Golden Gate Park

Maybe it's because Dave has been working so hard and was feeling a bit burned out. Maybe it's because we heard all these great stories about Kyle and his exciting life in downtown Chicago. Maybe it's because of all the trips we've been making to the bay area as an airport shuttle without stopping for any other adventures. Or maybe it's because our little country-raised daughter asked, "What's a city?" For whatever reason, this morning we up and decided to seize the Saturday and head to San Francisco. Our goal was to explore new areas. We spent the day at the Golden Gate Park and took a new little hiking path along the coast that ended with a spectacular view of the bridge.



Golden Gate Park is always something to see-- packed with a variety of active people and an eclectic mix of attractions. Today we saw a flower conservatory, bison roaming around a field, street performers on crazy jumping stilts and people flying stunt kites on the beach. Our favorite find was this terrific play area for the girls (we've never been to the park with kids before). Ella loved all parts of this unique playground, but especially digging in the sand made wet from little creeks and waterfalls.


Delia climbed sea life statues and waves in a different ocean themed sand area.


Both girls were brave enough to tackle the giant spider web. Delia cracked us up with her determination to just dangle.

Racing down this looong cement slide on a cardboard box lid was thrilling for Ella. The girls regularly read a story about San Francisco that has a picture of children flying down this exact slide.

I'm happy whenever I get to see the ocean!

One last stop at the Dutch tulip gardens and Queen Wilhimena windmill-- San Fran is nothing if not ethnically diverse!