Winterized-The Last Of '17, cuts from the Target's notebook.

"It's the one night of the year when we all act a little nicer, we, we smile a little easier, w-w-we cheer a little more!"

-Frank Cross, Scrooged

A Waterman's harbor. West OC commercial dock, 12/19/2017.

   A last sesh for the Crew. The Watt and Wife insisted as they were leaving at week's end for family in Chi-town. Being the sentimental Crewman that I am, I agreed. More than just the last meeting of the year; over beers and a signature Orange Crush as well as a few apps, we reflected on 2017. For the past is never gone as long as we remember. As I waited for the Watts to arrive, I recalled people, events, and memories. And while some are missed, in reality each memory brings a small smile and a warm feeling especially on a cold night. I thought back on just how much change the Crew has seen this year. With Wattman moving back to the Shore, the Crew was once again back on its feet. In addition, we now had LWatt joining us each week.

Winterized...Like our surf, watercraft put away for the season.

She has been a remarkable upgrade. While each previous member had added their own unique personality to the team, it has been LWatt who allowed us to revisit and perhaps see each session with a fresh, first-time view. The fact that I now got my own beach chair was an added bonus. The Watts finally arrived at our destination...Harborside Bar and Grill in West OC. 
   I had chosen to end the year and winterize at Harborside for a specific reason. While it may be a hip bar in the summer, once the dead of winter hits it reverts to its true identity. A working man's dive bar, its roots originating as a simple harbor bar where watermen and and locals can get a drink (or two or three), and good food without any gimmicks. This particular evening we had a townie Christmas celebration rolling and two groups of construction guys relaxing post-shift. Old school 80's tunes were playing in the background as we settle into our seats at the bar. Decked out for Christmas, the atmosphere fit the occasion perfectly. We ordered up the beverages. As in any true working man's bar, the liquid refreshments were served cold in true-pint glasses.

This being our Holiday finale, LWatt went off track and ordered Portobello Mushrooms stuffed with Lump Crab Imperial.  The Watt and I kept to the traditional: Chicken Quesadilla and Fish Tacos.  LWatt spoke highly of the mushrooms, but both Wattman and I strongly disagreed (we are not mushroom fans). The tacos each had a nice size chunk of fried cod that had a nice crunch, well built with a tasty mango salsa. While not stand-outs, they were enjoyed by all.

However, it was the quesadilla that was once again the surprise. It was huge. Think 14" pizza pie plate big. And not wired this time! Made with a flaky crust overflowing with sliced jalapenos, cheese, veggies, and lots of chicken. In fact this is one of the few times the Watt actually needed a doggie bag to take home for the day-after's lunch.

As we ate and jabbered, the night slowly caught up to us and it was time to hit the road. Upon leaving the warm confines of Harborside, we lingered in the parking lot extending mutual wishes for a safe holiday. Some might have called this a transition year. Some might question if we can or will continue. I think it's been a rebuilding year. A year where we could have gotten lost, but found our way again. A prelude to some new journeys and reclaiming some old ones. A successful Revival. For this reason, we ended the year on a positive note. None of the questions ever really matter as long as you have good friends. So...
...'til our next session...in January, 2018. 

THE RATINGS-

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms: B+

Fish Tacos: B-

Chicken Quesadilla: B+

Beer: C+

Atmosphere: B

Value: B-

Overall Score = 2.88

In plain English:
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the Crew!