I was expecting company this evening, but apparently the housing crisis (i.e.: bank/mortgage hassles) thwarted that plan, so I et alone (mispelling very much intended). Thusly, the grill nicely charred marinated shortribs with J-eggplant and shitakes (both smothered in olive oil, garlic and parsley) as well as (of course) some grilled bread with hummus and a salad comprised mainly of those irresistible Persian cukes (again). A couple of bottles of dark beer and a Soma (long day in the garden) and I'm almost a bit relieved that my dinner companion couldn't make it as I'm way too tired to be funny and charming... going to watch Pinocchio (Disney, 1940) which is on tonight if I can manage to stay awake long enough.
Some pic of part of the meal to be attached.