Pacific Grove Day 2

 

After a good sleep-in, we got up and were ready for lunch. We had a lot of options, and since I had a Mexican food craving, we decided on El Torito. We approached the restaurant to see if they had outdoor dining as an option, and if there were a lot of people. They did offer outdoor seating. Most people wanted to sit inside, so we were lucky to be only one of two occupied tables outside.

This bull greeted us outside, and our table was right next to him.

We had this view from our table. Monterey Bay.

Wildlife

And another bird.

They have a good menu with much variety. I couldn't decide if I wanted an enchilada, or a taco, or chili relleno. So I picked the macho combo plate and was able to get all of them.

One thing I have desperately missed from eating in Mexican restaurants, was fresh chips and salsa. It was amazingly delicious.

Simple things like this, we have taken for granted. With each crunch of the chip, and the light and cold salsa, it was such a great feeling. I missed it.

The baby was curious about these chips.

This is what he had for lunch.

Mr Duffy and I shared this platter. Wow, the food was amazing. So tasty. The tamale was delicious, all the food was satisfying. We were stuffed! So we packed up our leftovers for later.

We paused to take in the view before leaving the restaurant.

Oh, to be right near the beach.

I miss the water when I am not near it.

If these whales could talk... they'd tell the tale of a photographer falling into a hidden hole who then suffered a terrible fracture.

We drove right down the road and found a place we could sit to take in the scenery. This was Asilomar Beach, and it was very windy.

If we had better footing, we might have gone down to look for tidepools.

It was so serene and refreshing to have a seat to just look at the water.

I needed this. And now my wanderlust has returned and it is strong. I am already planning two vacations.

After our time at the beach, we got in the car and went for a drive. After exploring by car, we went back to our hotel for more relaxing and just loving our time away. The next day, we would be returning home.

I felt safe traveling, we stayed away from others, kept our masks on, and avoided crowds.

If you have a chance to get out in a natural setting, you should do it. If it is a group of trees, or a body of water, go enjoy life.