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Friday, December 16, 2011
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
My Trip to California
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
I woke early 3:30 to be exact for my last walk with Buddy, my dog. I then got all of my things and drove over by Debi’s and found that both Debi and Mike were taking me to the airport. That was great since we had such a wonderful time talking on the way. At the airport I got the Sky Hop to check me in and saw my luggage was going to Cincinnati and then on to San Francisco. Security is always an issue and this was no exception but I was through in no time and arrived at my gate to sit for 5 minutes and say hi to the man next to me. Interesting enough he was the one that I sat next to on the plane.
We had a tiny plane, so tiny, that our luggage had to go underneath and we got another ticket to pick it up upon landing. The flight was great with Mike talking the whole way. I think I might have liked to nap, but knew, all was meant to be. When arriving in Cincinnati we were a bit early which was good, since most had connecting flights. I didn’t realize until I started to txt my e-mails, that my extended battery didn’t have juice. I needed to make sure my phone still had charge so I could find Julie’s boyfriend Mason at the other end. I wouldn’t be able to enjoy my book so knew there were other plans for me. I found there was a spare seat between me and a lady, who didn’t like to talk, so I was able to nap and just meditate. It was great and I was thinking of wonderful time I’d have with Julie.
It sure was a good thing that I got some rest. Mason found me just before my luggage did and we walked a ways to his car. We then made our way into the city to meet Julie for lunch. It is amazing how quickly one can cross the country especially when traveling backwards in time. It was so great to see Julie especially on the 25 floor of 4 Embarcadero and where I could look out across San Francisco and see not only the bay bridge with Treasure Island and then across to the Golden Gate. I took many pictures since I’ve never seen SF in such a grand manor. Julie took us downstairs to a great place and said the lamb burger was wonderful. I, of course, had to try. It was great but very filling and rich. I then decided I would eat a little of everything Julie would like to show me, experiencing it just as she does. How grand is it to be able to have my daughter want to show me her life and for me to be able to share it with her.
Julie went back to work and Mason & I went over to the pier, more pictures, including the huge pumpkin and soon it was time that Julie could leave. Mason’s cheap parking cost $21 instead of the $7.50 he thought so that was interesting. We went back to Julie’s with me taking a nap. Julie discovered she had left a prescription that she just bought at the pharmacy so she and Mason went back to retrieve it and I got some rest. Julie got back and we both slept some more. It was great to hug and kiss my daughter’s forehead, though being 36, still feels as though she was just born. I never realized how much I miss her and how much she loves me until this trip and I could really see her life and what great a person she is. She got to know me more to and I did tell her that if I ever go into assisted living I’d come and be by her since I’d want her to visit me.
Around 6 we got up hungry, so Julie took us to her favorite pizza place. It was great with a thin cornmeal crust. I found that SF is a healthy eating place and Julie doesn’t cook so I knew I’d be eating out a lot. I was really glad I brought my Shakeology drink so I’d at least get good nutriments. I vowed to walk as much as I could and enjoy every minute with Julie. After eating I now wanted to walk so we took a walk up to a dog park on top of a hill close to Julie and enjoyed looking at the city at night. There was no fog so we could see this great city. I took more pictures.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Julie was off, I woke to an earthquake though I thought it was the cat jumping around and that’s how SF feels about them. They feel them, acknowledge them and just know they had one. I did get up earlier than Julie and did my usual writing to Christian and for the thought of the day. It was 6 for me but 9 back East. It’s difficult to think of the time being different. I now understand why Julie has difficulty getting a hold of me since by the time she has a spare moment, my day is done. We went out and got breakfast. A great little place that was very small but very good. Julie taught me that I needed to dress in layers. She had shed down to her tank top but wasn’t as comfortable doing that so didn’t go that far. Outside it was brisk but we knew it would get warmer and colder during the day. Everyone in SF dresses that way. Everyone carries a bag to store things they might need on their journey.
Julie and I went back to the car. Mind you it’s very difficult to find parking spaces which you’ll see later in the story. We took the car to the Golden Gate Bridge. We both wanted to walk though didn’t want to pay for parking so found a nice secluded place not far and enjoyed our wonderful walk. We walked half way across taking great pictures except that I kept taking pictures wanting cars on the bridge and when I shot the pictures the cars disappeared. I found that very interesting. On the way back we stopped at the gift shop and I got a GGB golf ball. It’s very cute and a nice remembrance. Jason started my collection of golf balls on our cruise getting me some from Belize.
Julie wanted to do something else like visiting Alcatraz. I know she was showing me a great time and what I always did for her, keeping busy all of the time. I could see that she was tired and I was too. After looking online and seeing that the last boat left a minute before, I felt I had done enough for the day and could see that Julie had enough too. We rested instead and I found that I could golf the next Monday so called and set it up. The afternoon was perfect since there was a tournament in the morning.
After our nap Julie and I went for another wonderful walk in Golden Gate Park. We walked through the Pan Handle and found the wonderful flowers that you see in the pictures. Also more tree pictures since I so love and felt the wonderful grand trees. I don’t know many of their names but know and grew up with the Eucalyptus. It amazes me how I connected so much with the wonderful earth of SF. Growing up I never felt comfortable in SF since it was the bad city as my parents had taught me. I went there but only to specific places to eat, Ghirardelli Square, Pier 39 etc. It was so wonderful to connect with the wonderful places that Julie loves. I can now enjoy this wonderful city but Julie told me to stay out of the tenderloin district and I will always abide by her instructions.
After walking through Height & Ashbury visiting Julie’s shopping places and meeting a friend of Julie’s, who was in her show, I discovered that I would be taking Allison to the show the next night since she didn’t have a ride and the show couldn’t go on without her. I was a bit scared though wouldn’t admit it to Julie and had instructions on where to park etc. None of which I abided by though will tell you about that in tomorrow’s report.
On our way back to the house we stopped at an Ethiopian restaurant and enjoyed a complete protein bread which was wonderful with the meal. I remembered what I didn’t like about the west coast which was service was very slow. It got to the point where Julie had to get the tab and almost asked where our food was. I so enjoy the faster pace of the east coast though I now also enjoy the wonderful city of SF.
Arriving home still early and since Julie doesn’t have TV service we watched a great movie of which Julie has all of her favorites and is quite happy not to be exposed to all of the negativity of the TV. It’s very cool.
Friday, October 28, 2011
I got up early doing my usual writing and then crawled back into bed beside my beautiful daughter. I do miss having a king size bed to myself but I sure do love being with Julie and experiencing her life. Waking we dressed and went clear to South SF to experience bagzien’s which is a pastry that is served for breakfast. They are very good and I’m sure not on any diet. I loved experiencing all of the things that Julie enjoys. After breakfast we went shopping and first found Ross’s which is my favorite place since there are such great deals. Julie found 2 pair of boots and 2 purses. I didn’t see anything I wanted which was ok too. Mason called saying he was getting off at 2 so Julie and I headed back to the house. We picked up burritos for dinner with Julie and Mason going out to the show early and I got to take a nap. After getting up I was also able to walk for an hour which was fun too.
I drove up on Height street close to Allison and found a great parking space. I couldn’t remember exactly where she was so called her and she said to look for the big legs on top of the building. Very easy to spot and didn’t see them when I was walking the night before. Sure enough there were the legs that stuck outside the shop she worked at. I was able to pick her up and get to the show by 7:30. We walked right in and went up to the dressing room. Julie had my stuff up there and I dressed to get wet. This was a gory show with the key element being that fake or red colored water was sprayed through the show. Julie wanted me to experience this from the front row. I got my swim cap on with goggles a poncho with clothes that didn’t matter if red covered them. I also had a complete outfit to change back into. The squirting guys were thrilled that I was in the audience but didn’t realize I was Julie’s mom and told her how this great lady was in the front row and they were going to make a target of me. Julie informed them that was her Mother and not to hit me at all. They promised not to make me a target but I was in the front row so still got wet.
I’m so glad that I was able to experience Julie, being the lead in the show, from the front row though I must say it didn’t help when my goggles fogged up. It was so grand to sit there and hear how good she was from those around me. I didn’t say anything but felt like a proud peacock spreading my wings knowing my daughter was well liked and good at what she loves. I’m now so glad that when she first asked me if she should pursue acting I said, why not?
After the show I changed and hung around but I was tired and soon asked Julie how to get home. She gave me directions but on the road I got turned around not knowing the city. I had to ask for directions from Julie and finally found myself finding a parking spot. There weren’t any and I kept going around and around further and further out. I finally found a parking spot about 16 blocks away and decided I wasn’t going to drive again. It would go with Julie or take mass transit, this parking was for the birds. I txt Julie that I finally was home and she was quite curious that it took so long to park and after asking her, she said she just double parked for a while, and then looked again. All in all it was a grand day and I experienced Julie’s show just as she wanted me to experience it.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
I woke for my usual writing and then retrieved the car finding a much closer place to park. There are bars close by so after 2 is a great time to find parking. When I got back Julie was already getting up and we went for a nice breakfast. Mason, Julie’s boyfriend had to leave for his Dicken’s Faire practice, Julie skipping again since she couldn’t speak needing to rest her voice for her last show. Tonight I’m taking pictures and not experiencing the wet part of it. We went off in search of cardboard boxes so there would be enough to cover the floor of the theater. We had a great day and rested in the afternoon making sure we’d be fresh for the night. Julie uses a lot of energy when there’s a Friday night and Saturday night show. I left with Mason & Julie and we found plenty of parking since we were so early. I went off on my own while they worked on getting the theater ready and found a wonderful Sushi place but needed to wait ½ hour before it opened for dinner. I took some shots of me and the surrounding area that has changed for the better and now one of the in places to live. Interesting how things change in a few years time.
I went back to the theater and found Julie. She found me a place way up in the control booth so that I could be away from any flying blood. I did have good clothes on and really didn’t want to get them red. It again was a great show and now you can see the pictures with Julie. It’s Called ShEvil Dead which is a spoof of Evil Dead movies, all 3. I watched one and it was enough for me to get the gist and enjoy it. I’m not into gory movies unless my daughter stars in them. Strange, how I changed when Julie is the star.
I came back home with Julie’s friends and it was great to not drive or look for parking. I learned that lesson very well. I was just going to bed when Julie got home with again not going out. I think Julie wanted to be with me? But also her voice though worked well during the show was shot again and she needed to rest.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
I was up and took a walk but found when I returned that Julie was up and ready to go out for breakfast. I also discovered that I had left my sweetener at the one in South SF. I called and they had it so knew I’d go get it on Monday while Julie was working. Julie and I headed out to Napa over the Golden Gate so I could pass through Sonoma and then on to Napa to visit my Aunt Fredi & Uncle Ethan. My cousin Larry, his wife Bev, Cousin Jon Paul, his wife Gale, with their families were all there. It was a grand reunion. We had difficulty finding our way since they put an outlet store on the path that I used to take. Maps on my iPhone saved the day. We had a grand time though I didn’t take any pictures. Aunt Fredi is 84 and Uncle Ethan complained that he only put 5900 miles on his car in the last 6 months. He’ll be 88 in December. He looks and acts 70, no more. Auntie though is rather frail and forgets things. Amazing how they’ve stayed together all of these years. We had fun reminiscing of all the old times.
We finally left about 6 p.m. since Larry, being in Real Estate, still had work to do and Julie needed to stop in Vallejo to see a friend and try on outfits for the Dickens fair which started the last week of November. My iPhone maps found us the way. Technology is really great. We decided not to go by Julie’s old place since it was later and we were both tired with Julie had work in the morning.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Julie was up before me this morning and I slept in. The cat found its way up by me and almost pushed me out of bed though I finally pushed him over. I was off, taking Julie’s car to get my bag of sweetener and have a great breakfast though I didn’t get the pastry but a wonderful omelet. I came back and found parking, easily since it wasn’t evening. Carey, Julie’s roommate, showed me how to catch the bus to Lincoln Park. I was off to play golf.
The bus drivers are so cool and helped me by telling me where to go after I got off the bus. You’ll see the bus with the swivel in the middle. They have very long busses that bend so they can make it around the corners. Lincoln Park was wonderful.
I got there a little early and there was a tournament playing so I needed to wait. It wasn’t long and I had my clubs and was off playing golf. I was surprised that the Tee’s weren’t marked very well and sometimes I had to hunt though I eventually found them. There wasn’t anyone ahead of me and a man and son behind that didn’t want to join me so I just enjoyed a pretty good game of golf. It was warm though the fog had rolled in and I could only see the top of the Golden Gate Bridge. It was quite interesting crossing over the road and playing on the cliff for 4 holes. Quite hilly and glad I was in good shape since I was walking.
I got to the 16th hole and had to wait for those ahead in the tournament and I could see it would take quite a bit of time so asked how to get back to the club house. I had enough and was ready to go home. I went down the 13th hole again played with a guy and putted in a 15 footer which really felt good and came on back home to Julie’s. I must say I do love playing golf.
I got home just before Julie and enjoyed going to practice with her. It was quite interesting to see her put her Base on her back and just walk right to the car. She had it all worked out how it fit into it into her Mustang and we were off to her practice. We were to eat there since Maya always got food and did again except that it never came. Well at least until I was so starved I ate a croissant while waiting. I had played golf and was really, really hungry. The food came and I was so glad. I was very tired when we got home and was glad to crash.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
I woke tired and with a headache, after writing I fell back asleep not waking until 11. I felt so much better and ready for another wonderful day. I’m so grateful that I took 2 weeks instead of 1. I was off to the botanical gardens in the Golden Gate Park. I talked to Carey, asking how to get a bus from there to downtown and Julie since I needed to be down by her when she got off at 4. Carey is the queen of mass transit.
I walked around and found the botanical gardens and really enjoyed them though there weren’t as many flowers as I thought there would be but then it’s almost winter, so I shouldn’t have expected them. Do look at the flower pictures. I walked around a bit, but about 2:30 I decided that I needed to head toward the side of the park and find my way down to Julie. I walked through Stow Lake, more pictures especially of birds and turtles that didn’t move and really enjoyed me taking pictures of them. It amazes me how creatures get so used to their environment that they learn to enjoy us humans.
I found my way to the edge of the park and low and behold there was a bus stop. I again asked someone there if there was food around and they said no, so I decided I’d get food down by Julie while I waited for her. The bus driver again told me how to go and before I knew it I was in front of Julie’s building. I found a Taco Bell, with Julie reprimanding me, since there were much better places to eat Mexican, but I was satisfied and able to wait until we went out to Julie’s friend Carey’s from her childhood. We took BART and had a nice ride out. We did have to stand for a bit but soon we were able to sit.
Carrie picked us up and took her to her home in Dublin. We had a wonderful meal and enjoyed spending time with Carrie and her family. See Pictures. It took time to get home but it was a wonderful day.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
This was a very interesting day. Julie went to work and I was off to find the Victorian house tour. I arrived down close to it though I didn’t see Sacks Fifth Avenue. I asked a few people but they were all tourists and didn’t know either with some not even speaking very good English. I finally went into a store and low and behold it was right ahead. Lol. It’s always interesting to me to see how unobservant I can be. I wasn’t sure where to wait and found a wonderful tourist that was just lunching and talked to him a bit. Ray was from Australia. He’s coming back to NYC so maybe he’ll contact me. It’s so fun just to enjoy new people.
The tour finally came with Jay being a great tour guide. We hopped on a bus and went over to the Queen Anne Hotel which used to be an all girls school. More pictures here and during the tour. It ended up on Union street and I chose Jay’s favorite place to grab a sandwich. I found the way home from the waiter telling how to catch the one bus up the hill and get the next one that would take me back to Julie. I arrived back at the house just as Julie was coming in. How cool was that?
Maya picked us up and we went to the Mission district to where our gig was. They were playing in a burlesque show which was very interesting. I also found it interesting that Julie knew it would be ok with me. It is, though not what I choose today. I of course, wanted to hear and experience all of Julie’s gigs. We had burritos for dinner and then back to the show. Mason, Julie’s boyfriend showed up just in time for the show.
After the show Julie, Mason and I went for a walk to see the Day of the Dead which was quite interesting with elegant people all ghostly looking. Only a couple pictures. Everyone remembered their loved ones with notes and candles. It was very cool to see.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Julie’s off again, how great is that. I so love being with her and though Mason had issues the night before all is well today. I’m glad. We went down Height street and had breakfast. We were on our way to Golden Gate Park and the Academy of Sciences Museum and it started to rain. Mason was so great and went and got umbrellas for us and then of course, it quit raining.
We arrived at the perfect time to the Museum. We were ushered into the planetarium where they had a grand video which covered the dome ceiling which was better than 3D. It was very cool. Everywhere we went we were in perfect timing, I so enjoyed the feeding of the fish. Many pictures of fish. We spent most of the day there. We hurried when we got back to get ready to travel to Mason’s place and Tahoe for the weekend. First we were going to Berkley to see Rick, Julie’s old boyfriend and now great friend’s band.
Before stopping there we were hungry and found a great Thai place. We arrived about at the art show where the band was playing about ½ before it was over so I’d say perfect timing once again. It was interesting since they were background music which I think they’re better performing when people stop and listen. It was all fun and son we were back in Vallejo at Masons. Julie and Mason again had me take the bed which was so very sweet and they slept on the mattress. Rick, Julie’s ex and still good friend came down and we had fun talking. I hadn’t seen him since he now has a baby.
I was quite tired and really ready for a wonderful sleep.
Friday, November 4, 2011
I awoke quite abruptly this morning since Mason lives underneath the rest of the apartments. It was 8 a.m. but felt like earlier. Rick came down with Clara Mae, his daughter and we had a lot of fun talking and playing. Julie and Rick’s dog Miles Davis enjoyed destroying the cute toy that Julie had bought for him. Packing everything up wasn’t too hard since we just moved everything back to the car for our trip up to Tahoe. We, Julie, Mason and I went to a great place in Vallejo downtown to eat. I was shocked to see how deserted downtown was since the naval ship yard had closed. It was quite unnerving to see things from my past so deteriorated.
It was a great trip. I got to see Fairfield, lived there, Vacaville, parents lived there, and along the stretch after Davis where so many accidents happen because of the fog. Sacramento looked the same though I didn’t get to see the side that’s changed. Soon we were up highway 50 and at Apple Hill. It was a great place and they had great cider. Picture of Julie and Mason drinking some. Great view of lake and overlooking the hills below.
I love highway 50 since it’s so windy and fun. It snowed and Julie took pictures of the snow but it didn’t interest me since it was just trees with snow on them like we see every day in the winter. Snow is new to Julie and she does get excited which was fun to see. It was early afternoon when we arrived at Mason’s mom’s house which will be our station for the next few days. We got the house warming, being only 23 outside and we were off to the store. I was going to cook and it would be fun. We had picked up some beans at Apple Hill and the directions said 3 hours to cook, they seemed to take 3 days. I got artichokes great big huge ones that looked wonderful and chicken breast strips for our meat.
I put the artichokes on and the beans on and then 1 hour later put the chicken in. The artichokes took longer since we were at such a high altitude and they were so huge, so the chicken and artichokes got finished but the beans weren’t anywhere near getting done. We had a good meal without the beans and kept on cooking them until bedtime.
It was great to have a piano to play and though I didn’t have music I did enjoy playing with Julie. Mason took pictures and posted them in Facebook.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
It is a grand day. My cousin Curtis and his partner James came over and I cooked breakfast, good potatoes fried and crispy, a veggie scramble, and bacon. We all had a great time with Curtis and James showing us their pictures. They take wonderful ones and rented a 10,000 lens and went on a wonderful trip with professional photographers in Alaska. It was awesome and I’m so glad I reconnected with them. The beans are still cooking not yet done.
We then went over to Carson city Nevada to see Julie’s cousin Jim and Susan. They were so much fun. Jim is the split image of his father and just as great with his kids. Most are pretty grown except for their youngest son which they adopted from Susan’s sister. We left pretty late and decided to go back home since it was always nice to sleep in one’s own bed. Getting home we cooked the beans some more and now are almost done.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Getting up we found that the beans are now done and we had them for breakfast. Julie just loved them and so did I. We decided to go to see Heavenly valley, a place where I used to ski, though now it’s enclosed in a whole different way. We found that the gondola that we would take to the top was closed for maintenance and wouldn’t open until November 18th. A little late since we were leaving for SF tomorrow. We walked around the lake with a few pictures and enjoyed the crisp air. We did find that there was live music at one place latter so we went back home and took a nap.
We got up later and had Sushi then went over to the bar where the guitarist was and we had a lot of fun. I was the designated drive so felt great not caring how much the kids drank.
On the drive home, it was snowing and I was glad that I had experience in the snow. Julie got excited when the car’s tires skidded a bit but all was well and we arrived home safely. We really enjoyed the beans now since they were fully cooked.
Monday, November 7, 2011
We ate at a great little restaurant where Mason’s Mom wanted us to eat. It was really good and then we were on our way. We’re headed back home over the same trail we came out and stopping in Sacramento to see Julie’s God Mother, May. She’s been a great friend for a long time though we don’t speak any more being on opposite sides of the US. While waiting for her we found a great 2nd hand book store where we found some great books.
May was fun though talked and talked. 2 hours later I decided we needed to go and Julie was most appreciative since May would have continued for a few more hours.
We stopped over by Old Sac getting out and walking around. Many things had changed and some not at all. I was so glad to see the old and new still coming together. I do love connecting with the wonderful earth.
We arrived back in SF around 6 with Mason and Julie wanting to go to the movies. The only one I wanted to see was Puss n Boots in 3D. They decided that would be a good one to see too so off we went downtown. I so love the busses. 2 dollars for everywhere and with the transfer I’ve always got back without paying any more. Julie and Mason have their passes so not needed at all.
The movie was great going across the street before with the kids getting a beer and then we got some popcorn for the movie. The movie was great and we all really enjoyed it. I think the kids would have taken a cab back but a little walk and we were back at the bus stop just as the bus came. We were home very soon. I love mass transit especially when the buses come as often as they do in SF.
Tuesday November 8, 2011
It’s time to head home. Very sad but I’m glad too. I do love being with Julie but I also love coming back to my place. It was a grand vacation and returning home is wonderful.
Debi and Mike picked me up but I found that my car’s battery had died so tomorrow I’ll deal with it. AAA is the best way to go and I’m so glad to be home and in my own bed.
Such a grand and wonderful vacation. I hope to do it again next year.
I woke early 3:30 to be exact for my last walk with Buddy, my dog. I then got all of my things and drove over by Debi’s and found that both Debi and Mike were taking me to the airport. That was great since we had such a wonderful time talking on the way. At the airport I got the Sky Hop to check me in and saw my luggage was going to Cincinnati and then on to San Francisco. Security is always an issue and this was no exception but I was through in no time and arrived at my gate to sit for 5 minutes and say hi to the man next to me. Interesting enough he was the one that I sat next to on the plane.
We had a tiny plane, so tiny, that our luggage had to go underneath and we got another ticket to pick it up upon landing. The flight was great with Mike talking the whole way. I think I might have liked to nap, but knew, all was meant to be. When arriving in Cincinnati we were a bit early which was good, since most had connecting flights. I didn’t realize until I started to txt my e-mails, that my extended battery didn’t have juice. I needed to make sure my phone still had charge so I could find Julie’s boyfriend Mason at the other end. I wouldn’t be able to enjoy my book so knew there were other plans for me. I found there was a spare seat between me and a lady, who didn’t like to talk, so I was able to nap and just meditate. It was great and I was thinking of wonderful time I’d have with Julie.
It sure was a good thing that I got some rest. Mason found me just before my luggage did and we walked a ways to his car. We then made our way into the city to meet Julie for lunch. It is amazing how quickly one can cross the country especially when traveling backwards in time. It was so great to see Julie especially on the 25 floor of 4 Embarcadero and where I could look out across San Francisco and see not only the bay bridge with Treasure Island and then across to the Golden Gate. I took many pictures since I’ve never seen SF in such a grand manor. Julie took us downstairs to a great place and said the lamb burger was wonderful. I, of course, had to try. It was great but very filling and rich. I then decided I would eat a little of everything Julie would like to show me, experiencing it just as she does. How grand is it to be able to have my daughter want to show me her life and for me to be able to share it with her.
Julie went back to work and Mason & I went over to the pier, more pictures, including the huge pumpkin and soon it was time that Julie could leave. Mason’s cheap parking cost $21 instead of the $7.50 he thought so that was interesting. We went back to Julie’s with me taking a nap. Julie discovered she had left a prescription that she just bought at the pharmacy so she and Mason went back to retrieve it and I got some rest. Julie got back and we both slept some more. It was great to hug and kiss my daughter’s forehead, though being 36, still feels as though she was just born. I never realized how much I miss her and how much she loves me until this trip and I could really see her life and what great a person she is. She got to know me more to and I did tell her that if I ever go into assisted living I’d come and be by her since I’d want her to visit me.
Around 6 we got up hungry, so Julie took us to her favorite pizza place. It was great with a thin cornmeal crust. I found that SF is a healthy eating place and Julie doesn’t cook so I knew I’d be eating out a lot. I was really glad I brought my Shakeology drink so I’d at least get good nutriments. I vowed to walk as much as I could and enjoy every minute with Julie. After eating I now wanted to walk so we took a walk up to a dog park on top of a hill close to Julie and enjoyed looking at the city at night. There was no fog so we could see this great city. I took more pictures.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Julie was off, I woke to an earthquake though I thought it was the cat jumping around and that’s how SF feels about them. They feel them, acknowledge them and just know they had one. I did get up earlier than Julie and did my usual writing to Christian and for the thought of the day. It was 6 for me but 9 back East. It’s difficult to think of the time being different. I now understand why Julie has difficulty getting a hold of me since by the time she has a spare moment, my day is done. We went out and got breakfast. A great little place that was very small but very good. Julie taught me that I needed to dress in layers. She had shed down to her tank top but wasn’t as comfortable doing that so didn’t go that far. Outside it was brisk but we knew it would get warmer and colder during the day. Everyone in SF dresses that way. Everyone carries a bag to store things they might need on their journey.
Julie and I went back to the car. Mind you it’s very difficult to find parking spaces which you’ll see later in the story. We took the car to the Golden Gate Bridge. We both wanted to walk though didn’t want to pay for parking so found a nice secluded place not far and enjoyed our wonderful walk. We walked half way across taking great pictures except that I kept taking pictures wanting cars on the bridge and when I shot the pictures the cars disappeared. I found that very interesting. On the way back we stopped at the gift shop and I got a GGB golf ball. It’s very cute and a nice remembrance. Jason started my collection of golf balls on our cruise getting me some from Belize.
Julie wanted to do something else like visiting Alcatraz. I know she was showing me a great time and what I always did for her, keeping busy all of the time. I could see that she was tired and I was too. After looking online and seeing that the last boat left a minute before, I felt I had done enough for the day and could see that Julie had enough too. We rested instead and I found that I could golf the next Monday so called and set it up. The afternoon was perfect since there was a tournament in the morning.
After our nap Julie and I went for another wonderful walk in Golden Gate Park. We walked through the Pan Handle and found the wonderful flowers that you see in the pictures. Also more tree pictures since I so love and felt the wonderful grand trees. I don’t know many of their names but know and grew up with the Eucalyptus. It amazes me how I connected so much with the wonderful earth of SF. Growing up I never felt comfortable in SF since it was the bad city as my parents had taught me. I went there but only to specific places to eat, Ghirardelli Square, Pier 39 etc. It was so wonderful to connect with the wonderful places that Julie loves. I can now enjoy this wonderful city but Julie told me to stay out of the tenderloin district and I will always abide by her instructions.
After walking through Height & Ashbury visiting Julie’s shopping places and meeting a friend of Julie’s, who was in her show, I discovered that I would be taking Allison to the show the next night since she didn’t have a ride and the show couldn’t go on without her. I was a bit scared though wouldn’t admit it to Julie and had instructions on where to park etc. None of which I abided by though will tell you about that in tomorrow’s report.
On our way back to the house we stopped at an Ethiopian restaurant and enjoyed a complete protein bread which was wonderful with the meal. I remembered what I didn’t like about the west coast which was service was very slow. It got to the point where Julie had to get the tab and almost asked where our food was. I so enjoy the faster pace of the east coast though I now also enjoy the wonderful city of SF.
Arriving home still early and since Julie doesn’t have TV service we watched a great movie of which Julie has all of her favorites and is quite happy not to be exposed to all of the negativity of the TV. It’s very cool.
Friday, October 28, 2011
I got up early doing my usual writing and then crawled back into bed beside my beautiful daughter. I do miss having a king size bed to myself but I sure do love being with Julie and experiencing her life. Waking we dressed and went clear to South SF to experience bagzien’s which is a pastry that is served for breakfast. They are very good and I’m sure not on any diet. I loved experiencing all of the things that Julie enjoys. After breakfast we went shopping and first found Ross’s which is my favorite place since there are such great deals. Julie found 2 pair of boots and 2 purses. I didn’t see anything I wanted which was ok too. Mason called saying he was getting off at 2 so Julie and I headed back to the house. We picked up burritos for dinner with Julie and Mason going out to the show early and I got to take a nap. After getting up I was also able to walk for an hour which was fun too.
I drove up on Height street close to Allison and found a great parking space. I couldn’t remember exactly where she was so called her and she said to look for the big legs on top of the building. Very easy to spot and didn’t see them when I was walking the night before. Sure enough there were the legs that stuck outside the shop she worked at. I was able to pick her up and get to the show by 7:30. We walked right in and went up to the dressing room. Julie had my stuff up there and I dressed to get wet. This was a gory show with the key element being that fake or red colored water was sprayed through the show. Julie wanted me to experience this from the front row. I got my swim cap on with goggles a poncho with clothes that didn’t matter if red covered them. I also had a complete outfit to change back into. The squirting guys were thrilled that I was in the audience but didn’t realize I was Julie’s mom and told her how this great lady was in the front row and they were going to make a target of me. Julie informed them that was her Mother and not to hit me at all. They promised not to make me a target but I was in the front row so still got wet.
I’m so glad that I was able to experience Julie, being the lead in the show, from the front row though I must say it didn’t help when my goggles fogged up. It was so grand to sit there and hear how good she was from those around me. I didn’t say anything but felt like a proud peacock spreading my wings knowing my daughter was well liked and good at what she loves. I’m now so glad that when she first asked me if she should pursue acting I said, why not?
After the show I changed and hung around but I was tired and soon asked Julie how to get home. She gave me directions but on the road I got turned around not knowing the city. I had to ask for directions from Julie and finally found myself finding a parking spot. There weren’t any and I kept going around and around further and further out. I finally found a parking spot about 16 blocks away and decided I wasn’t going to drive again. It would go with Julie or take mass transit, this parking was for the birds. I txt Julie that I finally was home and she was quite curious that it took so long to park and after asking her, she said she just double parked for a while, and then looked again. All in all it was a grand day and I experienced Julie’s show just as she wanted me to experience it.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
I woke for my usual writing and then retrieved the car finding a much closer place to park. There are bars close by so after 2 is a great time to find parking. When I got back Julie was already getting up and we went for a nice breakfast. Mason, Julie’s boyfriend had to leave for his Dicken’s Faire practice, Julie skipping again since she couldn’t speak needing to rest her voice for her last show. Tonight I’m taking pictures and not experiencing the wet part of it. We went off in search of cardboard boxes so there would be enough to cover the floor of the theater. We had a great day and rested in the afternoon making sure we’d be fresh for the night. Julie uses a lot of energy when there’s a Friday night and Saturday night show. I left with Mason & Julie and we found plenty of parking since we were so early. I went off on my own while they worked on getting the theater ready and found a wonderful Sushi place but needed to wait ½ hour before it opened for dinner. I took some shots of me and the surrounding area that has changed for the better and now one of the in places to live. Interesting how things change in a few years time.
I went back to the theater and found Julie. She found me a place way up in the control booth so that I could be away from any flying blood. I did have good clothes on and really didn’t want to get them red. It again was a great show and now you can see the pictures with Julie. It’s Called ShEvil Dead which is a spoof of Evil Dead movies, all 3. I watched one and it was enough for me to get the gist and enjoy it. I’m not into gory movies unless my daughter stars in them. Strange, how I changed when Julie is the star.
I came back home with Julie’s friends and it was great to not drive or look for parking. I learned that lesson very well. I was just going to bed when Julie got home with again not going out. I think Julie wanted to be with me? But also her voice though worked well during the show was shot again and she needed to rest.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
I was up and took a walk but found when I returned that Julie was up and ready to go out for breakfast. I also discovered that I had left my sweetener at the one in South SF. I called and they had it so knew I’d go get it on Monday while Julie was working. Julie and I headed out to Napa over the Golden Gate so I could pass through Sonoma and then on to Napa to visit my Aunt Fredi & Uncle Ethan. My cousin Larry, his wife Bev, Cousin Jon Paul, his wife Gale, with their families were all there. It was a grand reunion. We had difficulty finding our way since they put an outlet store on the path that I used to take. Maps on my iPhone saved the day. We had a grand time though I didn’t take any pictures. Aunt Fredi is 84 and Uncle Ethan complained that he only put 5900 miles on his car in the last 6 months. He’ll be 88 in December. He looks and acts 70, no more. Auntie though is rather frail and forgets things. Amazing how they’ve stayed together all of these years. We had fun reminiscing of all the old times.
We finally left about 6 p.m. since Larry, being in Real Estate, still had work to do and Julie needed to stop in Vallejo to see a friend and try on outfits for the Dickens fair which started the last week of November. My iPhone maps found us the way. Technology is really great. We decided not to go by Julie’s old place since it was later and we were both tired with Julie had work in the morning.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Julie was up before me this morning and I slept in. The cat found its way up by me and almost pushed me out of bed though I finally pushed him over. I was off, taking Julie’s car to get my bag of sweetener and have a great breakfast though I didn’t get the pastry but a wonderful omelet. I came back and found parking, easily since it wasn’t evening. Carey, Julie’s roommate, showed me how to catch the bus to Lincoln Park. I was off to play golf.
The bus drivers are so cool and helped me by telling me where to go after I got off the bus. You’ll see the bus with the swivel in the middle. They have very long busses that bend so they can make it around the corners. Lincoln Park was wonderful.
I got there a little early and there was a tournament playing so I needed to wait. It wasn’t long and I had my clubs and was off playing golf. I was surprised that the Tee’s weren’t marked very well and sometimes I had to hunt though I eventually found them. There wasn’t anyone ahead of me and a man and son behind that didn’t want to join me so I just enjoyed a pretty good game of golf. It was warm though the fog had rolled in and I could only see the top of the Golden Gate Bridge. It was quite interesting crossing over the road and playing on the cliff for 4 holes. Quite hilly and glad I was in good shape since I was walking.
I got to the 16th hole and had to wait for those ahead in the tournament and I could see it would take quite a bit of time so asked how to get back to the club house. I had enough and was ready to go home. I went down the 13th hole again played with a guy and putted in a 15 footer which really felt good and came on back home to Julie’s. I must say I do love playing golf.
I got home just before Julie and enjoyed going to practice with her. It was quite interesting to see her put her Base on her back and just walk right to the car. She had it all worked out how it fit into it into her Mustang and we were off to her practice. We were to eat there since Maya always got food and did again except that it never came. Well at least until I was so starved I ate a croissant while waiting. I had played golf and was really, really hungry. The food came and I was so glad. I was very tired when we got home and was glad to crash.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
I woke tired and with a headache, after writing I fell back asleep not waking until 11. I felt so much better and ready for another wonderful day. I’m so grateful that I took 2 weeks instead of 1. I was off to the botanical gardens in the Golden Gate Park. I talked to Carey, asking how to get a bus from there to downtown and Julie since I needed to be down by her when she got off at 4. Carey is the queen of mass transit.
I walked around and found the botanical gardens and really enjoyed them though there weren’t as many flowers as I thought there would be but then it’s almost winter, so I shouldn’t have expected them. Do look at the flower pictures. I walked around a bit, but about 2:30 I decided that I needed to head toward the side of the park and find my way down to Julie. I walked through Stow Lake, more pictures especially of birds and turtles that didn’t move and really enjoyed me taking pictures of them. It amazes me how creatures get so used to their environment that they learn to enjoy us humans.
I found my way to the edge of the park and low and behold there was a bus stop. I again asked someone there if there was food around and they said no, so I decided I’d get food down by Julie while I waited for her. The bus driver again told me how to go and before I knew it I was in front of Julie’s building. I found a Taco Bell, with Julie reprimanding me, since there were much better places to eat Mexican, but I was satisfied and able to wait until we went out to Julie’s friend Carey’s from her childhood. We took BART and had a nice ride out. We did have to stand for a bit but soon we were able to sit.
Carrie picked us up and took her to her home in Dublin. We had a wonderful meal and enjoyed spending time with Carrie and her family. See Pictures. It took time to get home but it was a wonderful day.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
This was a very interesting day. Julie went to work and I was off to find the Victorian house tour. I arrived down close to it though I didn’t see Sacks Fifth Avenue. I asked a few people but they were all tourists and didn’t know either with some not even speaking very good English. I finally went into a store and low and behold it was right ahead. Lol. It’s always interesting to me to see how unobservant I can be. I wasn’t sure where to wait and found a wonderful tourist that was just lunching and talked to him a bit. Ray was from Australia. He’s coming back to NYC so maybe he’ll contact me. It’s so fun just to enjoy new people.
The tour finally came with Jay being a great tour guide. We hopped on a bus and went over to the Queen Anne Hotel which used to be an all girls school. More pictures here and during the tour. It ended up on Union street and I chose Jay’s favorite place to grab a sandwich. I found the way home from the waiter telling how to catch the one bus up the hill and get the next one that would take me back to Julie. I arrived back at the house just as Julie was coming in. How cool was that?
Maya picked us up and we went to the Mission district to where our gig was. They were playing in a burlesque show which was very interesting. I also found it interesting that Julie knew it would be ok with me. It is, though not what I choose today. I of course, wanted to hear and experience all of Julie’s gigs. We had burritos for dinner and then back to the show. Mason, Julie’s boyfriend showed up just in time for the show.
After the show Julie, Mason and I went for a walk to see the Day of the Dead which was quite interesting with elegant people all ghostly looking. Only a couple pictures. Everyone remembered their loved ones with notes and candles. It was very cool to see.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Julie’s off again, how great is that. I so love being with her and though Mason had issues the night before all is well today. I’m glad. We went down Height street and had breakfast. We were on our way to Golden Gate Park and the Academy of Sciences Museum and it started to rain. Mason was so great and went and got umbrellas for us and then of course, it quit raining.
We arrived at the perfect time to the Museum. We were ushered into the planetarium where they had a grand video which covered the dome ceiling which was better than 3D. It was very cool. Everywhere we went we were in perfect timing, I so enjoyed the feeding of the fish. Many pictures of fish. We spent most of the day there. We hurried when we got back to get ready to travel to Mason’s place and Tahoe for the weekend. First we were going to Berkley to see Rick, Julie’s old boyfriend and now great friend’s band.
Before stopping there we were hungry and found a great Thai place. We arrived about at the art show where the band was playing about ½ before it was over so I’d say perfect timing once again. It was interesting since they were background music which I think they’re better performing when people stop and listen. It was all fun and son we were back in Vallejo at Masons. Julie and Mason again had me take the bed which was so very sweet and they slept on the mattress. Rick, Julie’s ex and still good friend came down and we had fun talking. I hadn’t seen him since he now has a baby.
I was quite tired and really ready for a wonderful sleep.
Friday, November 4, 2011
I awoke quite abruptly this morning since Mason lives underneath the rest of the apartments. It was 8 a.m. but felt like earlier. Rick came down with Clara Mae, his daughter and we had a lot of fun talking and playing. Julie and Rick’s dog Miles Davis enjoyed destroying the cute toy that Julie had bought for him. Packing everything up wasn’t too hard since we just moved everything back to the car for our trip up to Tahoe. We, Julie, Mason and I went to a great place in Vallejo downtown to eat. I was shocked to see how deserted downtown was since the naval ship yard had closed. It was quite unnerving to see things from my past so deteriorated.
It was a great trip. I got to see Fairfield, lived there, Vacaville, parents lived there, and along the stretch after Davis where so many accidents happen because of the fog. Sacramento looked the same though I didn’t get to see the side that’s changed. Soon we were up highway 50 and at Apple Hill. It was a great place and they had great cider. Picture of Julie and Mason drinking some. Great view of lake and overlooking the hills below.
I love highway 50 since it’s so windy and fun. It snowed and Julie took pictures of the snow but it didn’t interest me since it was just trees with snow on them like we see every day in the winter. Snow is new to Julie and she does get excited which was fun to see. It was early afternoon when we arrived at Mason’s mom’s house which will be our station for the next few days. We got the house warming, being only 23 outside and we were off to the store. I was going to cook and it would be fun. We had picked up some beans at Apple Hill and the directions said 3 hours to cook, they seemed to take 3 days. I got artichokes great big huge ones that looked wonderful and chicken breast strips for our meat.
I put the artichokes on and the beans on and then 1 hour later put the chicken in. The artichokes took longer since we were at such a high altitude and they were so huge, so the chicken and artichokes got finished but the beans weren’t anywhere near getting done. We had a good meal without the beans and kept on cooking them until bedtime.
It was great to have a piano to play and though I didn’t have music I did enjoy playing with Julie. Mason took pictures and posted them in Facebook.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
It is a grand day. My cousin Curtis and his partner James came over and I cooked breakfast, good potatoes fried and crispy, a veggie scramble, and bacon. We all had a great time with Curtis and James showing us their pictures. They take wonderful ones and rented a 10,000 lens and went on a wonderful trip with professional photographers in Alaska. It was awesome and I’m so glad I reconnected with them. The beans are still cooking not yet done.
We then went over to Carson city Nevada to see Julie’s cousin Jim and Susan. They were so much fun. Jim is the split image of his father and just as great with his kids. Most are pretty grown except for their youngest son which they adopted from Susan’s sister. We left pretty late and decided to go back home since it was always nice to sleep in one’s own bed. Getting home we cooked the beans some more and now are almost done.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Getting up we found that the beans are now done and we had them for breakfast. Julie just loved them and so did I. We decided to go to see Heavenly valley, a place where I used to ski, though now it’s enclosed in a whole different way. We found that the gondola that we would take to the top was closed for maintenance and wouldn’t open until November 18th. A little late since we were leaving for SF tomorrow. We walked around the lake with a few pictures and enjoyed the crisp air. We did find that there was live music at one place latter so we went back home and took a nap.
We got up later and had Sushi then went over to the bar where the guitarist was and we had a lot of fun. I was the designated drive so felt great not caring how much the kids drank.
On the drive home, it was snowing and I was glad that I had experience in the snow. Julie got excited when the car’s tires skidded a bit but all was well and we arrived home safely. We really enjoyed the beans now since they were fully cooked.
Monday, November 7, 2011
We ate at a great little restaurant where Mason’s Mom wanted us to eat. It was really good and then we were on our way. We’re headed back home over the same trail we came out and stopping in Sacramento to see Julie’s God Mother, May. She’s been a great friend for a long time though we don’t speak any more being on opposite sides of the US. While waiting for her we found a great 2nd hand book store where we found some great books.
May was fun though talked and talked. 2 hours later I decided we needed to go and Julie was most appreciative since May would have continued for a few more hours.
We stopped over by Old Sac getting out and walking around. Many things had changed and some not at all. I was so glad to see the old and new still coming together. I do love connecting with the wonderful earth.
We arrived back in SF around 6 with Mason and Julie wanting to go to the movies. The only one I wanted to see was Puss n Boots in 3D. They decided that would be a good one to see too so off we went downtown. I so love the busses. 2 dollars for everywhere and with the transfer I’ve always got back without paying any more. Julie and Mason have their passes so not needed at all.
The movie was great going across the street before with the kids getting a beer and then we got some popcorn for the movie. The movie was great and we all really enjoyed it. I think the kids would have taken a cab back but a little walk and we were back at the bus stop just as the bus came. We were home very soon. I love mass transit especially when the buses come as often as they do in SF.
Tuesday November 8, 2011
It’s time to head home. Very sad but I’m glad too. I do love being with Julie but I also love coming back to my place. It was a grand vacation and returning home is wonderful.
Debi and Mike picked me up but I found that my car’s battery had died so tomorrow I’ll deal with it. AAA is the best way to go and I’m so glad to be home and in my own bed.
Such a grand and wonderful vacation. I hope to do it again next year.
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