Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
The roosters had accomplished their duty; they woke us up. We headed to the firepit to consume significant quantities of coffee before walking into the garden.
Scout was enjoying the attention he received as he made his way around, and we kept him away from the fire so that his tail wouldn’t get burned.
We sat by the fire, had our coffee, and planned the day!
Once the sprinklers completed their cycle, we had to confirm that all the emitters were working properly. It’s important for plants to receive water at their roots, especially during hot weather.
Slurp, gurgle, burp! No charge for the sound effects!
Scout came over and put his head in my lap, requesting some serious scratching. He’s quite affectionate. He knows that crows will be visiting soon, so he must be prepared. Scout is skilled at keeping an eye on the crows.
“Nonny! You are scaring me!!”
It’s 11:00 am, and we’re getting ready to drive to San Juan Capistrano in the Silver Fox. We plan to have lunch and catch up with Christen, my third cousin, and her husband. Additionally, Pete and Lisa will be joining us.
We arrived at our destination earlier than expected, and the girls unanimously decided that shopping was a top priority. Colleen spotted a Chico’s store, and without wasting any time, they rushed inside. Shopping can be considered one of the most physically demanding activities, yet it is often overlooked. Perhaps it should be in the Olympics; everything else is these days!
Men can say things in stores women can’t believe, like, “But I already have a pair of black pants.”
Shopping in San Juan Capistrano.
Three doors down was our restaurant. It was The Cedar Creek Inn, but now it is Tavern At The Mission. The menu was quite diverse, and everyone found something they liked.
Did You Know? Renowned orange county restaurateur David Wilhelm and longtime friend and partner Gregg Solomon recently purchased this iconic location in the heart of charming downtown San Juan Capistrano overlooking the jewel of the California missions.
The menu features many of his signature classic comfort foods, such as his Famous Buttermilk Fried Chicken, French 75’s Onion Soup, and Whiskey Shrimp Dijon, featured at his Tavern House kitchen+bar in Newport Beach.
Chef Wilhelm is a longtime South County resident well known for the many concepts he has created and operated, including Kachina, Sorrento Grille, French 75, Savannah Chophouse, and Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern.
Tavern at the Mission has a beautiful tree-covered, pet-friendly patio with views of Mission San Juan Capistrano and a warm interior with two fireplaces.
Pete and Lisa joined us; it has been a long time.
Our waitress, Davis, was outstanding. She was very attentive and played along with the jokes we were all making. We were delighted with her service and left her a generous tip to show our appreciation.
Pete and Grain hit it off; both are Marines.
I ordered a foo-foo appetizer for the guys; they ate it but are Marines, and they will eat anything. Who would eat “Duck and Copngac Moose” on toast?
I ordered “sissy appetizers” for the Marines!
Pete and Lisa had to leave early, but Brian and I stayed awhile. We enjoyed some 18-year-old scotch to cap off our lunch. The groceries were excellent. Our antics entertained the ladies.
So nice to get re-acquainted.
I didn’t spot any rabbit ears, but I wasn’t surprised. She takes after her father, my second cousin David Mall, who we lost years ago.
She must be related to me.
It’s appropriate to show affection whenever you feel like it. It would be nice if people didn’t need to yell, “Get a room!” at kissing couples. “I wasn’t kissing her; I was whispering in her mouth!” ~ Leonard Marx
Smooch!
I think this should be posted on Facebook. Beautiful people; we love family.
Related, but it is complex!
On our way home, Joe called, and he was on his way home from Mount Herman, a yearly retreat he and his family attend.
Joe called; they were on their way home!
After arriving home, we briefly rested before heading out to Victorio’s in Huntington Beach for a delicious Italian dinner and to enjoy our favorite piano player.
We enjoyed dinner, and the music was terrific!
Our daughters make things wonderful!
Picture of a person taking a picture!
I was tired, so Colleen drove us back home, and Robin departed soon after we arrived. Tomorrow is shaping up to be another busy day!
