A few weeks ago during one of those scorching San Francisco days, I took my workouts around the city and continue to explore every special neighborhood inside and out. Though this adventure happened a few days ago, I chose to share it on one special day — my 35th birthday, because these are the types of tales that hold a special place in my heart.
I did the Lyon Street Stairs a few times and when I finally gave up, I decided to go on a hike throughout the Presidio. Since the temps were supposed to be nearly 80 degrees, I packed a bikini and some sunscreen and decided to hit the beach afterwards.
Well in theory, it was all simple and harmless. I took a couple of great trails, saw some killer views and snapped a few photos (I mean, obviously). When I made it to the cliff near Baker Beach, I decided to take the road less traveled and completely disregarded the stairs, as I figured there was going to be a nature trail that’d lead to the beach.
Boy, was I wrong. No only was the trail non-existant, but by the time I realized the aforementioned situation, it was way too late to head back up. So picture this: Yours truly (who is deathly afraid of heights, btw) stuck in the middle of a cliff. I had a few options, but after careful consideration I opted to keep calm and carry on (who knew Winston Churchill had such a strong impact on me!).
So here is how it all went down (literally speaking, that is) — I calmly and slowly went down the cliff, solely concentrating on every step I took. I conquer my altitude fears and avoid vertigo, I looked straight and refused to look down. Also, I thought it was too late head back up and simply told myself ‘just do it, you can finish and go on.’
Thirty-five minutes later, as I approached the beach, I noticed an abundance of skin and a lack of bathing suits, which as I put two and two together I realized it was the nude section of the beach, so I had to suck it up, deal and keep a straight face. When I made it to the bottom, I was helped by the sweetest couple and even made a couple of new pals. They all said that pretty much no one makes it uninjured and how even the Coast Guard has been called more than once. My thoughts went from lucky to grateful, considering the last thing I’d want is to end up on the local news.
All aside, it was an amazing day that taught me so much about the human body strength, persistence and not giving up. When I was stranded at the cliff, I could have given up and started crying but instead to kept going, finished and felt like a champ. Now that I am about to experience new summer adventures and beginnings, I am using this lesson as a mantra and way to keep good vibes. Oh yeah and after all the climbing and sweating, I took a dip in shark-infested Pacific waters which made this one epic monday afternoon.
Sometimes the best adventures are the roads less taken, as they are filled with spontaneity and memories.
I am so ready to see what this next year has in stock for me — as I say hello to my mid-3os.
Ryzenberg, On is signing off
