Guests Arriving

Karen welcomes her initial guests, TJ and Sandy.

There's Bill, TJ and Ruthie!

Almost all are now present, certainly we don't wait to have cocktails.

The complete hosts!

When you have a dedicated bartender, you don't wait. With our tasting cups safely secured around our necks, the party begins.

Limbo anyone?

Sue has had her first toss of the drink selection dice, and is ready to dance. TJ is already dancing..

All needs provided for in the alfresco environment

There is much rum, wine, beer and such to consume. Karen & Joe have provided a men's lav most conveniently.

The men discuss.

Charlie asks, "You don't really think??? I mean it's not high enough for me!"

The Gourmet Club assembled.

Our first full group pic I think. Usually one of us is taking the photos. Thanks Matt.

We begin in earnest.

Joe gives all a welcoming toast, and the evening is officially underway.

Appetizers!!!

Papaya Salsa & Brie, with Tortilla wedges. Believe me, this went quickly. Kudos to Sandy & Charlie.

Talk about devastation!

The presentation was actually very pretty before we noticed how good it tasted. Try this sometime this summer, you'll be pleased.

Then came the Ceviche

The shrimp, scallops and fish with the endeive used as a spoon..... Talk about conforming to a low carb diet. Thanks Ruthie.

Bill confers with TJ...

"I don't really care for the fireplug", he says, "Don't you think I could sneak up here?

Sherry confers with Dan...

"Bill wouldn't would he?" Dan's reply, "Well he is Navy, and old habits die hard."

Majority rules...

The girls vote down Bill's alternate plans.

Order restored, first course served....

Note the formality... name plates, another toast (of course), and a delicious cold tropical soup from TJ and Bill. A superb summer dish to begin the meal.

Is it indigestion?

Everyone wonders why Brian is standing... He's usually not standing this late in the party! Oh, he's saying how delicious Sherry & Dan's Coconut Bread with Pineapple Butter is.

Another Caribbean delight...

This orange and avocado salad, to die for. Thanks Beth & Craig.

Matt to the rescue...

With all of the citrus we've consumed, we are safe from scurvy... Rum must be poured if we are to retain our sea legs...

Finally, something hot...

The entree, Karen & Joe's Jamaican Chicken & Papaya, with Sue & Mike's Caribbean Rice & Beans, topped our island fare.

But Matt topped that...

An unexpected dessert... Tembleque with Mango and Lime salad. This was a delicious custardy creation, with a piquant sauce.

It grows late...

Some people stay until the last shot is fired... or drank.

The Bluvas family at repose...

Sarah chides, "I didn't think they's ever leave".

Why would we??? A delightful evening with wonderful hosts! Thanks, Karen, Joe, Matt & Sarah.