Yet another Valentine’s Day. As I mentioned last year, I’m not a fan of the Hallmark side of the holiday, but I do enjoy the opportunity to reflect on who (and what) I love.

Valentine’s Day also has a bit of significance for me as it was the day moved to Phoenix four years ago. And while the city remains a frustrating enigma in many respects, it will always have a special place in my heart, as the city that helped me find my true passion and calling in life—urbanism.

So in commemoration of my 4th anniversary in the city, as well as St. Valentine, here is my second annual “I ❤ Phoenix” list.

1. Cruising on my bicycle along the Valley’s pre-historic canals;
2. Noshing on Short Leash Hotdogs deep-fried pickles;
3. Cowering with creatives at Co+Hoots;
4. Checking out great MCM furniture at Phoenix Metro Retro;
5. Making my voice heard at Phoenix City Hall meetings!
6. Appreciating Phoenix’s Mid Century heritage by reading MidCentury Marvels and participation in the Modern Phoenix Home Tour;
7. Learning about the ins and outs of car maintenance from Bogi, my neighborhood master mechanic at 180 Automotive;
8. Finding unique handmade housewives at Practical Arts;
9. Listening to the smooth surf rock stylings of The Surfside IV at some of the most unique venues in town—including the Desert Botanical Gardens and Phoenix Metro Retro;
10. Lunching on a soppressata sandwich at Pane Bianco;
11. Enjoying hilarious long-form improv with the Torch Theater;
12. Sipping a Dark ‘n’ Stormy at Rum Bar at the Breadfruit;
13. Connecting with other Phoenix urbanites at Rogue Green, Get Your Phx, Radiate FX and Places Spaces & Faces;
14. Enjoying a craft beer and an independent film at the newly opened FilmBar.