Leaving for San Francisco, wardrobe (and all organs) in place.

The evening’s dramatic rain storm, and subsequent drop in the temperature, completely changed my jacket selection(s) for my upcoming visit to San Francisco. The slightly damp, but not too humid, air here in Albany was pretty much what I can anticipate experiencing in SF.

I’m going to need a raincoat of sorts for certain – and items to layer.

As I finalize my packing list (yes, I still make a written list and cross items off as they land in my luggage), I’m trying to anticipate both the weather and our activities, both of which remain unpredictable. In an attempt to be prepared for the unknown, I’m going with a palette suitable for late summer in colors such as burnt sienna, faded khaki, various shades of cream along with a few pops of berry in an array of textures including including corduroy, linen, cashmere and cotton.

Beyond enjoying retirement leisure time with dear friends, there isn’t much planned. We’ve got tickets for a professional women’s soccer match (go, Clare!), an overnight visit to some wineries in Sonoma and, perhaps, some live music. I know there will be some dancing and good food enjoyed, although whether that will be at home or out has not yet been determined.

It doesn’t really matter because whenever I’m with these particular friends, we always have a good time.

I’ve got a yearning to walk across the Golden Gate Bridge for the first time ever to enjoy in the view and I’ll probably take a yoga class or two, something I always try to do when I travel. I also imagine there will be lots of walking, as well as quality time spent sipping rosé and planning our next joint adventure (Thanksgiving in Italy!) in my friends’ gorgeous gardens.

Sounds rough, right?

It’s been five years since I last visited this part of California. During that fantastic roadtrip with my youngest son, we hit up some thrift stores, ate some great food, toured Alcatraz and checked out Twin Peaks and Chinatown during our time in San Francisco, our final destination.

Perhaps you have some favorite things to do when you’re in the Bay Area? Please share!