“You can barbecue it, boil it, broil it, bake it, saute it. Dey’s uh, shrimp-kabobs, shrimp creole, shrimp gumbo. Pan fried, deep fried, stir-fried. There’s pineapple shrimp, lemon shrimp, coconut shrimp, pepper shrimp, shrimp soup, shrimp stew, shrimp salad, shrimp and potatoes, shrimp burger, shrimp sandwich. That- that’s about it.” ~ Pvt. Benjamin Buford “Bubba” Blue, Forrest Gump

 

Anyone who knows me is aware of the fact that seafood is one of my all-time favorite foods (and that is saying something, as I am a food lover to the core). So, when I heard that there was going to be an Oyster and Beer Festival this weekend, you can bet that my money came out in a flash and a blur.

It was held at the Navy Yard, down by the Nationals baseball stadium. I bought the VIP tickets (pinkies out), which granted me access to a buffet of all-I-could-eat mussels, clams, shrimp, cajun boils, lobster, crawfish, and oysters three ways: grilled, steamed, and raw. There was free booze too (hence the other half of the title), but I wasn’t about to fill up on alcohol when my own little slice of heaven was laying before me. Ain’t nobody got time for that.

My favorite of the smorgasbord was the grilled oyster, particularly the one flavored with BBQ sauce and goat cheese (I’m salivating at its memory). I went through that line twice, the second time bringing about a conversation with a woman from North Carolina, visiting her boyfriend for the weekend.  She has been a volunteer for four years with an organization that helps victims of domestic violence in her area. Her specific job was being a liaison at an NC hospital, specializing in emergent situations. The love of seafood brings in a great catch, people (pun absolutely intended).

After hours of enjoying the plentiful bounty and some great live music, it was time to depart. However, I couldn’t leave without taking a selfie in front of the beautiful photo booth one of the vendors provided. The sun practically blinded me, but that smile is a reflection of utmost contentment in the world (and belly) of yours truly.

 

(Did you notice the blog’s new layout perchance? Pretty nifty, huh? You’re welcome to peruse, for there may be a surprise or two tucked into its contents. Happy exploring!)