Hi guys!
A few days ago I got back from a visit to the US. My friends got married in San Francisco and my brother and his wife just had a new baby! Perfect reasons to get out there. Plus, they finally lifted the travel ban. So with the necessary precautions I got on a plane and welcomed the Californian sun after months of Dutch clouds.
First stop: 📍San Diego!
We made it to the coast my first day out here and I got to enjoy everything there is to love about this place. We went on a nice walk with all the little nieces and nephews at Cabrillo National Monument. There is a cute lighthouse and easy trails overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
What a joy to be back here! After almost 2 years I was so happy the kids still remembered me well and I didn't feel like a stranger to them. I guess all the videocalls helped a lot.
We had amazing Mexican food (my brother is brilliant at finding the most authentic places where you're surrounded by local Mexicans). But he also had another request. Since his wife wouldn't come, he asked if I'd go skydiving with him! Uhm, excuse me?! I probably said "Sure!" a little too soon, not realizing I'd be overthinking this decision pretty much every night before going to bed. But, I wasn't going to back out now, so here we are:
Next stop: 📍San Francisco!
So now it's time to get ready for this wedding. San Francisco is my favorite US city. I love the architecture, how green it is, the hills and the overlooks. I love how it has all the city feels but also is right by the coast and only a few hours from parks such as Yosemite, or a bridge away from Muir Woods. Sunset dining in Sausalito, strolling through China Town, or simply packing a lunch to the Presidio. I was so excited to attend a wedding here!
I mean come on! Who doesn't get at least 10% happier each morning waking up to this view?
Here we go! On our way to drop this groom at one of the most beautiful days of his life. It's a good feeling seeing your friends progress in life and being happy.
We cross the Bay Bridge and make it to the Oakland LDS temple where they are sealed as husband and wife.
This beautiful building has perfectly kept rooftop gardens overlooking the bay. You can see the downtown SF skyline and all the boats and ships passing by.
How lovely it was to catch up with old friends and celebrating together.
Next stop: 📍Phoenix!
While in the country, I might as well make the most of it and drop by some more friends. So I make my way to Phoenix. We drive to the beautiful Sedona and spend the night there.
Watching the sun set over these red rocks is just something else! We grab a nice dinner and the next morning drive on to the Grand Canyon.
In a few hours we go from T-shirt weather to snow. You might think this is enough entertainment for a day, but not for us. After enjoying the views and hiking a bit, we head back to Phoenix to catch a Monday Night Football game!
Nothing like an American stadium filled with hope, excitement and mediocre fast food!
Next stop: 📍Salt Lake City!
When I land, it's raining and grey. Like the Netherlands when I left. But I'm not going to let that take away from all the fun I've had on this trip so far. Little did I realize, only a couple hours later it started snowing! And it didn't stop until the next morning!
Driving by the Utah Capitol building we decide to stop and walk around in the fresh snow for a moment.
It's now time to head back home. Already looking forward to my next visit. To hold me over until then, I bring home one of the best things the US has to offer:
Cinnamon Toast Crunch!
