One of the things I've always wanted to do we did on Saturday. We took the ferry from Oakland's Jack London Square to San Francisco, and it was eventful to say the least. The departure was almost an hour late, unfortunately due to a woman who slipped while boarding and required an ambulance. But the weather was picture perfect, and there was Lagunitas Pale Ale (and Coke for the kids) being served downstairs…not a bad way to pass the time as we waited for the ambulance to arrive. Finally we took off, and the boat arrived at the Ferry Building where the farmer's market was winding down. We continued on, running quickly into the boats sailing in the America's Cup; so many helicopters overhead and boats in the water! Eventually we made it into Pier 41, our stop where we debarked, had lunch, saw the sea lions, watched a magician and rode the carousel before joining the crush of humanity back home. It made me miss the tranquility of Seattle ferries, but nothing could beat the drama of passing under the Bay Bridge and being so close to Alcatraz. It was the best of SF: crazy, crowded, visually-wonderful and memorable. Next up, and last on our list for summer vacation trips: Sea Ranch for five days.
