Oysterfest
A few years ago, a late-night patio hang led to the discovery that a dear friend was skilled in shucking oysters. He had all the fancy tools and everything. Every year, when the weather shifts and my friend Kelly and I get that hankering for oysters and champagne, we usually plan to head to a restaurant nearby. But this news inspired what would soon become one of my favorite days of the year: Oysterfest.
Each year gets better, but the basic premise includes lots of bubbles and fresh oysters shucked right at home. There is always cheese and crackers and other easy bites. We have added a big pot of gumbo to the mix for a proper dinner to pair with lots of drinking. And we finally caved in last year and added a delicious mignonette sauce! The real magic is in the gathering and growing of the group. The charm is spending a crisp Fall day before the holiday rush sets in, slowing down, and enjoying time outside. It is the balance of being a little fancy in the backyard with friends you don't usually have to be fancy with.
