Down by the Bay

Last week the Gent and I spent a few days in San Francisco. Sophie came with us and the big kids stayed with Honey and Poppa. We enjoyed the time away and a chance to explore a new city. We had great coffee in a little cafe we wandered into in North Beach, browsed the farmer's market at the Ferry Building, took in beautiful views of the bay and the Pacific from the Presidio, checked out the local baseball scene, and rode a cable car. With the exception of one public transportation official, everyone we met was friendly and welcoming. We now take offense at the notion that Southerners are slow, however. :) San Francisco is a city not in a hurry.

Sophie was the best little traveler. She pretty much lived in the Moby wrap on our trip and she was happy as could be. She slept well, ate well, and looked cute, which is about all you can ask for in a 10 week old infant. And now that we're home she's right back on her usual schedule. I would have four or five more babies if I knew they would all be like her!

We stayed at the Palace Hotel, which is very pretty and historic and was perfectly adequate. I never saw a doorman, the front desk clerks were fine, the concierge dismissive, the bell desk did not answer their phone. The rooms were loud. The bed was quite comfortable and housekeeping responsive. But certainly not the service I expect from a four star hotel. Lesson learned: either stay at a Hilton family hotel and earn the points, or splurge and stay at the Ritz.

the only picture of all three of us


dinner by the ballpark
 

a little free baseball through the outfield fence


yay Moby wrap! and the sweetest baby in the world.
 

the America's Cup qualifier race was going on. amazing to watch these boats sail!


the Palace of Fine Arts