This week in Fulton, Texas, a few blocks from where we live, will be the annual Oysterfest. The carnival rides are already in place. Events will begin Thursday evening and run through Sunday. If the wind is right Saturday night we will have the bands in our bedroom! It's okay once a year. Money raised goes for a good cause. There will also be lots of delicious local oysters.
An oyster is an interesting marine animal. He or she or he (they change sexes during their lifetime) lives in the same shell at the same address for his/her/his lifetime. Reminds me of some folks I have known. (living in the same place). They are soft-bodied with two very hard shells. Ever try to get one from it's shells? Better be careful. Shucking is a skill that comes from a lot of years and oysters and cuts.
A lot of places have good oysters. Ours coming from local bays are really good. The best oysters I have ever eaten came from Willipa Bay in Washington state. The water there is the highest quality and the cold Pacific water makes them great oysters. You can eat them twelve months of the year. We go for the "R" months down here. Just remember, when you gulp that raw oyster or eat it fried you are eating the entire animal. All of him except the shell and the lining. Indians discovered these delicious treats long ago. They are nutritionally balanced with protein, carbs and lipids. Enjoy!