Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Most of the day was pretty standard, starting with getting twisted and bent by the tormentors at the gym. I told them my arm does not bend that way, but they did it anyway! I will be out of traction in a few weeks, but feel free to stop by and sign the cast!
Returning home in an ambulance, we wobbled into the backyard to visit the veggies. I moved SLOWLY to the grapes and got several to my mouth using the one remaining arm.
We got ready to go to the Pageant of the Masters, and Vicky has our Fearless Leader this evening. Dianne came by around 3:00 pm and we departed soon thereafter, taking The Silver Fox down the 55 to the 73 to the 133.
On each evening of the Festival of Arts summer schedule, ticket holders are amazed and enchanted by two hours, including a 15-minute intermission, of tableaux vivants (living pictures), incredibly faithful recreations of classical and contemporary works of art, with real people posing to look exactly like their counterparts in the original pieces.
An outdoor amphitheater, professional orchestra, original score, live narration, intricate sets, sophisticated lighting, expert staff, and hundreds of dedicated volunteers have won recognition for the Pageant of the Masters as the best presentation of its kind.
Vicky made reservations at The Lumberyard, just a few blocks away from the event.
It is over 100 years old!!
In 1912, at the bend of Forest Avenue, 23-year-old Joe Jahraus opened the Laguna Lumber Company. He and his father(cigar maker, first postmaster, and real estate agent) built the beautiful French Normandy building that is here today.
Before the lumberyard opening, building supplies needed to be dragged in by mule or floated in on the tides, and therefore, Laguna Beach had fewer than three hundred permanent residences. After the Lumberyard opened, the area began to grow at unprecedented rates, transforming it from a tent town into a thriving city. Laguna Lumber operated for seventy-three years, sixty-two of them in this location, and its architecture, influenced by Joe’s tour abroad in World War I, is one of the most significant influences on the town’s aesthetic.
Half timbers, mud walls, and shingled roofs grace many of the downtown storefronts and homes throughout the city because of this landmark. Today, 384 Forest is home to Lumberyard – a contemporary American restaurant.
I had two selections from the “Tinned Fish” menu! The meal was outstanding, and the company was even better! I also ordered a tin of fish for Bill Capps, who was initially wary of my motives but eventually admitted it was pretty good.
Yummy and unique!
At The Lumberyard, they bring a global seafood sensation to Laguna Beach with their newly curated Tinned Fish selection! These delicacies, once a staple of European coastal cuisine, have evolved into gourmet treasures prized by chefs and food lovers alike. But what exactly makes tinned fish so special, and why is it having such a moment in the culinary spotlight?
A Brief History of Tinned Fish: The art of preserving fish in tins dates back to the early 19th century, pioneered by French inventor Nicolas Appert, who developed a method to keep food fresh for longer voyages. Soon, coastal countries across Europe—like Spain and Portugal—adopted this technique to preserve their bountiful seafood catches. Today, tinned fish is a beloved delicacy, celebrated for its rich flavors, convenience, and the unique aging process that enhances taste over time.
Who’s Enjoying Tinned Fish and Why? Originally popular among sailors and workers for its practicality, tinned fish is now a trendy choice among foodies and chefs who appreciate its nuanced flavors and versatility. From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy tapas bars, these tins are popping up on menus worldwide. It’s more than just preserved seafood; it’s an artisanal experience. With over 45 varieties on our menu, you’ll find everything from Spanish octopus to Portuguese sardines and Galician mussels, each offering a unique taste of the ocean’s best.
What to Expect from Their Tinned Fish Experience: At The Lumberyard, they serve their tinned fish with an array of pickled vegetables and crisp crackers, inviting you to explore these delicacies in a casual, shareable way. It’s perfect as an appetizer, an adventurous snack, or even paired with one of our California wines. Be sure to ask about our full selection. Each tin tells its own story of coastal waters, artisanal craft, and flavors that only get better with time.
When is the Best Time to Try Tinned Fish? The answer is anytime! Tinned fish makes for a deliciously versatile experience that you can enjoy as a light bite before your main course or as the star of your meal. Its depth of flavor and variety ensure there’s always something new to discover. So whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to try something different, our tinned fish menu is ready to take you on a culinary journey around the world.
Dinner was fun with new people joining us this year!
Bill and Sandee Capps
Our hosts for this evening…
Jim and Vicky!
The official wine tasters!
Paul & Mary
Dianne is ready to see the show!!
John and Linda joined us this evening.
Always a load of fun!!!
I tried to have them select some “tinned fish” but I was unsuccessful!
Craig, Brenda, and her Mom also joined us for considerable horseplay at dinner.
Dianne and Mary pose at the entrance to the theater.
Having been here for the past thirty years, we brought a bankie!”
At half time, their girls went where girls usually go, but on the way back, they spotted the vehicle used in the performance that evening. It took both Dianne and Mary to keep Vicky from driving off.
Definitely Fire Engine Red!!
Remember, we brought a bankie. Well, the temperature got down into the 60s, and the bankie came out, and it was large enough to cover the three of us.
We were snug as a bug in a rug!
10:45 pm and the show is over. We waited until the crowds had dissipated before leaving; why sit in traffic?
Dianne and Mary!
I relayed the story when I was asked to be in the performance. Being fairly astute, I wondered in what work of art. When they mentioned “The Statue of David”, I opted out. I did NOT want to be known as “shortie” the rest of my life! I also thought they would be asking themselves, “Is that a boy or a girl?”
I would have needed a larger blanket!!
We got to the car, which was parked close to the entrance. Getting home was a breeze since all the people who left as soon as possible had already gone.
It was close to 11:15 pm when we got home, and Dianne headed for her house immediately. We were both tired, so we hit the sack soon thereafter.
Thank you, Vicky, for another incredible adventure into the world of art!!
