Happy New Year!
2025 is indeed upon us, but let’s backtrack to last Saturday, Dec. 27 when we got together at my sister Susy’s house for one final Christmas celebration. You see, my niece Elena, her partner AJ and their son Jojo were visiting his family on Christmas Day so, she wanted to have the get together she missed on the 25th. It was nice, relaxing and enjoyable.
Monday, after a yummy takeout lunch from Lime Fresh Mexican Grill, I did one of my solo movie outings and headed to Aventura to see “Los Frikis,” a film that’s been a hit on the Film Festival circuit and stars some homegrown talent. I first heard about it last year when I went to hear the film’s producer Phil Lord speak at the Coral Gables Art Cinema and he mentioned the project. The movie is based on the heartbreaking and true story of a punk rock band in 1990s Cuba who in revolt of a government that forbids them to perform their brand of music, take measures into their own hands, with tragic consequences. Click here to read the synopsis and watch the trailer.
My French 75 cocktail lovingly prepared by Jacob Wutzler.
Beach walk view
View from the waterfront park.
Tuesday I spent some time at North Bayshore Park and then went for a walk on the beach with Vance. Then it was off to Casa Wutzler where we rung in the New Year Eve with dear friends. It was a quiet affair with great conversation, lots of laughs, champagne and French 75 cocktails and massive fireworks. It’s been a tradition for over a decade now and celebrating with them is always special. Elizabeth even joined us for a few hours before going off to a party with her friends.
View from our table at Snappers in Key Largo.
Fish dip platter from Snappers in Key Largo. (Photo by Vance)
Nick and Elizabeth in the big adirondack chair at Snappers.
Wednesday to celebrate the New Year, I planned a family trip to Key Largo. We spent some time at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park where we walked The Wild Tamarind Trail and tossed the football around. We then went across the street for snacks at John’s General Store, a cute spot I’d never seen before. After, we headed a bit south for lunch at Snappers where we got a lovely waterfront table. We had fish dip (some of the best I’ve ever had), conch fritters and coconut shrimp. A delectable feast for sure!
Yesterday, after a late lunch/early dinner with Monica at My Big Fat Greek Restaurant in Dania off Griffin Rd. in Broward where we had lentil soup, Greek salad and gyro strips, we went to see “Wicked.” I’d already seen it but I LOVED seeing it again and may see it just one more time. We saw it at Dania Pointe, an open-air mall that’s got lots of nice stores and shops.
Today, I’ve spent the day in front of the computer, working on an article, updating posts on South Florida on the Cheap and snacking way too much!
I’ll see you right back here next Friday for the second blog of 2025.
Sunset parting shot
