The Left Coast

Oakland Airport a mess of reconstruction. About 20 people in line at the car rental. Looked like an hour's wait. Finally, finally, two paunchy middle-aged men received their keys and departed. They had quibbled and argued and turned down umpteen cars. After those yahoos left, the line moved quickly. We got a Chrysler mini-van type thing. Plenty of room for 6 people and luggage, or 4 people and LOTS of luggage, which we were at various times.

The Seal Rock Inn on Point Lobo has many advantages: very reasonable spacious suites with indoor parking, a cafe that serves hearty breakfasts and lunches until 6:00. Quiet. Small pool. Nice garden, ping pong tables, fireplaces in some suites, all with fridge. Decent toiletries. Plenty of space. A tad funky.

You can walk down the hill to the Cliff House or the beach or various lookout points. Nasturtiums growing wild all over everything. Loved it. We could have seen the Golden Gate except the fog and chill air. Walgreens close by.

We had a couple meals at the Cliff House, which was remodeled and spiffed up. Jury is still out. But the cafe is in a big bright room with lots of glass overlooking the ocean. Great view. Decent food and drinks. Grapeshot was on a Vodka Gimlet kick. I recommend the pot stickers. Interesting people at the bar: four Italian guys drinking espresso and talking about the world cup, couples, cyclists, tourists, a good group.

I love the colorful houses in San Francisco, perched cheek by jowl along the hilly streets. Outdoor living is big. There is a jogging/bike path along the beach south of us, and beaucoup citizens were taking advantage. Surfers in the cold water. Unusual kites on high. I foolishly looked at the internet weather forecasts and had to wear my hooded sweatshirt and windbreaker all week. Reno was cold, too, with rain squalls. But that was another day.

Onward,

Grapeshot