Welcome to Sonoma.

 Today I traded city streets for the quiet charm of Sonoma, California. While Napa is famous for its vineyards, Sonoma has a slower pace that made me feel right at home.

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Our first stop was the historic Sonoma Plaza, where we found a giant bear standing proudly in the middle of town. It wasn't a real bear, of course, but a reminder of the short-lived California Republic of 1846. For just 25 days, California was an independent nation before becoming part of the United States. 

The bear on the California state flag traces its roots back to this fascinating chapter of history, known as the Bear Flag Revolt. It was fun imagining what the plaza must have looked like during those exciting and uncertain days.

Just a short walk away stood one of Sonoma's most important landmarks—the historic Sonoma Mission. Officially known as Mission San Francisco Solano, it was the last and northernmost of California's 21 Spanish missions.

A little tipsy from some wine tasting but being beary respectful in the mission. 

Walking through the adobe buildings and peaceful courtyard, I couldn't help but think about the many people whose lives crossed paths here over the centuries. I was especially interested in the servants' quarters, where the mission's workers lived and carried out many of the daily tasks that kept the community running. It offered a glimpse into the everyday lives of the people whose stories are often overshadowed by the mission itself. The simple architecture and quiet gardens created a peaceful atmosphere, making it easy to slow down and reflect on the mission's long and sometimes complicated history.

Nearby was the mission's hospice, which served as a simple hotel where travelers could find a place to stay and a warm meal, while also helping provide food for residents of the mission community.

Before leaving, I spent a little more time wandering around Sonoma's historic plaza. The town has a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere, with locally owned shops, cozy cafés, and an impressive art scene.  As you might have guessed this painting really called spoke to me. 

 

Welcome to the rock.

 No trip to San Francisco would be complete without a visit to Alcatraz Island. Before catching the ferry, we drove across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. I'd seen countless pictures of it over the years, but nothing compares to seeing those towering International Orange spans rising above the bay in person. Even with the fog rolling in and out, the bridge was every bit as impressive as I'd imagined.

Next stop is the rock, that's right Alcatraz Island.  I'm reviewing the model at the ferry terminal before departure. A prepared fox is a happy fox. 

After boarding the ferry, I watched the city skyline slowly drift farther away as the island grew larger in front of us. It wasn't hard to imagine what it must have felt like for the prisoners who made this same journey decades ago. The views were spectacular, but for them, they represented everything they were leaving behind.

Stepping onto the island, I was surprised by how beautiful it was. G It was a strange contrast—a place known for its harsh history surrounded by incredible views of San Francisco Bay.

Gardens filled with colorful flowers softened the stark concrete buildings, and seabirds circled overhead.

The seabirds had their chicks recently and they were all out and about on the island.  These little chicks will one day grow probably grow up to be western gulls often seen on Alcatraz. 

Time to explore inside. 

Inside the prison, the atmosphere changed completely. Walking through the cell blocks, I saw just how small the cells were. Standing inside one made it easy to picture what daily life must have been like. The walls echoed with stories of infamous inmates, daring escape attempts, and the routines that governed life on "The Rock."

As the ferry carried us back toward the city, I kept looking over my shoulder at the island. Alcatraz is much more than an old prison. It's a place filled with history, mystery, and unforgettable views—one that left me with plenty to think about long after we returned to shore.

 

Welcome to Napa.

 Usually my adventures start off with a walk or a hike.  

 However, being in Napa California my adventure began in a way that felt just about perfect: on two wheels.

The bike paths wound past vineyards that seemed to stretch forever. Neat rows of grapevines marched across the hillsides, soaking up the warm California sunshine.

After our bike ride, we headed over to the botanical garden to see what we could discover. 

I expected beautiful flowers, towering trees, and maybe a few butterflies. I wasn't expecting to stumble upon a whole collection of colorful mythical creatures!