The San Francisco leg of our trip came to a conclusion after we exchanged gifts. Aunt Stacy’s gifts were the real crowd pleaser with matching hats and footie sweatpants. There is really just no way to compete. 

I love those little California cousins and will miss them terribly. I wish we had more time with them which is always the case. Looking forward to visits again next summer; hopefully sooner if we can sneak it in. 

We were treated to quite a flight from San Francisco to Chicago. We hopped on the plane with Poppy and Melissa. It is a long flight and we were incredibly spoiled.  Don’t worry we flew Frontier home so we are keeping our heads grounded. 

We arrived in the Chicago burbs in time for dinner with my mom, Becky and her family. We didn’t do much but travel, but that can sure take it out of you…even in the lap of luxury. 

We got a later start today which was much appreciated after our early morning yesterday. We had a leisurely lunch at Colibri Mexican Bistro. I shared some spicy chicken taquitos with Annabelle and Maeva. I got quite the kick out of watching them eat the hot sauce. Annabelle continues to astonish me in her love of spicy foods. I love her sense of adventure and willingness to try new things….as long as there is a big glass of water available for afterwards to cool her burning mouth!

Our group split up after lunch — those walking to the Nutcracker and those walking with Maeva who is hobbling along these days in a boot. (The story I hear is that she slipped and fell on a pencil!). I joined the walkers which included B, my dad, Melissa, Gwyneth and Eliana. 

We walked through a not so great part of time, which is being very kind. Stacy had warned us, but we wanted to walk. I was still shocked by how uncomfortable it was walking with 2 little girls through that area. Gwyneth was a bit nervous and securely attached to my side. We made it through just fine, but it wasn’t enjoyable and I wouldn’t do it again. 

We arrived at City Hall with a few minutes to spare before the Nutcracker. It is called the Palace for the People and lives up to its name. It is stunning inside and we were thrilled to see several weddings and wedding photos occurring. 

From a far the tree looks like it’s covered in lights, but when you get close you find it is covered with origami cranes. Fabulous!

After exploring City Hall, we headed across the street for the San Francisco Ballet’s performance of the Nutcracker. We just saw the attended the Nutcracker in Denver last week and it was so interesting to see the differences in the performances. The consensus from the Colorado crew was the dancing may been a better at the San Fran ballet, but we enjoyed the familiarity and silliness of the Denver ballet. 

We had a long walk and it was warm in the theater. This lead to a few heavy eyelids in our party. Everyone loved the show, but its easy to get a little comfy and cozy during the ballet. 

Good food and great family made for the perfect evening.

We have a bit of whirlwind trip coming up which made it certainly difficult to pack. We are excited for the time with family though so here we go…

First stop San Francisco! The girls were thrilled when we arrived, after our very early morning flight. They took to the hills and had a ball running down them. Now, running up them is quite a different story…

We walked from our hotel down to the pier to meet with up with my sister’s family. We got a sneak peak at China Town. 

So much happening. So many distractions. 

We enjoyed beautiful views on that little walk.

We arrived at the Wharf and spent a few hours at the Exploratorium. 

I snuck this beauty from the balcony of the cafe. Not a bad view at all. 

The drinking fountain was a big hit for all the kids. 

Cousins reunited. They sure were happy to see each other!

We took the street car back to the hotel. The girls were pretty pumped about that too. 

Back at the hotel the girl posed and then acted supremely goofy for a few photos before we headed off to dinner at Bix. The food and company were fabulous. We had a delightful first day in the city by the bay.