Sunday, June 24, 2007

We're here!!!!! But before I bring you to San Fran, you MUST hear about our fabulous fun today! 

All the kids were back at St. Andrew's by 9:30 for warm ups and instructions.  Of course they were filled with what fun and such nice new friends they had for their overnight and time in Sacramento.  Some families even joined up so that our choir kids could do stuff together.  I heard about going to dinner; a few went swimming; some had about every video system imaginable they could play and play and play (sleep?); some got together with their teenage host's friends, went to a park, went to the friend's house, hung with teens from Sacramento; others just had time to relax.  Our hosts all offered to do a mid-trip laundry which was so very much appreciated!  I'll bet those hosts did enjoy a day of rest after church!

St. Andrew's has a fantastic worship set-up, beginning with a hymn sing as members of the congregation filter in for the 10:30 service.  Marvelous voices and such enthusiasm!  I'm a life-long Methodist and I've never seen such a fun way to bring in the spirit!  Pastor Elizabeth has a great gift to bring out the sincerest warmth of these fine, fine people.  It was a genuine belonging and a very meaningful brief worship service, complete with an adorable baby girl being baptized. 

Next on the program were our kids.  The usual opener of Psalm 100 got them off to a lively start.  The rest of their repertoire was performed beautifully, smoothly and fantastically!  The choristers absolutely made us proud…..and a few tears in the pews.  Wade in the Water was a hit, of course.  A great one with this audience as well.

An unbelievable potluck followed the service.  The fellowship hall was filled and it was a great chance to socialize with our hosts.  We were definitely filled with love and nourishment as we hit the highway.  Thank you, St. Andrews!!!

We had about 1-1/2 hours to our park and ride destination and Jim got us there with no problem.  Just as we were disembarking our coach bus, the Route 66 bus arrived and had enough room for all of us to climb aboard for an exciting, white knuckle (for some) ride up the hillside to Muir Woods.  This national park is akin to a nature sanctuary, and even on a busy Sunday, you can find peace in the huge redwoods forest.  Look at the pics for some great comparisons of size compared to your own munchkin!  HUGE!  The ride back to Marin City was another fun one – wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

Jim hustled us off to Denny's up the highway where they were able to seat us all.  Lots of omlets and pancakes could be found on plates and tasted great.

We again hit the highway – this time for one that is suspended above San Francisco Bay – yep, you guessed it (or else you cheated and looked at the itinerary) – the Golden Gate Bridge!!!!!  What a blast walking, running, skipping across.  Margaret and a few kids walked the entire 18,000 feet round trip across to the Marin County line and back – about 3-1/2 miles which was quite the power walk!  Lots of pics on the website of this fantastic, fun time together!  And everyone was very brave including Mr. T. and me.  Jim even joined us on the hike.  Can't be in San Francisco and NOT do the bridge!  It was gorgeous, too, because we were there while the sun was starting to set.  At first, the downtown skyline was bright white, all the buildings looking like sea shells, but as the sun got lower, shadows appeared, and at the very end some of the windows beamed what looked like spot lights with reflecting sun rays.  Unbelievably beautiful. 

Onto the youth hostel, close and direct route to the bridge on the grounds of Fort Mason.  Could not believe how great this place is.  Another group of teenagers from southern California is staying here.  I'm sure by tomorrow night, the ice will really be broken and there will be lots of getting to know each other.  Lights off by 11:30 (sort of) and there's a hush in the building.  I think I may dream of those amazing sights tonight………and I'm pooped! 

Til next time,

SUE