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Parks, Beach, and Family in SF (Day 3)

That previous day’s adventures were quite extensive and included two of the three CitySightseeing Bus Tours of SF – today we’d take in the third and final route, which went west through the Golden Gate Park and to the ocean shore, and then back again.  It was also exciting as my cousin Wendy lives up in this area (near Santa Rosa) with her husband and I haven’t seen her in forever nor even met Randy.  So this was going to be a good last full day in San Francisco.

29 Aug SF Photo MapYou can see from this map that we were heading through slightly different territory on this day, and it was a whole lot of stuff I’d not seen before in any of my trips to San Francisco.  Let’s begin!

Day Start and Victorian Home Overload

I didn’t mean to go nuts taking pictures of every Victorian home I saw while driving through San Francisco, but that does seem to be what I did.  They’re just so beautiful to look at.  I imagine it costs an arm and a leg to live in one!

Anyway, we had breakfast again at the Sears diner and it was of course good yet again.  We picked up the Purple Line bus at Union Square again and while the route does have an overlap with the Red Line (going through Tenderloin and by the City Hall building), it then veers west into the neighborhood areas you see in the pictures below.  It’s pretty awesome.

That's looking towards the top of the Sir Francis Drake hotelThat's looking towards the top of the Sir Francis Drake hotel
That's looking towards the top of the Sir Francis Drake hotel29-Aug-2015 11:57, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 5.3, 14.9mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
The Starlight Room is behind those windowsThe Starlight Room is behind those windows
The Starlight Room is behind those windows29-Aug-2015 11:57, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 6.3, 40.9mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 11:57, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.0, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 12:03, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.0, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 12:03, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.8, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
Top of the City HallTop of the City Hall
Top of the City Hall29-Aug-2015 12:08, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 5.6, 20.9mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
Interesting architecture around townInteresting architecture around town
Interesting architecture around town29-Aug-2015 12:11, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.5, 10.7mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 12:11, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.5, 10.7mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 12:12, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.5, 5.4mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 12:12, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.8, 5.4mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
Lots of Victorian houses aheadLots of Victorian houses ahead
Lots of Victorian houses ahead29-Aug-2015 12:13, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.8, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 12:14, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 12:14, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.5, 5.4mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 12:14, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 5.0, 5.4mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 12:14, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 

Conservatory of Flowers / Entering Golden Gate Park

During the tour, we learned quite a lot about how Golden Gate Park came to be.  San Francisco wanted something like what other major cities had, a giant green space in the middle of the city.  Think Central Park.  But when they would get any kind of Park expert to be a consultant or project lead, the city council would be repeatedly told that the climate was impossible for the kind of park they’re dreaming of.  Finally, they found an Scotsman, John MacLaren, who agreed to take on the challenge of making a green space where the environment really didn’t want one.  He ended up creating quite an amazing enclave of nature with extensive amounts of non-native trees and flora that really does help it stand next to parks like NYC’s Central Park.  Here’s a Wikipedia link all about Golden Gate Park – it’s a lot more fascinating than you’d think.  The little bit of info that kind of surprised me was that if the city stopped taking care of the park and watering it, the entire park would die in about 18 months since nature would win out and return the area to how it was.

Anyway, Pictures of the Conservatory of Flowers!  Larry & I didn’t get off the bus at this attraction and will have to make a return trip one day.  Just way tooo much to see here.

29-Aug-2015 12:22, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.5, 10.7mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125
Approaching the Conservatory of FlowersApproaching the Conservatory of Flowers
Approaching the Conservatory of Flowers29-Aug-2015 12:22, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 6.0, 24.7mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 12:22, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.5, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 12:23, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 5.6, 14.9mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
We didn't make it in there this tripWe didn't make it in there this trip
We didn't make it in there this trip29-Aug-2015 12:23, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.8, 7.6mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 12:23, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.5, 7.6mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
The De Young Museum and Observation TowerThe De Young Museum and Observation Tower
The De Young Museum and Observation Tower29-Aug-2015 12:25, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.0, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 12:25, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
A Keith Haring sculptureA Keith Haring sculpture
A Keith Haring sculpture29-Aug-2015 12:26, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 5.3, 17.6mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125
 
Something was going on at the cafe, but it wasn't clear whatSomething was going on at the cafe, but it wasn't clear what
Something was going on at the cafe, but it wasn't clear what29-Aug-2015 12:26, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 5.6, 20.9mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 125
Passing by the Japanese Tea GardensPassing by the Japanese Tea Gardens
Passing by the Japanese Tea Gardens29-Aug-2015 12:28, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.2, 7.6mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 12:28, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.2, 7.6mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
Heading deeper into Golden Gate ParkHeading deeper into Golden Gate Park
Heading deeper into Golden Gate Park29-Aug-2015 12:32, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.8, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 12:32, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
One of the Dutch Windmills found in the parkOne of the Dutch Windmills found in the park
One of the Dutch Windmills found in the park29-Aug-2015 12:37, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.2, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 

As you’ll see in the pictures above, there’s also some shots of the De Young museum and viewing platform and the Japanese Tea Garden – both of those Larry & I would go and visit a little bit later in the day.  I wanted to take the ride on the bus out to the ocean first, then on the bus’ return journey through Golden Gate Park, disembark then and explore on foot that area.  Oh yeah, right when you get to the coast, there are some cool Danish windmills.

Ocean Beach

Frankly, one does not simply think of the ocean when one thinks of San Francisco – one thinks of the BAY.   But obviously if you have a map, you can see a huge stretch of San Francisco is on the ocean.  I honestly think it’s more of a local’s place, as the beach really just looks like any other beach, that is if you’re used to California beaches.  What was neat was when we drove north from Golden Gate Park, you go up an incline and can then see a distant view of the Golden Gate Bridge.  It was a bit foggy at this time, but it was still a sight.

And we're at the beach!And we're at the beach!
And we're at the beach!29-Aug-2015 12:37, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.8, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 12:37, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.8, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
More specifically, this is Ocean BeachMore specifically, this is Ocean Beach
More specifically, this is Ocean Beach29-Aug-2015 12:37, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 5.3, 17.6mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 12:42, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 125
A distant view of the Golden Gate bridgeA distant view of the Golden Gate bridge
A distant view of the Golden Gate bridge29-Aug-2015 12:42, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.5, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 12:43, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 5.0, 14.9mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 12:43, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 5.0, 14.9mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
Foggy stillFoggy still
Foggy still29-Aug-2015 12:43, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 6.0, 24.7mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
Yay zoomYay zoom
Yay zoom29-Aug-2015 12:43, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 6.3, 67.8mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 12:43, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 6.3, 40.9mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 12:43, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.8, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
Looking back towards the oceanLooking back towards the ocean
Looking back towards the ocean29-Aug-2015 12:44, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 12:45, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.2, 7.6mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 12:45, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.8, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 12:46, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.0, 6.4mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 

The De Young Museum and Viewing Platform

We hopped off the tour bus back when it was in Golden Gate Park near the main museum area.  It actually stopped right in front of the California Academy of Sciences, which we did not visit.  Another one for the next time!  But I did want to go up on that Viewing Platform by the De Young Museum – and best thing about it was it was free!  It has some nice views of the Park area right around it and you can just see parts of the city too.

Looking towards Sutro Tower from Golden Gate ParkLooking towards Sutro Tower from Golden Gate Park
Looking towards Sutro Tower from Golden Gate Park29-Aug-2015 13:00, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 6.3, 48.4mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
Outside the California Academy of Sciences MuseumOutside the California Academy of Sciences Museum
Outside the California Academy of Sciences Museum29-Aug-2015 13:03, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
Bye Bus!Bye Bus!
Bye Bus!29-Aug-2015 13:05, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.2, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 13:05, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
Larry is ready for our Park ExplorationLarry is ready for our Park Exploration
Larry is ready for our Park Exploration29-Aug-2015 13:06, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
Heading to the De Young Tower firstHeading to the De Young Tower first
Heading to the De Young Tower first29-Aug-2015 13:06, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.0, 6.4mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
The bandshell is in the backgroundThe bandshell is in the background
The bandshell is in the background29-Aug-2015 13:07, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 13:07, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.2, 7.6mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
There's a platform on top of the Sciences museumThere's a platform on top of the Sciences museum
There's a platform on top of the Sciences museum29-Aug-2015 13:08, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.8, 12.6mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 13:09, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 125
It's an interesting structure that the De Young Museum lives inIt's an interesting structure that the De Young Museum lives in
It's an interesting structure that the De Young Museum lives in29-Aug-2015 13:09, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 125
The view from the De Young Tower is pretty greatThe view from the De Young Tower is pretty great
The view from the De Young Tower is pretty great29-Aug-2015 13:16, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 125
 
Panorama for you from up topPanorama for you from up top
Panorama for you from up top29-Aug-2015 13:16, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 5.2mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 140
What it looks like inside the platformWhat it looks like inside the platform
What it looks like inside the platform29-Aug-2015 13:17, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 5.2mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 125
Looking towards the Sciences Museum and Sutro TowerLooking towards the Sciences Museum and Sutro Tower
Looking towards the Sciences Museum and Sutro Tower29-Aug-2015 13:17, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 5.2mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 125
 

The Sculpture Garden Area of the De Young Museum

This area by the De Young Museum Cafe was all free to just wander around in.  There were some surprising pieces by very well-known artists – Larry immediately noticed the Keith Haring colorful dancers out front and got excited when he saw a giant Claes Oldenburg sculpture.  I kind of geeked out seeing a Calder in the wild.  That link I just added also included Turrell, which to my surprise, is also something that is present here in the garden.  It’s a Skyspace and the small cylindrical chamber fits 15 or so comfortably and has a big skylight up top which is very opaque and vivid.  But then if you stand in the middle of the chamber and speak, the acoustics seem to shutter the sound to your ears while everyone around hears the sound just fine.  Interesting.

The Keith Haring sculpture from the groundThe Keith Haring sculpture from the ground
The Keith Haring sculpture from the ground29-Aug-2015 13:26, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.5, 10.7mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 13:26, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 5.3, 17.6mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 125
Claes Oldenburg made this giant safety pinClaes Oldenburg made this giant safety pin
Claes Oldenburg made this giant safety pin29-Aug-2015 13:28, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 13:28, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
A Calder structure!A Calder structure!
A Calder structure!29-Aug-2015 13:29, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 13:29, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
Inside Turrell's SkybridgeInside Turrell's Skybridge
Inside Turrell's Skybridge29-Aug-2015 13:31, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
When you stand and speak in that central spot, the sound is very muffledWhen you stand and speak in that central spot, the sound is very muffled
When you stand and speak in that central spot, the sound is very muffled29-Aug-2015 13:31, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.02 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 13:31, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 13:34, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 13:34, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 13:34, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 13:35, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 13:35, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 13:35, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 125
 

The Japanese Tea Garden

This attraction was very high on Larry’s list and happily it was all right in the same area as the De Young museum – it was actually right next to it.  The bus tour guide had let everyone know that it’s very nice to get some tea and cookies while there – so of course we did that and got some delicious green tea and fortune cookies!  After our needed midday snack, we wandered the gorgeous grounds of the Japanese garden.  Very stunning.

Off to the Japanese Tea GardenOff to the Japanese Tea Garden
Off to the Japanese Tea Garden29-Aug-2015 13:39, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 13:39, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 13:40, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 125
 
That pavilion is where you get to drink tea and eat snacksThat pavilion is where you get to drink tea and eat snacks
That pavilion is where you get to drink tea and eat snacks29-Aug-2015 13:41, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 13:41, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 125
First a perilous stream crossingFirst a perilous stream crossing
First a perilous stream crossing29-Aug-2015 13:41, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 13:41, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 13:42, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 125
Inside the dining pavilionInside the dining pavilion
Inside the dining pavilion29-Aug-2015 13:43, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 13:45, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 250
29-Aug-2015 13:46, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 400
Mmm...green tea and cookiesMmm...green tea and cookies
Mmm...green tea and cookies29-Aug-2015 13:47, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 200
 
29-Aug-2015 13:47, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 400
29-Aug-2015 13:47, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 400
This bridge is very popular to try to climbThis bridge is very popular to try to climb
This bridge is very popular to try to climb29-Aug-2015 14:07, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.2, 7.6mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 125
 

Waiting For the Next Tour Bus

We had to kill some time at this point as it didn’t make sense to not use our hop-on/hop-off tickets to get a ride back to Union Square.  Here’s some pics from during that waiting period and upon getting on the bus and leaving the park.

29-Aug-2015 14:37, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 15:22, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 5.3, 17.6mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 125
Back on the bus to complete the Parks & Beach tourBack on the bus to complete the Parks & Beach tour
Back on the bus to complete the Parks & Beach tour29-Aug-2015 15:23, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125
 
Heading back towards the Conservatory of FlowersHeading back towards the Conservatory of Flowers
Heading back towards the Conservatory of Flowers29-Aug-2015 15:24, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.8, 12.6mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 15:25, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.0, 6.4mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
The dwelling built for John McLaren - the chief force behind the Park's existenceThe dwelling built for John McLaren - the chief force behind the Park's existence
The dwelling built for John McLaren - the chief force behind the Park's existence29-Aug-2015 15:28, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.8, 12.6mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125
 

Haight / Ashbury

The height of the 1960s SF culture was centered around this very eclectic neighborhood.  Driving through nowadays, it feels a lot like LA’s Melrose Avenue area with all the tourists and hipsters and overall sense of “anything goes.”

Now we're in the Haight district - very Melrose-y and hipsteryNow we're in the Haight district - very Melrose-y and hipstery
Now we're in the Haight district - very Melrose-y and hipstery29-Aug-2015 15:30, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 5.0, 14.9mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 15:30, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.0, 5.4mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 15:31, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 15:32, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
Where Jimi Hendrix once livedWhere Jimi Hendrix once lived
Where Jimi Hendrix once lived29-Aug-2015 15:33, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
The legendary Haight-Ashbury intersectionThe legendary Haight-Ashbury intersection
The legendary Haight-Ashbury intersection29-Aug-2015 15:33, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 6.3, 48.4mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 15:34, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.2, 7.6mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 15:34, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.5, 10.7mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 125
Apparently Piedmont Boutique is the drag queen mecca for suppliesApparently Piedmont Boutique is the drag queen mecca for supplies
Apparently Piedmont Boutique is the drag queen mecca for supplies29-Aug-2015 15:34, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 5.3, 17.6mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 15:34, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 15:35, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
Victorians againVictorians again
Victorians again29-Aug-2015 15:35, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 15:36, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.5, 10.7mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 15:40, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 15:44, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 5.0, 14.9mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125
 

Back to the Drake

It was a good afternoon excursion but it was time to get back to the hotel and get ready for our evening.  First though, we finally partook in the Kimpton Hotel tradition of 5-6pm complimentary wine + sangria hour.  Yay!

The Sir Francis Drake HotelThe Sir Francis Drake Hotel
The Sir Francis Drake Hotel29-Aug-2015 15:59, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 15:59, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
Inside the lobby areaInside the lobby area
Inside the lobby area29-Aug-2015 16:01, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 125
 
Sunlight view from our room's windowSunlight view from our room's window
Sunlight view from our room's window29-Aug-2015 16:05, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 16:06, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 16:06, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.0, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 16:06, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.2, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
My camera can zoom in pretty close from way up highMy camera can zoom in pretty close from way up high
My camera can zoom in pretty close from way up high29-Aug-2015 16:51, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 6.4, 135.0mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 125
Also able to zoom in to Union SquareAlso able to zoom in to Union Square
Also able to zoom in to Union Square29-Aug-2015 16:52, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 6.4, 162.0mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 250
 
29-Aug-2015 17:02, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.05 sec, ISO 400
Kimpton Hotels have a complimentary wine hour every day -yay!Kimpton Hotels have a complimentary wine hour every day -yay!
Kimpton Hotels have a complimentary wine hour every day -yay!29-Aug-2015 17:02, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 180
29-Aug-2015 17:02, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.5, 9.0mm, 0.04 sec, ISO 400
 
29-Aug-2015 17:02, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 17:04, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 125
Us in the mirror directly across from usUs in the mirror directly across from us
Us in the mirror directly across from us29-Aug-2015 17:04, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 6.4, 162.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 450
 

To North Beach, via Chinatown

Wendy & I worked out where to meet for dinner and we ended up choosing an Italian place up in North Beach, which is San Francisco’s “Little Italy.”  To get there from our hotel, you could Uber, but Larry & I are always up for a good walk and when the weather was as nice as it was that weekend, and the walk is about a mile or so, you do the walk.  As we went through Chinatown, I remembered that this had to be the route that I walked with my Aunts Mary & Helen that long ago trip we took to SF and we had the walk of all walks.  Fun times!

Walking through Chinatown and the Dragon GateWalking through Chinatown and the Dragon Gate
Walking through Chinatown and the Dragon Gate29-Aug-2015 17:28, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 17:28, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 125
Along Grant Ave heading north through ChinatownAlong Grant Ave heading north through Chinatown
Along Grant Ave heading north through Chinatown29-Aug-2015 17:30, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.2, 7.6mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 17:31, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 17:31, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 17:37, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 125
 
Quite an elaborate CitibankQuite an elaborate Citibank
Quite an elaborate Citibank29-Aug-2015 17:38, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 125
 

North Beach

We made it up there and there is quite a stunning view of the Transamerica Building from that neighborhood, so of course pictures were taken!

At Columbus & Broadway, the view of the Transamerica building is pretty awesomeAt Columbus & Broadway, the view of the Transamerica building is pretty awesome
At Columbus & Broadway, the view of the Transamerica building is pretty awesome29-Aug-2015 17:45, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.2, 7.6mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 17:45, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.2, 7.6mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 17:46, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.8, 12.6mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 
Here in North Beach (Little Italy) is where we met up with Cousin WendyHere in North Beach (Little Italy) is where we met up with Cousin Wendy
Here in North Beach (Little Italy) is where we met up with Cousin Wendy29-Aug-2015 17:47, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 17:50, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 125
 

Dinner with Wendy & Randy

Of course, today’s highlight was getting to spend time with my cousin Wendy.  I can’t really remember the actual last time I saw her.  I know for sure I saw Wendy & Richard at my promotion to Captain party back in Las Vegas – but I really hope that wasn’t the last time.  I remember a time going up to Hanford with my dad & Pat to see Uncle Steve – but I’m not sure we actually got to see each other then (just read the post – I guess we didn’t).  Crazy how time flies.

Larry in the sun at IL Casaro PizzeriaLarry in the sun at IL Casaro Pizzeria
Larry in the sun at IL Casaro Pizzeria29-Aug-2015 17:52, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.02 sec, ISO 125
29-Aug-2015 17:52, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.02 sec, ISO 125
Across the street from the Stinking RoseAcross the street from the Stinking Rose
Across the street from the Stinking Rose29-Aug-2015 17:57, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 125
 
29-Aug-2015 18:00, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 220
Montepulciano was on the menu that nightMontepulciano was on the menu that night
Montepulciano was on the menu that night29-Aug-2015 18:01, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 200
29-Aug-2015 18:01, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 280
 
Cousin Wendy and LarryCousin Wendy and Larry
Cousin Wendy and Larry29-Aug-2015 18:44, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.05 sec, ISO 400
Me and Randy, Wendy's husbandMe and Randy, Wendy's husband
Me and Randy, Wendy's husband29-Aug-2015 18:44, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 400
Barnes cousins reunitedBarnes cousins reunited
Barnes cousins reunited29-Aug-2015 18:45, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.05 sec, ISO 400
 
A picture of the 4 of us before leavingA picture of the 4 of us before leaving
A picture of the 4 of us before leaving29-Aug-2015 20:05, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 280
29-Aug-2015 20:05, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 250
The happening intersection at Broadway & ColumbusThe happening intersection at Broadway & Columbus
The happening intersection at Broadway & Columbus29-Aug-2015 20:53, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 450
 
Topless!Topless!
Topless!29-Aug-2015 20:53, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 4.5, 9.0mm, 0.1 sec, ISO 400
Segways on paradeSegways on parade
Segways on parade29-Aug-2015 21:01, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.5 sec, ISO 800
29-Aug-2015 21:02, NIKON COOLPIX S9900, 3.7, 4.5mm, 0.1 sec, ISO 400
 

And that was that – we had great food and conversation with Wendy & Randy (it was good to meet him!) over the course of 2 hours.  We said our goodbyes and they want to their car while we walked back to the hotel.  It was a nice night for it and made it back with no incident.  The next day, we grabbed some good bagels at a nearby Bagel shop for breakfast, then headed home for a nice 6 hour drive back.  We took some pictures of that too, but they’re really not all that exciting – just more middle-of-California goodness!

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