Ferry Building

Prior to our weather turning shivery and wintery two weeks ago (Hello Northern California? Moderate temperatures and global warming, remember?), and during a stunning weekend when Sweetpea was bored by her parents' sniffly noses and utter lack of energy, we took a ferry to the city simply because it seemed like it might entertain the youngest member of the family and get us back in her good books.

Since the rebirth of the Ferry Building on the Embarcadero a number of years ago, it has become a bustling hub not only for ferries, but for foodies.

If it has "funghi" or "porcini" on it, English hubby is all over it.

The interior is one massive marketplace for upscale food and wine, plus coffee shops and bookstores and more. It's worth a visit if you come to San Francisco.

It's also right at the end of Market Street, perfectly positioned for a ride on one of the trams from around the world (ours was from Milan).

And across the street from the Ferry Building is the holiday ice skating rink which was full of wobbly-ankled city dwellers, and a few gracefully gliding individuals. Sweetpea was desperate to try it again after being frustrated by her attempts last year, and after about 20 minutes of hollering and clutching the boards, she let go and became a skater. It was pretty great to watch, especially since she was so pleased with herself.

Waving goodbye from the ferry.

We totally redeemed ourselves as parents that day, and haven't since. But I have a feeling this time next week might put us back on the "Nice" list in her eyes.