Monday was housekeeping day. Early morning I visited the laundromat, followed by repacking. We left our son’s apartment and taxied up to the San Francisco Marriott. Regular check-in is at 4 pm but our room was ready so we were able to get in and unpacked by 1 pm. Friendly staff and a smooth check-in.

We walked over to Mel’s Drive-In, a retro restaurant on Mission Street, less than a block from the Marriott. Burgers, vanilla shake, and a cherry coke. Mel’s was crowded. There is a government union conference going on at the Hilton and at the Moscone Conference Center – thousands of union members.

Shopping abounds around the hotel. I discovered The Container Store, two-stories of every type of container you can imagine. It’s a fun store to browse and is just across the street from the Marriott.

Old Navy also sits across the street, corner of Market and 4^th. Walk a few hundred feet more and you’ll find the Westfield San Francisco Shopping Centre, home to Nordstroms and many other fine stores. Walgreen’s and Rite Aid are also nearby, both within a block, a less expensive source for conference necessities.

The Westfield San Francisco Shopping Centre also has an upscale food court on the lower level. Our son joined us for a simple dinner there Monday night. The San Francisco Soup Company offered hearty bowls of soup. Dessert was at The Melt for mouth-watering gelato.

At the hotel, the RWA Board has had two days of meetings. The hotel is becoming lively as other excited RWA members check in.

On Tuesday, Kiss of Death tours U.S. Customs. Meanwhile my husband and I bus to the Legion of Honor Museum for a Woman Impressionist exhibit then back to Chinatown in the afternoon.

Thanks to all for your comments, both posted and private. I’m glad you are enjoying this.

Check back tomorrow!