Sometimes the best laid plans are canceled.

That’s what happened to me on July 3. The intrepid public relations person for Char-Broil had cajoled the producer of the local ABC affiliate TV station to feature me in a live segment called “Grilling Tips for the 4th” scheduled to air live on the 4pm newscast last Friday, July 3rd.  She painstakingly talked me through all of the necessary elements to making a good impression. (You can believe she has her work cut out with me!) Unfortunately sometime during the night before the scheduled event the newsroom electronic equipment had a short-circuit that resulted in a fire – and the entire building was closed down.

When I arrived at 3pm Friday, a full hour ahead of schedule to ensure I was prepped and ready, the entire TV station was operating out of remote trailers – reporters and camera operators scurrying about from temporary control room to hastily rigged outdoor studio on the sidewalks and in street – cordoned off with that yellow crime scene police tape.  They were just trying to get the real news on the air.  I presented myself at the temporary news assignment desk and the fellow frowned at me.  He was polite as could be, as he explained the issue of the fire and how they were only airing reporters but I could tell by his face he was thinking “Whoa buddy – get a grip – what’s more important telling the real news or showing pictures of you grilling?”

I was canceled.  Obviously he and I have different priorities!

So there I was…sitting in my fully loaded rig with an Urban Grill and a cooler full of meat.  What to do?  I called my friends and suggested they come over to enjoy an impromptu picnic in the back-yard garden of my friend Allison.  All agreed and several brought salads, sides, etc.  I got busy setting up and grilling.  One extra benefit of cooking in a lovely garden is the availability of fresh herbs for adding flavor when cooking as well as to make appealing presentations.

The results?  Friends came together to enjoy laughter, share good food and talk about all the wonderful privileges we enjoy as citizens of this fine country.

As for the food, well – I didn’t do too poorly. See for your own self.

Grilled ribeye steaks resting before slicing for presentation.

Ribeye steaks cut into individual portions & garnished with thyme .

Grilled boneless & skinless chicken breasts - whole & in smaller portions - garnished with freshly picked rosemary & grape leaves.

Have you ever had a planned meal go “wrong” that turned out right? Share your experiences in the comment section or send me an email.

Happy Grilling!