The Wandering Continues

San Francisco is generous with her beauty. I have been traipsing through neighborhoods all while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Yes, the hills make for great workouts but they also pitch me to great viewpoints. Pete and I have established our walk routine and he insists on at least one daily visit to the Francisco dog park to meet with his new pals and one visit to the valets at the Fairmont for his nightly treat. It’s a routine I can live with.

On Sunday I walked 3.4 miles to and from a 24 Hour Fitness in the financial district. I was the only woman working out, which was a bit unsettling. I asked the front desk why no women were at the gym. The only answer they could give me, “It’s Sunday”. Hmmm I think women can work out on Sunday.

My short term rental is on the path of the cable cars so I hear the bells all day and see the delight as the numerous tourists hold onto the railing and swing halfway off the wooden steps. It’s a quintessential San Francisco vision. The noisy underground cables in the street scare Pete so we walk quickly when crossing.

I see swimmers in the water morning, midday and in the evening. Tai Chi happening at Washington Square in North Beach. Fruit and vegetables piled high in China Town. Fort Mason littered with bikers, runners and walkers. I think I have figured out the parking situation although the street cleaning schedule does throw an additional wrinkle in finding and, more importantly, keeping a spot.

I even managed to pick up Carli from the airport today…yes, the San Francisco Airport! It was easier than expected Each day gets easier. I am using my phone map less and less. I am not as bothered by the sometimes pungent smells on the street. And most importantly, Pete has a bop of happiness each time we go for a walk. He is happy here and so am I.

First Morning in San Francisco

Last night during the evening dog walk we passed the Fairmont. The valet (Steven) immediately called us in and wanted to meet Pete and give him a dog treat. So, during our 6 a.m. dog walk this morning Pete wanted to go right to the Fairmont. His sense of direction is uncanny, especially when it results in a treat.

We walked the neighborhood and the SF Maritime National Historic Park. There were people in the aquatic cove swimming. They had on wetsuits and I could hear the laughing and chatting in the early morning, dark hours. I have already noticed that even though San Francisco is a BIG city, it lives small. People smile, say hello and introduce themselves. Eddie and his dog Rocky introduced themselves as we walked to the dog park this morning. And Eddie gave Pete a chicken treat. At this rate, Pete will NEVER leave this city…the treats are just too plentiful.

After visiting the dog park where Pete energetically played with another Doodle, we walked up to the area above the park, which was an even better park! The views were stunning overlooking the water and Alcatraz. Goats were on the hill doing the organic farming and a community garden and a playground rounded out the park.

I purchased my parking permit for the city and FasTrak for the bridge tolls. This afternoon I will find my gym. There are two options, both 1.4 miles away so I will walk both of them and see which one I like better. I already have settled in and it feels pretty good. I look forward to exploring the next two months. And I am sure Pete will be gaining some weight!