Tuesday, July 28, 2009

A Sweet Escape


So this summer has been full of twists and turns. I haven't enjoyed them all, but we make the best of everything and eventually good things come around. I was thrilled when I found out that San Fransisco was in the mix for choices for Family Vacations. I jumped at the chance to do something new and see a new place. I had been making plans and dreaming of trolley car rides and beaches.
It wasn't exactly what I pictured in my head. We took off from SLC and headed there at night. I sat with Kinley and we chatted for most of the flight until she got sucked into a book. I casually flipped though a magazine while I waited for the decent to my dream home. As we landed, I was shocked at the cold air moving though the air port. We claimed the bags- mine were with us, since I carried on. We rode on the Air Tram though the airport to the Rental Car place. We got into our little Audi and cruised down the 101 to San Fran. Everyone was pretty much fast asleep- but I couldn't sleep- I just watched the water pass and the cars flurry around me. The Bay Bridge was a sight to behold- the construction made things difficult as well as the occasional left side of the freeway exit.
We arrived at the Hotel very late- or rather very early. It was about 1:30. We unloaded and the bellman took it up to our rooms. We all crashed. The bed was like a cloud. Soft and white. I have never felt so comfortable in my life. I was out like a light and thankful too. We awoke and got ready for a fun filled day.
The trip consisted of many fun little memories and activities.
We played at Fisherman's Wharf. It consisted of shopping, eating fish, wearing fish hats, using disgusting public restrooms, and lovely street vendors. I enjoyed every part of the day. We went up to the Ghirardelli Chocolate place- which used to be a factory. We bought our share of chocolates and snacked while we wandered the rest of the streets.
We went to Pier 39. This consisted of more shopping, mini doughnuts, looking at lots of art work, AN AMAZING SPEED BOAT TOUR THOUGH THE BAY, Hard Rock Cafe's amazing California Chicken Club, and being talked out of buying a truly adorable hoodie.
We walked the Golden Gate Bridge. I loved every second of the wind in my hair and the crash of the waves along the coast below. I enjoyed the laugh we all got from the suicide hot line numbers posted on the walls. The view was limited because of the fog.
One day was spent in pure shopping bliss. We had rode a Trolley Car across town and then you have to get off. The line to get back on was insane- so the boys hailed a taxi to pick up the car and the females trekked off on our own to get a little shopping done. I spent more than I should have- but the whole time I was in sheer bliss. I love little lace, light materials, whimsical looks. There is nothing better for the adventure that is waiting for me this year than this new wardrobe. I excitedly rejoined the family after this blissful trip.
The Cheesecake Factory was nearly a nightly routine. We would pick it up to go and take it to the hotel as we traded stories and memories from the day. It was so fun to be able to just sit and laugh with the people who love me regardless. The Pasta Marinara was no bueno at the Cheesecake Factory- that is my fair warning to all. I hated it. I ate half and wanted to throw the rest on the waitress' perfectly white attire.
We traveled out to a redwood forest. The trees were majestic and beautiful and the smell of them was heavenly. Mitch needed a hiking buddy and so we did the long uphill climb. I made it with only a minor blister. New shoes were not my greatest plan. The canyon to get there was nearly unbearable- the twists and turns were making me so sick.
There is a little gem of a town called Sausalito- the sun is shining and the breeze isn't nearly as cold. I loved the little place. The harbor is just across the street from the main little district. We sat at the sidewalk and watched the boats while we enjoyed fish and chips... and Subway Sandwiches.
The family attended Wicked. It is one of our favorites. We have now been on both sides of the country from NY to CA. I loved the music. It amazes me how each time you see it there is a new lesson to be learned. I sat and listed to the words and heard a different cry of pain in some of their words- new happiness in others. It is strange how time changes everything. We were part of the VIP lounge. We were invited in for a drink and snacks before and during intermission. Lines for the women's bathroom were more insane than usual. But I enjoyed our little sanctuary in the purple velvet room.
I am not sure what more to tell you about the trip. It was a wonderful break. It was everything I wanted and more. I have thus decided that part of my definition of me will come as I travel. I want to see the wonderful places this world has to offer- I am destined for great things, so I deserve to see things equally great. I can't wait for life to start. Just a few more months.

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