post number 4...

our trip to california included a fun over-nighter in san francisco. we love that place. there is so much to see and do. because it is a big city, in some ways it reminds me of my mission days in new york--still, they are very different. i just like the hustle and bustle of big cities i guess.... and let's not forget the FOOD! we arrived on a thursday at about 11am, and decided to stop into boudin bakery for a clam chowder bread bowl and sour dough grilled cheese. this place is amazing--so yummy!

at boudin they have a large street-facing window where you can see the bakers at work. they make all kinds of little animals out of bread. and here is jordan posed with a big animal. mmmm...what a delicious looking alligator....after lunch we went for a stroll along the pier. here are the world-famous sea lion floating docks. for whatever reason these swarms of sea lions gather here to lay in the sun. it is fun to catch an occasional "king of the dock" fight between them. you can only stand this place for so long, however. the stench of such a gathering is, well, unfortunate. i think avery's face in this picture says it all.jordan and tilly, enjoying the sea lions.

since jordan had never experienced alcatraz, we thought this would be a worthwhile addition to the trip. if you have never been, we highly reccomend you go. sooo interesting..... at any rate, here is the ferry we took out to the bay.

jordan and tilly on the boat... and a teeny tiny golden gate bridge in the background.aproaching "the rock."
just one of the cell blocks inside...
jordan in solitary confinement. the tour is a personal audio tour which is neat because you can go at your own pace. plus, it's narrated by former guards and inmates... and, it includes really cool background noises that make you feel like you are walking the halls of an occupied prison. and last but not least, here is the view of s.f. from alcatraz.

later that night we met up with family in concord to watch my nephew's high school volleyball game, and then went out to eat at red robin. it was such a fun day!