Carol and I had reconnected before our 50th class reunion, even though we had not seen each other in years. During 6th grade through high school, we had been good friends, and even lived in the same neighborhood.
I took her to some of my favorite places.....here she is at the Dana Point Harbor near the Ocean Institute.
We also visited Doheny State Beach in Dana Point. Ocean waves and smells are among her favorite things.
We had to go to The Brig Restaurant....I never fail to eat there when I visit Dana Point.
A little ways from Dana Point is the world famous town of San Juan Capistrano.
Within the town is Mission San Juan Capistrano. Carol had never seen a California Mission, and she loved it. We both took lots of pictures and enjoyed our Catholic heritage on display.
Despite the California drought, the Mission had lots of gardens to enjoy....from Cacti to Bouganvillia.
The lily pond was spectacular on that day.
Back in Dana Point, we went to the actual "Point". She thought that the edge of the point looked like the face of a Native American.
The harbor was picturesque and serene.
Back home I took Carol to Big Tree Park. This fig tree was planted in 1880, and came from Australia. It's huge!
I think we like trees......here she is under an ancient olive tree at a place called Graber's Olives where they had two lovely gift shops.
We also visited Rancho Santa Ana Botanical Park, and her favorite exhibit were the Joshua Trees.
Duane and I had to take Carol to our favorite Mexican Restaurant, Casa del Rey. What is California without Mexican restaurants?
Another favorite of ours is the Golden Spur. We didn't go hungry on this vacation!
And what is a blog without a baby! Carol got to meet my son Adam, his wife Melissa, and baby Bronson.
On our final day, my plumeria bloomed, just for Carol.
So sad to see her leave and go back to McHenry.
But, my favorite part of the time we spent was when she gave me this cross that she had purchased from the Mission.......and she has its twin! I love you Carol!
