The family is up in the hotel room. We just finished the late night pizza we had delivered to the hotel. I wanted a night cap, so I headed down to the bar.
They had Knob Creek at the Conrad Hotel Bar. I sat and listened to this older man attempt to charm these two attractive women. They were old friends, the women, one living in NYC and the other visiting, I surmise. They were Latin or Spanish. He was short, with a shaved bald head. He was doing a pretty good job of entertaining them. When last call was given and the bar essentially made everyone leave, I planted myself on a couch in the lobby to finish my second drink. I was kind of curious to see if the older man was entertaining enough to get an upstairs invite. I never got confirmation of this, as I lost track of them and emptied my glass.
The last two times I purchased a bottle of bourbon for the house, it was Old Forester. I am still searching for my go-to, but for now I will stick with that.
I have been reading The Secret History almost every day, still not finished but I am getting there. I am at the part where Richard is learning more about his friends. First about Henry from Charles and then about Charles and Camilla from Francis. I think last night, Richard was getting ready to have a long conversation with Julien…so I am sure more will come to light.
I am hoping to read a graphic novel after this (I cannot remember the title, but not From Hell) and also get into a couple of the poetry books I have on hand (Raymond Carver, David Berman).
Me and the family saw the play To Kill A Mockingbird tonight. Ed Harris played Atticus Finch. He was very good and I imagine that Jeff Daniels’ portrayal would have been good in a much different way. I think it is helpful to be familiar with the book and movie, but it is not necessary. The story is told in a different way. Some minor characters are more fleshed out. Some relationships between other characters are more deeply explored. I do not want to give too much away.
I am putting together a simple menu for dinner with friends for next Saturday. A NYC inspired menu of sorts. It will comprise of the following:
An appetizer of roasted chestnuts; A salad of boston bibb (plus one other variety for contrast), sun dried tomatoes, toasted panko, and a shallot vinaigrette; Matzo Ball Soup; Paprika Brisket served with white rice and buttered broccoli; and finally, a dessert of store bought German chocolate cake. Course beverages TBD.
