bag? You two are so brave. Thanks for the tour and the great photos. ♥Rosemary
Posted by: Content in a Cottage | August 16, 2009 at 11:08 AM
Thanks for sharing these photos with us! I can't imagine how breathtaking the views must have been. What a once in a lifetime opportunity!
Posted by: Design Esquire | August 16, 2009 at 10:19 AM
What a wonderful day! Thank you for sharing with us. The photos are spectacular and you made me feel like I was there.
Posted by: Pamela Colson | August 16, 2009 at 10:18 AM
pretty amazing... a plane?!!!!! wow
we can't wait to see you guys too!!!! the outside of my house is frightening, i must warn you!!! hahaha can't wait!!!!
xoxoxoox
Posted by: Lauren Liess | August 16, 2009 at 10:17 AM
I occasionally go flying with a friend, and there is just no feeling like it, to have that amazing point of view!!
Posted by: Karena | August 16, 2009 at 10:17 AM
I love this post so much it inspired my post for today.
Welcome home.
Posted by: The Countess of Nassau County | August 16, 2009 at 10:14 AM
Luckiest Man alive!
Posted by: Janet Doherty | August 16, 2009 at 09:55 AM
Beautiful. Of all the great places to see by plane, SF is right up there. I've had a glass of wine at the airport in Napa too. :)
Posted by: Kate@ Kids and Cocktails | August 16, 2009 at 09:24 AM
Wow! I haven't been to SF in so long and this really makes my heart beat fast. I can't wait to go in the next year or so. You had a very priviliged view of the city and the surrounding area -- beautiful, as the two of you are. Can't wait to meet you next month.
Posted by: Anne | August 16, 2009 at 07:51 AM
I love the pictures! You really can get a feel for the enormity of a city by seeing it from above. "I left my heart in San Fransico" many years ago. If you get the chance, get to the Golden Gate Park! The grounds are beautiful!
Posted by: Loren | August 16, 2009 at 07:22 AM
Your pictures are incredible! I look forward to your Halloween special.
Posted by: Paula | August 16, 2009 at 07:09 AM
San Francisco is amazing as are all the smaller cities you mentioned. I loved seeing you and Jaithan in this heavenly adventure, and thrilled that I got to experience a wee bit of it with you. Living not too far away this is a well traveled area for me, but I've never seen it like this, thank you for the wonderful tour.
Posted by: Rhonda Irizarry | August 16, 2009 at 06:40 AM
Well how fun was that??! What an amazing treat to see Cali that way! Looking forward to your Halloween special!
Posted by: Linda@Lime in the coconut | August 16, 2009 at 06:20 AM
Hi Eddie, wow you slipped the surly bonds of Earth and danced the skys on laughter silvered wings! The massive Golden Gate Bridge looks no more that a small golden ribbon stretched across a sea of pure blue from those heights. As bleak as Alcatraz Island seems, there are some beautiful gardens there. Thanks for sharing and it is indeed a privilege! Ciao
Posted by: ralphie | August 16, 2009 at 02:26 AM
Eddie & Jaithan, this pictures are unbelievable! Welcome back to the East Coast and back to our beautiful Hudson Valley -
Posted by: Dana | August 15, 2009 at 11:20 PM
Loved the visuals here, and especially the words to describe the experience. The glass of wine pit stop sealed the deal.
Posted by: seleta | August 15, 2009 at 11:08 PM
I absolutely love San Francisco, and your pictures showcase it beautifully!
Posted by: Shana | August 15, 2009 at 10:55 PM
Thanks for sharinf fantastic photos with us. What an experience.
X
V
Posted by: viera | August 15, 2009 at 10:51 PM
WOW..breathtaking pictures!
Posted by: Tamstyles | August 15, 2009 at 10:51 PM
Thanks so much for sharing..gorgeous trip! Hope all goes well with the shoot.
Posted by: mary | August 15, 2009 at 10:37 PM
Cool!!! This kind of experience might be a once of a lifetime and it's totally awesome!
I wanted to be a pilot when I was in middle school and the walls in my bedroom were plastered with pictures of planes. your post brought those memories back.
Posted by: Irina | August 15, 2009 at 10:25 PM
Wow! That looked amazing. San Francisco is our favorite place (so far) and seeing it from above must have been divine. Thanks for sharing. (Now, it's time for a glass of wine.)
Posted by: Kim | August 15, 2009 at 10:07 PM
These pictures are beautiful. I've never seen the Golden Gate from that angle with all the clouds. Fabulous
Posted by: Heather @ what's blooming this week | August 15, 2009 at 09:53 PM
Eddie, What a fantastic experience that must have been. I have flowm into San Fanscisco in a commercial jet and coming in over that vast expanse of water is honestly breathtaking. Thanks for sharing and have a wonderful weekend.
Charla
Posted by: Charla @ For the Sake of Time | August 15, 2009 at 09:51 PM
Oh my, so beautiful...thank you...thank you....you really are the best
Posted by: nina v | August 15, 2009 at 09:44 PM
What a magical evening! Luck you guys!
Posted by: pigtown*design | August 15, 2009 at 09:10 PM
Gosh, that looks utterly amazing, but I probably would be crapping my pants. I always worry about small planes and dead Kennedys and such. So I am doubly thrilled that you had such a monumentally awesome time. What a photo of the bay bridge!! I agree- celestial! And a little trip to Napa - nothing beats flying out to Napa for a drink.
Too cool Eddie - thanks for sharing!
xo Terri
Posted by: Terri | August 15, 2009 at 08:58 PM
Absolutely INCREDIBLE!!! Thanks so much for sharing!
Posted by: Lillian | August 15, 2009 at 08:49 PM
Eddie...just beautiful.... how lucky..and the best part..you knew you were lucky..you're such a humble person...how refreshing...
thank you for sharing those pictures with us. I am from the bay area now living south from there in San Luis Obispo..but how i love the city....
what lovely pictures....
looking forward to the Halloween special...
don't tell anyone..but i set out a little bit of Halloween today...
Best to you and Jaithan,
Kary
Posted by: Kary Gonyer | August 15, 2009 at 08:44 PM
Thanks for sharing, Eddie! Seeing beautiful San Fran from that perspective was a real treat! Looking forward to your special.
Posted by: Lori | August 15, 2009 at 08:40 PM
Awesome photos - looks like an experience you'll never forget! Welcome back
Posted by: girl, inspired | August 15, 2009 at 08:25 PM
eddie, I can't believe you were 45 min. away from me and I was not even home. How does that saying go, " So close , yet so far". So glad you had a wonderful heavenly view of the city and Napa. We do live in a beautiful area. Glad you had a wonderful trip, looking forward to the special on HGTV.Hugs Kathysue
Posted by: Kathysue | August 15, 2009 at 08:09 PM
What a wonderful trip for you two! I used to live in the Bay Area and you truly got to enjoy some amazing views. Those photos should be framed as a reminder of the day... especially the one over the Golden Gate. Very kind of the pilot/homeowner to take you. Thanks for sharing your day!
Posted by: Rebecca | August 15, 2009 at 08:07 PM
Thank you soo much for sharing such a magical day, with lots of love from Miami,
xoxo
Posted by: Lizette Marolf | August 15, 2009 at 07:58 PM
That was something to behold. Thank you for taking us along. Beautiful photos indeed. I will admit to more than a smidge of jealousy!
Posted by: Kathryn H | August 15, 2009 at 07:49 PM
Hi Guys - what *awesome* pics., thanks so much for sharing them with us!! LOVE your site!!
Posted by: Valerie | August 15, 2009 at 07:26 PM
Welcome back I've missed you!! And what a comeback! I don't think I have ever seen such beauty. thank you so much for sharing. I hope you remind us when your shows will be airing. Have a great week.
Posted by: Judy | August 15, 2009 at 07:25 PM
Fantastic pictures! Thanks so much.I love reliving the 'good years' when traveling was my vocation.San Francisco was one of my favorite places to fly.
Posted by: Donna | August 15, 2009 at 07:20 PM
Thanks for sharing! What I like best was the underlying current of how grateful you are for where you are and the good things coming your way!
Keep it coming!
Peggy in Atlanta
Posted by: peggy taylor | August 15, 2009 at 07:17 PM
These pictures are fabulous. Looks like you all had a wonderful trip! Can't wait to see more...
Posted by: Laura Casey | August 15, 2009 at 07:10 PM
Thank you so much for sharing. For those of us hit hard by the economy and unable to travel, your photos were such a breath of fresh air (pun intended). Thanks for taking us along!
Posted by: Allison Taylor | August 15, 2009 at 06:58 PM
What a treat. Can't wait to see the special.
Posted by: Mrs. Blandings | August 15, 2009 at 06:46 PM
I'm glad you are back, too. Two years ago I got to spend Halloween in the Cole Valley section of San Francisco. My daughter lived there, and we had fun seeing how they pull out all of the stops for that particular holiday.
Then, last year, I rode my bicycle from Portland, OR to Newport Beach, CA. I rode through Napa and across the Golden Gate Bridge. Cycling, too, is a great way to see the area.
Posted by: Jay | August 15, 2009 at 06:21 PM
Wonderful, beautiful photos. I particularly love the ones with the Golden Gate Bridge peeking through the clouds. It is also wonderful how you appreciate your good fortune.
Posted by: Val | August 15, 2009 at 06:15 PM
Please excuse my disconbublated comment from before. I was distracted. Anyway, your pictures are gorgeous! It seems like you had a very VIP tour of beautiful San Francisco.
Posted by: Paloma {LaDolceVita} | August 15, 2009 at 06:09 PM
Eddie, this pictures are amazing! That is definitely a VIP tour! I love San Francisco.
Posted by: Paloma {LaDolceVita | August 15, 2009 at 06:08 PM