This year, Toby and Anton are in different schools, so they have different spring breaks, for the first time ever. The silver lining was that we could take one-on-one trips, which felt really special. Last week, Toby and I went to San Francisco to visit our family, and I must say, it was an adventure I’ll never forget.
Our San Francisco Adventure Begins
As soon as we arrived, we beelined to my sister Lucy’s house. How cute is she? My niece and I have a long tradition of playing Block Blast while chatting about everything/nothing in particular; so after taking an evening walk and eating pasta for dinner, we did just that. It’s amazing how a simple game can bring so much joy, especially when shared with loved ones.
The Next Day: Exploring Sutro Baths
The next day, Toby and I went to Sutro Baths, the former public indoor swimming pool complex. The fresh ocean air felt so good on our faces, and the stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge were breathtaking. We also got this cool comic book to bring home to Anton, which he’s been eyeing for a while. It was a thoughtful gesture that made the trip even more special.
A Self-Driving Adventure
Separately, since we’ve talked about packing a lot in the past, I was happy with my packing strategy! Mostly black, white, cream, gray, and blue, so everything was mix and match. Pictured here: jacket, shirt, jeans, and similar loafers. We borrowed my sister’s car to get around, but one afternoon, just for fun, we took a self-driving Waymo. Watching the steering wheel turn on its own is trippy at first but soon feels VERY safe — Waymos are basically like A+ students, who come to a full roll-back stop at every stop sign.
A Fun-Filled Day with Friends
We were lucky enough to see some friends, like Julia and her toddler daughter… who gazed at teenager Toby like he was the world’s biggest celebrity. We also went to a Warriors game with some pals. A real nail-biter… but they pulled off a 109-106 victory in the final MINUTE. It was an exhilarating experience that left us all cheering and high-fiving.
Exploring the City
The next day, Toby and I walked along the water, explored the Ferry Building, and drove down twisty Lombard Street (hard to capture in photos!). The scenic views and lively atmosphere made for a perfect day out. Last but not least, we had dinner with the cousins… and did a quick height check. As I took this photo, Dr. Kalanithi asked, “Are we the same?” to which I replied, “Not even a little bit.”
A Joyous Farewell
Finally, we said goodbye and flew home, stepping over this dude’s foot every time we had to get up lol. It was such a joyous trip and we felt so, so lucky to be able to see everyone. California, we love you!
A Word on Family and Friendship
Where does your family live? Close by or far away? How do you stay in touch? My sister and I also do five-minute phone calls. It’s amazing how technology has made it easier to stay connected with loved ones, no matter the distance.
Conclusion
Our trip to San Francisco was a testament to the power of family and friendship. It was a journey filled with laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories. As we reflect on our experience, we realize that it’s the little moments that make life truly special. Whether it’s a game of Block Blast or a self-driving Waymo ride, it’s the shared experiences that bring us closer together.
Verdict
California, we love you! And we’ll be back soon.
