So what happens when you have an internship in California for the summer, people want to visit you! This past week my mom and sister came out to visit to see A) California, and B) me, or vice versa - depends who you ask. They arrived Wednesday night and we started with a true California tradition, dinner at In-and-Out. Thursday they explored San Jose's campus while I worked, met my co-workers and bosses and then we headed out to drive down the coast (still my favorite party of California). We drove from San Jose down to Bixby Bridge / Big Sur, and even though there was lots of fog the views were still gorgeous. Props to my mom, who is terrified of heights, but drove the curvy roads anyways, with minimal panic attacks so Shan and I could stop for pictures and sight seeing. Then when we returned home Shan and I went to Orientation Prom so she could meet all of my fabulous students!
Friday we got up bright and early to head to Santa Cruz for our surfing lesson! I am considering giving up Higher Education to become a Professional Surfer, but I haven't officially decided yet. Actually, surfing was a lot harder then I imagined, and took a lot of upper body strength (which I don't have). But it was tons of fun, and both Shan and I were able to actually stand up and surf a few waves. Best part, I got to wear a wet suit and really looking legit is half the battle. After our surfing experience we walked he Fisherman's Wharf to see the Sea Lions, and the boardwalk for a mid afternoon snack. To complete our fun packed day we stopped at Henry Cowell Redwood State Park to see the Redwoods, they were just as impressive the second time I saw them!
Saturday we went to San Francisco to continue our how much of California can you fit into four days. We started with Golden Gate Bridge, and then drove around Sausalito, which is where I want to live someday - the houses, views, area, everything is just beautiful. Again, my mother managed to show us the whole area with very minimal panic attacks! Then we checked into our hotel, and took the bus down to Pier 39. We first explored Pier 39, all of the shops, the sea lions and the farmer's market! We set out on a trolley tour, seeing everything from the Full House house, to Pacifica Heights, Little Italy, China Town and everything in between. The only downside was the fact that the trolley was open, and it was freezing. Upon our return we went to Little Italy where we had a delicious meal. Exhausted, we decided to take a cab back to our hotel. Shan got in the cab, I got in the cab, my mom got halfway in the cab and it started to pull off! Now if you know my mother, and know our luck, this is merely the story of her life. The cab drove a good five feet with her hanging out of it before he realized, said I'm sorry and continued on like nothing happened.
Sunday we went to Union Square, and the three story Forever 21. Then we headed down to Pier 33 to go on our Alcatraz Tour. The tour was great, informative, interesting and fun! We ended our San Francisco adventure with some clam chowder from Fisherman's Wharf and a Cable Car Ride. Shan and I stood on the cable car, like they did in Full House, and it was by far one of the best ways to see San Francisco!
Monday morning my sister and mom headed home, as me and the rest of orientation staff started session 5! I realize I am really lucky to have family who want to, and can visit me where ever I may be in the country! Oh, and orientation session 5 went wonderfully, but I wouldn't expect anything less from my wonderful co-workers and students!
