Start Slow, Finish Slow

The intent was just to enjoy the day, finish a few Christmas purchases and veg out on a fair and sunny day. My shoulders have been sore for a couple of weeks and my left hand is numb on the outside and practically useless-weak. May be carpal something . NSAIDs and rest seemed reasonable. I am scaled way back on the gift giving save for immediate family. Money is tight and no obligations are gifts in themselves. Lori gave me some suggestions since I asked and I did those. They are quite generous to me and I am clueless in shopping for the well-off.

Tim wandered by with a sack full of Dolphin (Mahi, mahi- not Flipper). I invited Greg and Lew for dinner but they declined-they had steaks in the fridge but might stop by for dessert. I went to the big Publix in Lantana and K-Mart. I couldn't face WalMart even for the savings. I found everything I needed at good prices. The ritzy Publix is often cheaper than my little neighborhood one. I got a nifty small rice cooker/steamer for $10.00 at KMart. I had hit the Internet for Mahi recipes and needed a few ingredients.

I impressed Tim with Mahi cooked two ways: traditional with toasted pecans, and with Cajun/maple syrup glaze and glazed onions.. Both were very good. I served my marinated mushroom salad, jasmine rice, grilled hearts of romaine drizzled with olive oil, Chicago rolls, and store bought brownies. I blew the top off my little grill lighting it. That was impressive too. Tim was raving about the meal but he was also nearly paralytic with his meds and alcohol. I shan't get a big head about my culinary skills until I hear the same review in the glare of morning sunshine.
Greg called pleading an upset stomach so they did not come to share dessert. I listened to my iPod on my boombox, in the dark screenhouse, which was a very pleasant thing to do.