We got back to NYC and brought a couple of dozen fresh oysters with us. Tonight we're splitting a dozen, raw on the half-shell, in the traditional manner with cocktail sauce, lemon, a drop of vinegar, horseradish and and Red Stripe beer. They'll be served with a large salad with iceberg lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion, carrot strips, celery slices and some green pepper rings. French dressing. Homemade potato French fries.

When I skimmed your OP, NJCher, I read this: "...my main cookbook for this, Wrap It Up by Ann Colter..."

Quite a laugh. I wouldn't let that woman anywhere near my house let alone my kitchen!

but suppose to go on for hours. I'm going to start a pot of chili in just a bit. Hubs is at the doctor's office. Figure he'll be frozen through by the time he gets back home. He's headed to the "big city"... I'm just really anxious and nervous that he doesn't get lost or totally turned around and can't find his way home. Could use some calming vibes...

A bowl of 🌶️ chili sounds about right. 🥣

he's already taken wrong roads twice. But as long as she stays on the line, I think he'll make it home ok. When I finally got hold of him via phone he said he's NEVER coming back to this hospital again. We just don't do big cities. We moved up here to this small city because we're getting older, and every year I thank my stars we found a house we could pay cash for and move here. It's not the most exciting place, but it means a lot that, when push comes to shove, you can walk to a grocery store... or drive your ride around cart, like I've seen many do around here. (lol)

Popcorn later for the Illinois vs Purdue basketball game. Suppose to start snowing here around two hours from now. Prediction 1 to 3 inches, yuck I hate winter.

And a little miso mayo. Last night’s meatball recipe was a total yucko, so those leftovers ain’t happening

Peace y’all! 🍻

My local IGA had mini loaves of marble rye in the bakery and ground beef on sale. I made 3 small patties, and had 2, will save the 3rd for lunch tomorrow. I used sharp cheddar, not swiss cheese. I used creamy Italian, not 1000 Island. Sweet pickles on the side.

Been a long time since I had a patty melt, forgot how good they are, even modified

I should have made it on NYE, but had carry out instead.

it's our own invention Rooting through the fridge, we found a package of tortillas, not enough leftover meatloaf for two servings, a jar of red peppers, some cheese, and onions. Maybe some grapes for dessert