A strange meteorological phenomenon is gripping the Washington area--newscasters agree that the weather is no longer trying to kill an unprotected human. We took advantage of the weather to enjoy dinner on our back deck. For the unfamiliar, the "deck" is a rude wooden platform cantilevered off the side of the house; it is mainly used to repel pirates, but does just fine as an informal seating area.
In the picture, I am toasting Max. I am enjoying a snippy sauvignon blanc from Trader Joe's; Max is enjoying an excellent fortified MBM.