May 17

Today was the day designated for a trip up the highway to visit Casa Romantica in San Clemente.

We kind of got a late start, and arrived around 1:30, so only had about 30 minutes to view the place, which turned out okay, as it wasn't really large.  But, they were preparing for a private event, so caterers were running around inside setting up, which kind of took away from the ambiance.  However, there were spectacular views of the ocean and the pier.

When we left, we drove down to the pier area, with the idea that we might park and get out and stroll around and catch some lunch down there.  But, parking was scarce, and we didn't want to park in a pay lot, so we drove up to the main, downtown street, where we found free parking.  Walked up and down the street, and finally decided to have lunch at a walk-in deli.  Got some sandwiches and sat outside on the patio - after I chased away a couple of pigeons that were freaking Louise out!

From there, we drove up the highway about 15 minutes to San Juan Capistrano Mission.  I've been there before a couple of times, but it had been a while.  Again, we got there a little late, and they were closing early due to private events.  The interior courtyard was all set up for the event, caterers running around everywhere, and we couldn't even go into the chapel becuz of a private event.  Which we thought was a raw deal - we paid our money and got short-changed.  Why don't they hold off on the private events till after hours?  Should've asked for a discount.  We could've spent a lot more time exploring the place, and maybe I'll post a complaint on their Facebook page.

Drove back to San Diego, and stopped at Whole Foods to pick up some dinner from their deli bar.