For spring break, we went to San Francisco, Yosemite National Park, then back to San Francisco again. The trip was bookended to allow for the logistics- long driving and flying times. Here are all those hours and miles condensed down to a quick 2 minute video.
In summary, it was great. I know I say that a lot but it’s true! Here were some of my highlights…
The change from gray, chilly East Coast scenery to (unseasonable) 60-degree temps and bright blue skies. Both places were simply gorgeous and so refreshing.
Getting back to Yosemite. It’s one of my most favorite places on the planet. It’s just spectacular- from the perspective-setting feeling of walking through the valley between massive, ancient rock walls, the bubbling of the Merced River, gushing falls, and grand views, just all of it.
Walks and hikes with the kids with minimal complaining. I don’t want to jinx us, but we seemed to have turned a corner on enjoying outdoor experiences.
Catching up with my dear college friend Erin for pizza and wine on our last night.
Going through the tank tunnels at the aquarium. It was such a simple, cool design to walk under the fish.
Eating nearly all the groceries we bought- with no extra emergency stops for stuff we forgot. We’re getting good at planning meals to fix and eat where we’re staying. I only brought home a ½ jar of peanut butter and a box of mac and cheese. (Yes, this is a highlight because of how much I hate throwing away food.)
The kids really got into the history on Alcatraz. The listened to every word of the audio tour— taking special interest in the escape attempts then sharing their ideas about how they would have done it. Baya takes after both my grandmothers and literally reads every pamphlet and every sign. It’s both great and incredibly tedious.
Then there are all the little things I try to remember but know I’ll forget— like listening to the kids’ inside jokes with each other and made-up games. They really get along so well- except when they don’t. But through this pandemic we’re all getting better at figuring out the right carrots and sticks that make long days together in close quarters a little more manageable.
