Starlink Fixes, Driverless Cabs & Alcatraz Dreams
Day 3 of Our 9-State Overlanding Adventure
We kicked off Day 3 with a quiet sunrise over a peaceful valley in California — a perfect start after two wild days on the road. I woke up early at my cousin Jason’s place, soaking in the view while Cayden still snored away in the tent.
But I had a mission.
Our Starlink power connection, which had failed back on Day 1, needed fixing. With Jason’s help and a bit of tinkering, we got it working again — a small win that felt huge when you’re living off-grid and online.
Golden Gate Glory & Waymo Weirdness
After packing up, we hit the highway toward San Francisco. The excitement grew as we approached the Golden Gate Bridge — and let me tell you, that moment was unforgettable.
The bridge stood tall above the water, the city rising beyond, and the views? Absolutely next level.
But things got even stranger as we entered the city. We were instantly surrounded by Waymo cars — driverless taxis with no one behind the wheel, just spinning sensors and silent stares. It was like stepping into the future… and honestly, a little creepy.
Parking was chaotic. The Waymo cars seemed to be everywhere and added to the madness as we tried to navigate the tight city streets.
The Haunting Beauty of Alcatraz
Our next stop was a bucket-list destination: Alcatraz Island.
We hopped on the ferry and sailed across the bay, the cold wind whipping our faces as the infamous prison crept closer. Stepping onto the island was surreal — the gray halls, the tiny cells, the eerie quiet… It felt like history was whispering through the walls.
We learned all about the infamous escape attempts, walked past the old showers, and even stood inside the cells where prisoners once dreamed of freedom. 
But Alcatraz surprised us. Among the decaying buildings and barred windows, we found bursts of unexpected beauty: vibrant wildflowers, panoramic views of San Francisco, and picture-perfect shots of the Golden Gate Bridge.
It was haunting… and breathtaking.
Reconnecting with Family & Creating Handmade Memories
After leaving Alcatraz, we headed to visit my other cousin, Marlow, who I hadn’t seen in nearly 28 years. He’s a teacher at a school in the area — still as creative and talented as I remember.
He gave us a tour of the school, and then we ended up in his woodworking shop. That’s where the real magic happened.
Cayden got hands-on and made his own wood cutting board and even crafted a glass heart. Watching him create something with his own two hands — with guidance from a cousin he just met — was one of those unforgettable moments you don’t plan, but never forget. 
As night fell, we hit the road in search of a place to camp. But no luck. Every campground was either full or closed for the night.
So once again, Walmart became our refuge — and let’s just say, it wasn’t much better than the first night. Uncomfortable? Yes. Worth it for the memories? Also yes.
Day 3 Takeaway: Beauty in the Unexpected
From early morning Starlink fixes to walking the haunted halls of Alcatraz, and reconnecting with long-lost family, Day 3 was packed with beauty, mystery, and personal milestones. It reminded us that some of the best parts of a road trip aren’t planned — they just happen when you’re open to the ride.
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