Nicole Marie is a frequent contributor and inspiration to Rugged Elegant Living, the online publication designed to inspire healthy, adventuresome, soulful living.

When she grows up, Niki aspires to be a chef. Ever since she was a baby she loved to watch The Food Channel.

Some of Niki's favorite restaurants and cafes in San Francisco are:

Breakfast: Bechelli's in The Marina (she and her sister call the place "Big Shelley's")

Lunch: There is no better place to spend a Saturday or Sunday afternoon than the DeLessio Market before or after indulging in the arts-and-crafts Heaven next door. DeLessio is a casual french-style gourmet cafe. Next door is Flax Art & Design, a heavenly place for creative types of any age. It is also a great place to find wrapping paper, ribbons and gifts for kids who love arts & crafts, rubber stamps, photo albums and journals.

Dinner: Rigolo in Presidio Heights' Laurel Village

Desert: Tango Gelato in Pacific Heights

Of course, what child in San Francisco doesn't love an ice cream cone or hot fudge sundae from Ghirardelli Square?!

Anytime It's Cold: Peet's Coffee & Tea on Fillmore in Pacific Heights for hot cocoa

Favorite Grocery Store: Niki prefers to shop at Whole Foods located at the corner of California and Franklin. At four years of age, she was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, so finding low carb, high protein, organic food is important. After being diagnosed with Celiac Disease at the age of 5, she especially appreciates the delicious Gluten-Free bread, pizza, enchiladas, cookies, crackers and pasta Whole Foods has to offer.

Chinese Take-Out: Niki's favorite food is Chinese. If she could, she would have Melisa's delivered at least once a week.

On January 26th, 2005, Niki turned 7.

For those interested in learning what a seven year-old girl would like for her birthday, please go to The Rugged Elegance World Marketplace.

This link will take you directly to Niki's Boutique.

If online shopping is not yet your thing, two children's toy stores Niki would recommend in San Francisco are: Ambassador Toys in Embarcadero II and in West Portal

The Ark Toy Store on 24th Street in Noe Valley

Mudpie Children's Clothing & Furniture on Union Street in Cow Hollow