Forest and Warriors

Sunday, fourth Advent, brunch, with prosecco, meet friends, then a short stroll through the more than manageable 'Christmas market' of the Castro district, into a bar, meet other acquaintances. I felt very reminded of Berlin, especially because of the gray weather.

Monday then sightseeing again. We got off to a late start. The goal was Muir National Park, giant trees that you can touch, about an hour's drive away. Nature began right after the Golden Gate Bridge, green landscape, gentle hills, eucalyptus groves.

The gloomy weather, the millennium-old trees from the time of the dinosaurs, and the 'forest solitude' created a special atmosphere.

Abrupt change of scene, Brian, our host, had invited us to basketball: Golden State Warriors vs. Sacramento Kings. Chase Center with its 18,000 seats was almost sold out. We experienced a tremendous spectacle with show performances, effects, and also sports. The drink prices were also dizzying, $50 for three large beers. Just as scandalous: alcohol consumption, otherwise prohibited in public places, in transparent plastic cups in the presence of minors who otherwise have no access to bars!!!!

The Warriors won 113:98

PS: The earthquake all the way up north California was not felt in San Francisco.