Shirley was really the consummate Airbnb hostess - gracious, generous and kind, both to me and my little dog Katie. Over the course of our stay here, it became Katie's objective whenever we were outside to try to escape my attention long enough to run up the deck stairs to Shirley’s house and eat her cat Daisy’s food and maybe say hi to her dog Chumley. Shirley never complained about these visits, and would often give Katie treats. She also treated me many times to wine and snacks.

I spent the winter months with Shirley to escape the Midwest weather and to familiarize myself with living in Southern California which my sons already call home. Shirley’s neighborhood, South Park, is a quiet, safe area and her canyon hideaway apartment is lovely. There is a separate entrance to the apartment, so one can have as much privacy, peace and quiet here as you like - though when you encounter Shirley she’s always upbeat and willing to chat.

I started most days walking with Katie in the neighborhood (and often being greeted by the friendly neighbors) and sitting in Shirley's backyard garden reading and enjoying the canyon views. I really enjoyed seeing all of the spring flowers come to bloom here.

Though I did eat at several of the local eateries (all quite good, and most dog friendly), there are a few small markets close by (and larger stores close by), and the apartment is fully equipped with a refrigerator, stove, microwave and dishwasher so I was able to prepare meals at home and really settle in. Most days Katie and I also made a trip to the dog park on Grape Street where you can expect to meet many friendly Californians.

The apartment is clean and cozy. The bed is comfortable, the shower works great, there’s plenty of closet space, good TV and internet, I already told you about the kitchen - well, really, what more do you need? There is a nice fireplace that came in handy earlier in my stay - and later, when it got warm, the apartment stayed very comfortable even without air conditioning.

I am sad to have to leave, but since I plan on coming back to San Diego to stay, I also plan to stay in touch with Shirley as I'm pretty sure we’re going to miss her. Daisy and Chumley too. We had a wonderful time and I'm so glad we got to stay here!