Rainy Days and Football Games (and a Birthday Dinner)

It is finally raining here in the FL panhandle and we can sure use it.  That also makes it a great day for watching football without feeling guilty about not being outside doing something.  A win/win situation if you ask me.

Yesterday was our friend Kenny's birthday and Mike put out a really nice spread for his best bud.

Of course we had to start off with a cocktail.  I made one of Kenny's favorites, Caribbean Cruiser.

 The it was time for the cold first course, seared Black Fin tuna (locally caught) with cucumbers, radishes and edamame topped with a spicy mayo and ponzu sauce.

 The warm second course picture should be here........but I didn't remember to take it until we were done eating it...oops.  Anyway it was delicious Tomato Cream Shrimp Risotto.

 Salad course was a simple but tasty Baby Spinach salad with Warm Bacon dressing.

 Main course was Braised Beef Shortribs in a Red Wine sauce, homemade Sharp White Cheddar Mac n' Cheese and Fried Brussels Sprouts (individual leaves) with capers and vinegarette.  The brussels sprout recipe is courtesy of Chef Michael Symon.  These are absolutely delicious!  I could not stop eating them.

Okay, we cheated on dessert. We just couldn't decide what to make, we were flummoxed.  So we picked up a small Chocolate Fudge birthday cake from Walmart.  Let me tell you this was an excellent birthday cake. chocolatey and fudgey, mmmmmmm!

Here's the Birthday Boy.

Here's the Birthday Boy's wife.

Lily also attended the party.......she loves the Birthday Boy.

Ed also attended but even though he is fast approaching 8 years old, he still can not contain himself around company.  So he enjoys the party from the comfort of his kennel which is placed amid the festivities.  He does get to come out and go outside with the boys when they enjoy their cigars.

And here is Birthday Boy's wife showing us her dance moves to her favorite song "Brickhouse".  Shake it, girl!

I think it is safe to say a good time was had by all.