There are almost no words to describe the beauty and grace of today. It’s San Francisco. It’s sunny and 59 degrees. And we have nothing to do but enjoy.

Returning to my cousin’s bakery we started the day again with delicious treats we almost never would have at home. Quiche; a chicken empenada; cinnamon roll and a hot cross bun. Some of us also had coffee . . . but I’m not a coffee drinker.

Leaving the bakery we headed for the Presidio for a full day of exploration and fun. And, that’s just what we did. We explored and we had fun. I also spent much of the time walking to find the perfect spot for photographs.  Beginning at the bridge entrance we admired the beauty and genius of such an engineering feat. Then we drove down to Fort Point where we were amazed by the solid brick fort built before the Civil War, yet it was in remarkably good condition. I wanted to get to the top where I saw others walking, because of course, I could photograph from there! Three stories of stairs and the view was fantastic!

We also saw the informative films about the construction and history of the fort and the Golden Gate Bridge.  Filled with information, we realized we needed to be filled with food. So, we went to the main part of the Presidio and enjoyed a light lunch at one of the local restaurants.  Being on an old Army Post always brings back a flood of childhood memories for me and I feel right at home. I never really had a home town, but an Army Post fits the bill perfectly. They are almost always the same – or very similar – and they are entirely familiar as well as comforting for me. And, I loved the Presidio.

We got our day’s exercise by walking the lovely “boardwalk” along San Francisco Bay, stopping for pictures along the way. We found a small museum dedicated to California gold rush history and found it fascinating.

By late afternoon my cousin, Joe, texted to say dinner would be ready by about 6:30, so we made one last round past the Golden Gate Bridge as the sun was low on the horizon and drove back to the Mission District and dinner.

Through talk and laughter, reminiscences and good food, we shared a wonderful evening in the company of extended family. Who could ask for anything more?

Well, spatzle, maybe. My cousin made chicken and spatzle for dinner! Along with asparagus and roasted butternut squash. And, it was absolutely delicious. I guess that’s what you get when your heritage is German.  Good family and good food. The perfect end to a perfect day.