I Had a Birthday, part 1

For my birthday present I received a ticket to go see my parents. So, the next day I headed to the City by the Bay. When I arrived we went to a yummy burrito place. Then, headed to the Oakland Temple to attend a session with the Mandarin branch. It was unique to have to wear headphones to understand the language. I laughed as I looked around the room, most people were wearing headphones. Afterwards, we went to the Visitor Center. One of my favorite sister missionaries, Sister Douglas, that I might on my last trip was working there so it was so fun to see her.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Oakland Temple

The view from the temple overlooking the city as the sun sets.

Sunday, we attended the Filipino ward. I didn't hear one person speaking Tagalog. Then we went to the Mandarin branch. The speakers that day spoke English and it was being translated into Mandarin. All the missionaries serving in that branch right now are from Hong Kong or Mainland China (I think) and all speak English really well.I lucked out. The missionaries are all so cute and energetic. It was great hearing them gush about how much they love my parents.

That afternoon, we headed to Stanford campus to walk around for fun. On the way there I was able to see the San Andres fault, well the big ravine it is located in.

The Stanford Tower

The History building

Typical Stanford architecture- tan stone, red tile roofs, and arches

Dad, Mom, and me (thanks to a nice man walking on campus who offered to take our picture)

Mom and me

That night it was so WINDY. On Monday, due to the weather, we switched our plans and just went to the mall. Then we just chose a Chinese restaurant that my parents thought looked good. I think in the past they never would have gone there it kind of looked like a dive. Turns out we were the only people speaking English in the restaurant. I take that as a sign that is authentic. The food was really yummy!When we thought the weather was better we tried to go to the beach access by their house, but..

this is what we looked like. Still too windy!

Instead, we headed to The Cliff House for dessert. It is at the base of Golden Gate park and overlooks the water. It has a great view, plus windows to protect us from the wind.

Mom and Dad just outside The Cliff House

Dad and me at The Cliff House. Good thing I threw in that coat and scarf last minute.

Right after this, my parents dropped me off at the airport. When I got off the plane there were 4 darling girls and one handsome husband waiting just passed security to give me tons of hugs and kisses. It was wonderful!