Miami Spice

 So August in Miami is not the most weather-friendly time of year, though so long as the hurricanes leave us alone -- we ok.

A few years ago, local restaurants decided to start Miami Spice, which is a program where they offer special reduced prices menus in August, and now September. Norman suggested Barry and I go with him to Perry's a steakhouse in the Gables, and last night we did.

You have to ask for the menu -- why would they voluntarily tell out of Miami people about the great deal? We say, and Barry noticed the table next to us had a fellow in his 70s with a very hot woman in her late 20s or early 30s. "Father and daughter," I noted right away, and we all three laughed, as the two acted in no way like a father and daughter, unless they were from, say, West Virginia.

So the deal was for $60, you get a salad or soup, entree, and three desserts. We decided to act like 3 gay guys and get the three offered desserts, cheese cake, a chocolate tower, and creme brulee. All were great. Barry had scallop pasta and a caesar salad, Norman had french onion soup, and Norman and I each had the 8 oz filet, wrapped in bacon and topped with crabmeat lumps. The food was delicious, and over cocktails we solved the problems of our families, and medical and legal systems. If only more people would listen to us!!!!

I'm the only grandparent. Norman has one married son, who is going back to law school in NYC at the end of the month. Barry's oldest is marrying in March in D.C. I hope both get to experience the exquisiteness of grandkids, too -- our two have been as great as advertised.

Speaking of which, D1 and Joey are celebrating their 7th anniversary early -- headed to a Miami Beach hotel tonight. D1, with military precision, has all camp pick ups and drop offs planned, and my consuegra Jacqui is spending the night.

Wifey and I are assigned pickup of Little Man at the Miami Beach JCC tomorrow. D1 and Joey will be home later, and we will celebrate shabbat together. Ought to be lovely.

We did make big plans last night. Our beloved Canes open the season at hated Gatorland on 8/31. Norman's going to grill and host -- should be a great game -- Canes are favored to win.

When football starts, it's a breath of fresh air -- sort of affirmation that the dog days of Summer are nearing a close. Of course, we've had plenty of hurricanes in September and October, but at least the end seems in sight.

In November D1 turns 36!!!! The following month her oldest turns 5. Man, that Father Time is a stealthy bastard.

I recall driving D1 and Wifey home from South Miami hospital with total clarity, and introducing the beautiful baby girl to Midnight and Alfred, our Black Lab and Cocker Spaniel. They both licked her head -- and sure enough, a life long love of dogs began. Same thing for D2 -- she sort of knew right away she was joining a human/canine pack.

Today Dan the Gate Man just left -- replaced a gate arm. He was apologetic, but it wasn't his fault. "Stupid Chinese made crap -- doesn't last like it used to." That's ok -- I'm just thankful we can afford home repairs.

Back in 1987, a $1200 bill would have freaked me out. These days -- not so much.

So August slouches on -- humid and hot -- but with Miami Spice a nice treat. Maybe Wifey and I will partake Saturday night -- on a just the two of us date -- like back in the day.