San Francisco

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It was the final day of our trip.  We had ridden up in a little cable car on a crazy steep hill and had gone down the famed Lombard Street with its eight hairpin turns.  It has been claimed to be “the most crooked street in the world” and I believe it.  But still no sign of my beloved St. Francis.  And then I did a little research.  It turns out the Mission San Francisco de Asis was founded in 1776 and is both the oldest intact Mission in California and also the oldest building in San Francisco!  It was incredible going into a building that had survived earthquakes and was as old as the founding of our country.  Then I discovered the National Shrine of Saint Francis of Assisi.  I had wanted to visit Assisi and Gubbio while we were in Italy on our honeymoon but we just couldn’t swing it.  Imagine my surprise when I discovered exquisite Italian murals portraying the life of St. Francis and radiant stained glass throughout the length of the church.  Finally I had discovered him in these two holy places.  Since it was our last night, we decided to take a romantic dinner boat cruise around the bay at sunset.  When we came up to the dock this guy took one look at Burk and said, “Way to go player!” which we both took as a funny compliment.  I was wearing my beautiful red cape and we were happy and relaxed.  American photographer Imogen Cunningham once said, “I think San Francisco is the best place in the whole world for an easy life.”  After dessert we headed up for dancing to a great live band.  For as long as I live I will never forget passing under the Golden Gate Bridge, all lit up, with the lights of San Francisco twinkling off in the distance.  And of course the last song they sang was “I Left My Heart in San Francisco.”  I sure did.

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2 comments on “San Francisco

  1. Sounds like you guys had a wonderful trip! When we go back I’ll definitely refer back to this to be sure to check out these places. It’s funny how you think you’ve seen a city until you talk to someone else and realize there is SO much more!

    • It was a wonderful trip. I tend to do a lot of research before we go places. My husband says always leave something to go back for. And he’s so right; it gives you something to look forward to as you revisit familiar places and discover new ones. I’m so thrilled you found my blog useful for your next time back Alison. Safe travels!

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