San Francisco

We had a wonderful relaxing 3 days with my cousin Colin & wife Lisa, in Novato, San Francisco. 

Thursday 18 May
On the drive to the airport from Novato ... an INCREDIBLE view from above the north side of the Golden Gate Bridge, particularly notable for the pod of Humpback whales who were hanging out on the incoming tide just under the bridge!!! ​

Colin also took us to the Civic Centre for Marin County which was designed in the late 60s by Frank Lloyd Wright. Fascinating history, incredibly avant-guard for the 1950s. It was Lloyd Wright's last and largest design, and he died (age 92!) before any construction was begun. Wikipedia link about it: here. 

Wednesday 17 May
Brilliant sunshine for a lovely walk up the hill behind Novato. How gorgeous is this!!?

These photos from a trip to Sonoma, a delightful meander around the Sonoma Plaza including wine tasting, a Mexican lunch, the historic buildings from the Spanish Mission built in 1823, and the main base for the Mexican governor and military, before California won independence, then joined the Union. Fascinating history.

"Stop All Way"
One of the most puzzling things about California (is this common through the US?) is that most intersections have 4-way STOP signs. So everyone stops, and whoever gets there first goes first. Not sure if you get there the same time as someone else. And pedestrians right of way. I didn't get it.

And, as is my custom, some 'detail squares' for your optical enjoyment ...