Ben and Elaine's Spring Break

Ben and Elaine and Lorna and Ethan decided to spend their Spring Break down in sunny California. Margo also came down and spent most of the week as well. It was great. These are pictures of their room at the Todd House. They're not intended to make you jealous, just to cause you to check your schedule and book a trip soon! Notice the Temple outside the window.

Early on in the week Ben and Elaine got to visit the beach at Point Reyes National Seashore and experience some whale watching. They also spent some time with us in Alameda, seeing an apartment we hope to rent, as well as eating dinner at Ole's Waffle Shop. The main activities involving Margo and I kicked off Wednesday with going to see the play WICKED at the Orpheum Theater in San Francisco. Once again, it was spectacular.

Next up, on Thursday, was a full day of activities in San Francisco. First, a stop by Lombard Street, the curviest section of road in the United States.

We then took one of the old-fashioned cable cars from the wharf over to china town. I wasn't terribly excited about the cable car, but it actually was pretty cool. The best part is you feel like a movie star because everyone is taking pictures of you (or the cable car) as you go down the street.

China Town was definitely like walking into China or at least another world. We wanted to try some food so we chose a restaurant. The waiters and waitresses were really pushy (definitely authentic) and the food was really good.

We stopped at Ghirardelli Square for free chocolate samples and bought some ice cream. Definitely a high point for Lorna.We then walked down along the wharf, stopping to see interesting street vendors, on our way to Pier 39.

Lorna loved the carousel on the pier. There were also some good views from the end of the pier. You can see Alcatraz Island in the background.

We had to stop for sourdough bread. The Boudin bakery is amazing, selling all types of bread. Ben and I agreed it's the closest bread to bakeries in Eastern Europe that we've had. In addition to the taste, they also had all sorts of shapes.

As evening approached, we headed over to Golden Gate National Park, which is located along the wharf just below the bridge. Beautiful views to be had all around.

Margo and I enjoyed some parks around the Temple on Friday. The area is so beautiful and so many great places are nearby.

It was a great week with Ben, Elaine, Lorna and Ethan.