Pier 39

In the morning, I was feeling hungry and thought I would head out towards the piers to find something to snack on while I continued sight seeing.  The popular Boudin (Bo-deen) Bakery is located just near Pier 39 and they are known for making San Francisco sourdough breads.  I went in to the bakery and there were bakers baking away and loaves of bread dancing above my head in baskets just floating along on conveyor belts.  The smell was warm and toasty and I knew I had to have a taste.  I was up at the counter getting ready to place my order for a bread bowl filled with clam chowder, when I looked up and noticed a friend in distress.  Not only did they have loaves of bread, but they had BEARS of bread!  Was this friendly looking fellow on the shelf meant to be ordered and eaten?  He looked such a warm golden brown and had a permanent smile on his face… I had to rescue him.  I placed my order for my lunch, but also told the bread man I would be taking a teddy bear bread “to go.”  This bear didn’t say much, but I knew he appreciated coming along for my adventures that day.

Pier 39 is also home to some local, very vocal, inhabitants.  There is a line of docks that seems to be a favorite hangout spot for a large group of sea lions.  They argue and make a big scene all day and get tons of attention from the tourists.  From what I could tell, they don’t actually do much but make noise and entertain the people with their rolling around and groaning.  We watched them laze around for a bit and then noticed a nearby island that was home to Alcatraz.

Alcatraz is no longer an active prison, but was once home to some of the most notorious criminals.  Now it is open for tours, but there is such a demand for tickets that you have to order them months in advance.  Unfortunately, they did not even have a special ticket reserved for bears, so I wasn’t able to go inside.

After walking around the shops at the pier and even admiring the gigantic Christmas tree standing by ready for the lighting, my new friend and I returned to the room for a quick bear nap before dinner.

~ Mr. Bear