Our Alcatraz Experience and Adventures

 

Family on the Island with a gorgeous view of San Francisco in the background.

Photo Cred: First-Born  This was a spontaneous shot I just love of me & the Youngest.

The First Born couldn't resist taking a picture with this photogenic Alcatraz bird.

Photo Cred: The Huz  Doesn't this bird look like he's literally posing for the camera? Too cute!

San Francisco has been a repeat destination for our family over the years and in previous times, The Huz has always said that he wanted to check out Alcatraz Island but for some reason or another, we didn't do it. On this particular trip, I intentionally went online to make sure I reserved the date. It's an easy process, just pick the date & time. The boat loads on Pier 33. 

We arrived on the loading pier a few hours early just to make sure we knew where it was and they told us we could go ahead and board the boat so we were able to get on the island before our scheduled time. Without planning it, we actually gave ourselves more time to explore the island. For those that typically get motion sickness, the short boat trip is definitely choppy so I suggest taking some kind of motion sickness deterrent (Dramamine works well for me, personally). 

Once on the island, there is an informative audio-guided tour that features fascinating perspectives of life in a maximum security penitentiary from the prisoners themselves as well as the guards who oversaw them. After that tour, guests are pretty much free to walk around and explore. It is a National Park so keep in mind that you shouldn't touch plants and wildlife and definitely don't take anything that you didn't buy from the gift shop. 

There is a lot of walking involved and many steep, upward and downward hills. Wear comfortable shoes. Also, it can get windy, so be prepared for that and definitely bring at least one layer.

We had such a good time. The Island is absolutely beautiful with some fantastic views of the Bay, the water, greenery and foliage all over. It has sights, sounds and picture perfect opportunities, but also profound history.  If you have the chance and opportunity definitely put this Island on your "To Visit" list. 

We love San Francisco.💓

"'Larry The Musical' now Playing in San Francisco"

Thankful to watch this musical as a family.

 

This is an incredible show, currently playing at the Brava Theater in San Francisco. 

As a Filipina American, I was excited to be among the first to see this musical play but I was also nervous because I wanted it to be good. Well, I am happy to say that I was extremely impressed by the entire production. The performances were fantastic--the acting, the singing, and even the choreography. The sets were simple, but it all worked. So beautifully written--with heart--and a wonderful tribute to the late great Larry Itliong. 

If you get the chance & opportunity, go see this musical!

This is a brilliant cast!

I wish this production continued success!

Something, then Rest

We went on a much anticipated week-long cruise a couple of months ago (deng, time moves fast) and somehow, during the first three days, I had some stomach issues and I wasn't feeling at my absolute best. I was able to participate and enjoy myself but in-between activities, I would go back to my stateroom and rest--lay down, even nap. I was disappointed in myself because I just wanted to be energetic and go-go-go.  But my body was letting me know it wanted something else. 

By about the third day of the cruise, I felt much better and closer to the energy I wanted to have. This cruise, as a whole, was super memorable for my family and we had such an amazing time. And I'm happy I allowed myself time to focus on resting the first three days in order to enjoy the remainder of the week.

Taken at the port of Ensenada, Mexico. As a family, we just naturally have a lot of silly moments, but rarely is it captured on camera since pictures are often posed & such...so I personally love this candid shot. So thankful for family. 💓

The idea of "something, then rest...something, then rest..." resonates with me in a literal sense, highlighted further by my recent experience on the cruise, but also how important the concept is in a figurative sense too--your mind, your heart, your senses....everything that makes a person a whole, strong individual. 

There are people who are go-go-go people and they thrive on constantly moving & filling up their calendars. And that's ok. Do what brings you joy or fulfills you. That being said, it's okay to be a live-in-the-moment, take-it-slow-and-rest person too. You can do something, then rest, physically and mentally. Give yourself grace. 

This is a non-judgemental zone. 🚫

Again, sending love & light to anyone that needs it. 😘