Back from a break

I took a few days off surrounding the 21st anniversary of my 21st birthday. I'd like to say I partied like it's 1991, but I'd be lying. On the plus side, I didn't have to stumble back to my dorm room, only to find a sock tied to the doorknob. Don't ask.

But there were good friends and plenty of cold beer. I made this chili recipe for the first time. In fact, it might be the first time I've made chili from a recipe. But I was intrigued by the inclusion of some spices that I never considered putting in chili. And not being too set in my ways even at this ripe old age,  I gave it a go. It was elaborate, but delicious.

And because a huge pot of chili is not nearly enough, I smoked a 7-pound brisket, purchased from Nelson's Meat Market, a joint you must check out if you have not. Took about six hours and turned out great. My wife made me an awesome Jell-O cake, because some of my tastes have evolved very little since I kept my school lunch ticket in a Velcro AC/DC wallet.

And I'd like to extend special thanks to Mitt Romney for picking Paul Ryan. I now read in the papers that age 42 is "youthful and energetic." I feel better already. Except for the heartburn.

So I'm settling back in. Reading important dispatches, etc. Good to be back.