San Francisco...sans kids

 

John, my dear hubby, planned a surprise weekend getaway AND babysitting. What a guy! Shortly after Ann arrived to assume childcare duties, we left for the airport. We boarded the plane at 2:00 and arrived in S.F. just in time to check into our hotel "The Orchard Garden", change clothes, have a drink, then head off for Wicked. We loved this production that was filled with suspense, drama, humor, and romance. I even shed a tear here and there. The actors voices were chilling. The production set was amazing. What a wonderful show. The next day, we did not seize the day as planned, but had a leisurely breakfast at Cafe' de la Presse (where we ended up eating 2 more times...it was conveniently located right across the street from our hotel and delicious). After a yummy French breakfast we hopped the Muni light rail over to Golden Gate Park to tour the California Academy of Sciences. There we toured the Steinhart Aquarium, Kimball Natural History Museum, 4 story rain forest, and living roof. We ate a delicious "organic" lunch at the Park Chow, then walked back toward Union Square for some shopping. Later that night we met The Damsens (a childhood friend of John's) for dinner at Cortez. On our last day in S.F. we walked down to the Ferry Building and Pier 39. I only wish we could have spent more time there.

Some things I love about S.F. (not necesssarily in this order):
1. Their garbage cans say "trash/landfill"...really makes you think twice about what you buy and throw away. The trash is usually situated next to "compostibles" and "recyclables."
2. I LOVED walking everywhere. I loved that when something was too far to walk, public transportation was cheap and fast and relatively easy (well...somewhat confusing).
3. The diversity! I miss that in Boise.
4. The food is exquisite. Locally sourced, organic foods are obviously important to the peoples of S.F. I don't think I'd ever tire of eating out in S.F.
5. The arts and culture is second to none. So much to do. We found ourselves repeatedly wishing that we could show the kids this or that.

It was so nice to spend time with my hubby. I was sad to go, but look forward to visiting in the future. Thanks John, Ann and Doug for making this happen. It's a memory I won't soon forget.