Life by the Bay

Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, "California has nicer days, and more of them, than any place on Earth." Now, coming into the Bay Area about a month ago from Thailand in the midst of the hot season, I didn't find that to be exactly true, especially the first day I went into San Francisco. There's another quote that seems more adept from my point of view: Mark Twain once said, "The coldest winter I've ever spent was a summer in San Francisco." And this picture, taken at AT&T Park, during a Giants game, shows how I felt there that day.

However, it is a lovely city, despite it's temperature handicap. And in the East Bay, where I spend most of my time, the temperature is far more pleasant - in the 80's and 90's every day. Going into San Francisco feels like going from Spain to London, as I imagine it would be, only in about forty minutes. These are some pictures I've taken.

It's really weird seeing palm trees in such a cold place.

Alcatraz - "The Rock."

A view of the city from the S.S. Universe, the new Semester at Sea ship which I visited for a reception a few weeks ago.

Coit Tower, on Telegraph Hill.

A large cargo ship.

The Bay Bridge,

Some cool looking building in downtown Oakland. I like Oakland a lot - it's warmer than San Francisco, and more down to earth. It has a cool Chinatown as well. I'll probably live there eventually.

The Bart Platform in Oakland - the main way I get around.

More of San Francisco.

The Golden Gate Bridge

Some old tall ship in the harbor in San Fran.

Another view of the Bay Bridge.

Angry Jonny. My soon-to-be married brother.

Next stop - the Neighborhood of Make Believe!

Clam chowder in a sourdough bowl. A true San Francisco food.

Old Victorian Houses.

Interesting paint job

Counter-culture, anyone?

Hail Progress!