We are back from a little get away to the Monterey Coast. We stayed at Mission Ranch in Carmel and roamed around some places that used to be our old stomping grounds when we lived down there in the early 2000s. The weather was perfect, and we enjoyed revisiting many of the places we used to enjoy. Things have changed so much though. Many of the shops and other businesses we used to frequent closed during Covid and their replacements just aren't as charming. 

I will say Mission Ranch had the best avocado toast I have ever had. The presentation was amazing. It was your basic slice of French bread, topped with mashed and seasoned avocado, but the garnishes were above and beyond. There were a couple of different types of radishes, watercress, tiny cherry tomatoes, and a fine grinding of sea salt over all. It was beautiful to look at and every bite was delicious. It was so good, I went back the next day and had it again!

Honestly, doesn't that look like an exotic French pastry? It was so pretty.

We loved staying at the Ranch, owned by none other than Clint Eastwood, former mayor of Carmel By The Sea. We had several meals outside on the deck overlooking the ocean and a meadow full of bleating sheep. It was quite lovely. Clint is in his 90s now and doesn't make many public appearances. I recall back in the 90s, we went to Mission Ranch with my parents-in-law and as we were entering the restaurant, Clint Eastwood himself was exiting. We literally were inches apart. And Larry, my sweet father-in-law, spoke right up and said "Hi Clint!" He was such a big fan of Clint Eastwood's movies and felt like they were old friends! I was kind of hoping the Earth would open up and swallow me, but Mr. Eastwood made eye contact with dear Larry and said something such as "How you doing?"

I am having my house cleaned today, so I doubt I will get any sewing done, but we are coming up on the weekend, and I have nothing on the calendar, so hopefully there will be quilty content on Monday.

Hope you are all having a great week!