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REVISITED

LIGHT

the

Joy

December 2005 -

Here's a fresh look at the delightful maritime

neighborhood we first visited this

past Spring.

Two dramatic things have changed in this unique community since we were here last April. The first is predictable - the further encroachment of new construction.

Buildings are now going up along the shoreline just north - Pile drivers provide the wake-up call on most weekday mornings. The view of the downtown skyline will soon be gone - as will the view of the sunset behind Twin Peaks.

The second change is more encouraging. Rather than moping over the continued development around their quiet marina - the residence are doing a major habitat restoration along the banks of their Mission Creek homes.

And - surprise - the neighbors who are moving into the new apartments and condominiums around them - are coming down out of their lofty perches to pitch-in and help with all of the clearing and planting!

Jenny (ABOVE) is one of the many

marina inhabitants volunteering to develop and maintain the impressive garden that surrounds the flotilla of houseboats here.

In a time where much of the rich fabric and spirit of the 'old' San Francisco is vanishing. Mission Bay Marina is a shinning exception - and a delightful reminder of much that is good in the human heart.

(ABOVE / LEFT) - A pink bow adorns a Mission Creek 'Grande Dame' - seen next with her 'person'.

(ABOVE) - The Mission Creek Orchard - Winter Edition.

(LEFT) - The Mission Creek Taxi Company - 'parked' here alongside a good example of the splendid bank restoration being created by neighborhood volunteers.