Beautiful weather. Clear skies. A day to remember the fallen … Ed and I enjoyed a peaceful Memorial Day weekend in the Bay Area. It wasn’t the exotic travel that we had planned (move over, Mozambique!) but it was still fun. We took advantage of scenic activities in our own backyard.
Socially-Distanced Picnic
On Saturday of Memorial Day weekend, our first stop was Lafayette, where we had a socially-distanced picnic with my 97-year old mom. The menu was Chinese food from a local spot. First we set up the tables in her backyard with the required spacing. Of course, Sydney supervised.
Ed picked up the takeout cuisine and Jan plated it safely for all to enjoy.
The Mongolian Beef, Shrimp with Veggies, and Chicken in Black Bean Sauce were all delicious. Thanks to the chef at the nearby Kung Fu restaurant! We appreciate that they’re considered an essential business.
Memorial Day Hiking in the Foothills
Lafayette has developed an extensive trail network. After lunch, Ed and I met our friends, Todd and Barbara, at a local trailhead right across the street from my mom’s house.
We donned our masks and set forth on the trail.
The views were beautiful.
Sydney enjoyed the shade.
Hiking in a mask wasn’t too difficult, as we are all pretty used to wearing them. We passed quite a few other hikers — most of whom donned masks as well.
We feel fortunate that this land has been preserved for all to enjoy. Thank you, East Bay Regional Park District!
Biking to the Ocean
On Sunday of Memorial Day weekend, we rode through Golden Gate Park to the ocean.
No one told the roses in the Rose Garden about the coronavirus, as they seemed healthy and vigorous. The blossoms were bright and beckoning.
Quite a few families were enjoying the great weather and sunshine in Golden Gate Park. Most were gathered in their family groups, keeping 6-feet away from others.
The Great Ocean Walkway
The Great Highway along the ocean has been closed to cars, so it’s a mecca for walkers, joggers, and bikers. We saw all types of transportation — electric bikes, bikes, skateboards, scooters, you name it! The mood was festive. People were happy to be out, as everyone has had “cabin fever”.
Lots of groups congregated along the beach. A few surfers caught the waves in the distance.
The message near the Conservatory of Flowers said it all. It’s important to enjoy this Memorial Day and share hope that we’ll come out of this virus period better equipped to handle crises in the future.
I appreciated this story considerably. My husband and I bought an older home last October in Santa Rosa which we were busy remodeling when Covid hit. Our backyard completely torn out, the master bath taken down to the studs…once shelter in place descended we were not sure what could then be accomplished. Fortunately we were able to continue to have irrigation, dirt removal and new fencing done all during our sequestering…as long as the workman stayed outside our home, conversing with us through open windows and six feet apart while we talked through our masks.
I have gone basically nowhere since March 19 so buried I’ve been working on the inside of the home…plus following sheltering rules. It was so encouraging uplifting to see your photos of your mom, who looks so spry and on top of life for her 90’s, and the scenic shots of SF, the beach highway and rose garden. I felt like I spent the day out and about with you and Ed, thank you for sharing. Soon we will head to our mountain place near Lake Almanor for a much desired change of scenery and a break from the remodel. At long last the contractors will then be able to get inside and finish our master bath. Stay healthy, safe and hopeful everyone. Robin Malby.
Thanks Robin! I’m glad you enjoyed the post. We’ve been sheltering in place in SF since March 4th. We don’t go far … but there are many wonderful spots in the “hood”. I’ll let my mom know your thoughts. Best, Jan
Connection in all ways possible right now is so important. I enjoy you and your husbands adventures very much, Doug and I love to travel and learn about other cultures and lives. Robin
Awesome tour! Nostalgic and beautiful. Thanks!!!
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Thanks Deb! Staying close to home made sense for us this weekend. xoxo
What a lovely post! We need more encouragement to keep living well while staying safe.
We had a small Memorial Day BBQ, with just 3 other family folks + one toddler + 2 dogs, and kept the food simple, hamburgers, chips and corn on the cob. It was our first time socializing and it felt like a “party”!
Thanks Melonie! Yes, it’s important to celebrate our families and friendships. It’s been so hard to be isolated. Hope you’re well.
Loved that you saw your mom, Todd and Barbara. We also saw my mom (same age), and then my sister and her husband for a walk on the beach. In both cases, keeping our distance with masks. Our first time since March 4th. Florida is much more lax than CA. No one else on the beach or on our other walks have had on masks 😟.
Scott joins me in sending our love to you and Ed!
❤️ Inge
Thanks Inge! It was a fun weekend. Staying home (with no outside contact other than me) has been really tough for my mom! I just got her “shopping list” for the next two weeks and will go to Trader Joe’s (during the 8 – 9 am hours for the “Elderly” (!) ) to stock up. Also, it was great to see T and B. Very fun hike. Hope all is well. xoxo
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