The Scene of the Crime

We had an incredible lunch with mom and William and Kimberly were able to see her apartment decorated for the holiday. Michael met us at our favorite BBQ place. It is the best one we have found since returning from our southern trips. The owner has gotten to know us and came by to say hello. Will/Kim are huge BBQ lovers when they travel and were impressed by the quality of the pulled pork.

Late yesterday afternoon, we opened a bottle of Opus One that someone gave to Michael. He saved it to share with his son. Instead of serving it with a big hunk of red meat, we went to an exceptional market and William chose several cured meats and cheeses and nuts and quince. The combination of those foods with the wine was excellent. I was able to just take a sip as I was the driver for the evening. After enjoying our goodies together, we returned to the scene of the crime.

After a hilarious evening with my niece and her friend (the entire story told here:  http://livingwellwithabaddiagnosis.blogspot.com/2012/09/a-night-to-remember.html), we took William and Kimberly to that same restaurant last night. It is owned by Chuck, who was present and sent over orders of garlic bread after we ordered fresh oysters and the famous crab sandwich for Will/Kim, we had some meat strips. And cocktails. Lots of cocktails. I had three glasses of water!

A seven-piece "Big Band" was playing, we sat in a 1950s era banquette area and watched the dancing. There was an older couple (probably our age!) who clearly had been dancing together for decades and were so much fun to watch. Soon, many couples joined them on the dance floor.

After meeting Chuck and a having nice conversation together, William commented that he was a great guy - so true. We all relaxed. They loved the place as much as Shelley and Tracy loved it. It is funky and old and right on the ocean and just an authentically real place.

Michael entertained them as he was both charming and hilarious. He kept them laughing most of the evening.

We were all so surprised when, after asking for the check, the waitress announced that the bill was taken care of by Chuck. She started to leave, we called her back and she got a lot of money as a tip. She also got teary-eyed and quickly left after many thank yous. I guess people forget to tip under those circumstances.

There was a series of storms beginning to blow in last evening with actual lightening and thunder. It was really storming as we made our way home. We drove a very dangerous road along the cliffs in an area called Devil's Slide. Thank goodness I know the road and we got home safely. Rather scary.

This morning, the three of them are heading to a famous hot rod builder's shop. Chuck gave Michael a gift certificate to give to the parts guy there and Michael wants to show Will/Kim the showroom and shop. He also has to pick up a few things. While they are there, I am going to sleep, have my eyebrows waxed and make some Sugar-Glazed Walnuts for the neighbors and William. The food shopping for Christmas will begin early tomorrow morning. Michael is coming along to help me.

Tonight's plan? I think William is going to make us some southern-style Shrimp and Grits. Sunday, they will be gone all day to have some brunch with friends in the city then they need to finish Christmas shopping. I will begin the cooking for Christmas day.

I am having fun. I am so out of my routine but being very cautious about not over-doing it. I really don't want to get sick!