Hog Island Oyster Co.
There are places on the planet that resonate with who we are. Once we find them, we go back again and again. Point Reyes is that place for me. My soul goes into withdrawals when I do not get a "reset" by spending a few days in this most amazing place.
After working my normal 11 hour shift, Jeff met me at work and we left for the Bay. Once the coastal breeze was in my hair, I completely forgot I had been awake for nearly 24 hours.
First stop, coffee and tea in Fairfax.
Fairfax is classic Marin County; part coastal, part elite, part hippy. The people watching is superb.
We drove out Hwy 1 past Marshall to Hog Island Oysters, drank a half bottle of Pinot Noir, ate some Cowgirl Creamery Blue Cheese with a day old baguette, while we waited for our first serving of oysters.
Okay, so if you like oysters... there is absolutley NOTHING that compares to enjoying them minutes from being pulled out of the bay. NOTHING!
They say that oysters are an aphrodiasiac... but who needs the sex after this!
(Jeff says he does.)
We murdered 3 dozen.... in this sitting. If we didn't feel so guilty we would have slurped down another 3 dozen.
Oysters are considered one of the most nutritionally well-balanced foods. They are extremely low in calories - one dozen oysters contains ONLY 110 calories. They are full of vitamins and possess the omega-3 fatty acids that are good for our skin, brain, and muscles.
Not that I need "healthy choice" as an excuse.
"Where Oysters Come From"
We wandered the streets of Point Reyes Station, browsing the little shops and the community garden.
We made it to our favorite home away from home and lounged for the remainder of the afternoon and evening.
Morning View from our Porch - Elephant Mountain
Deciding what to do is always a challenge. We rarely do the same thing twice. This trip we walked the Earthquake Trail, directly upon the San Andreas Fault. In 1906, Point Reyes Peninsula moved 20 feet in an instant. There are split fences that prove it.
We strolled the Limantour Spit... the world's most perfect beach!
We visited the bird observatory and got to watch while the Ornithologists weighed and measured the smallest full-size bird I have ever seen... smaller than a hummingbird, for sure. We learned that Point Reyes has the largest variety of birds in the nation, so if you are a "birder" it's the place to be.
We are not "birders".
We are "wanderers"...
After a day of nature, it was time to get our dinner on. We attempt to try different things each visit, but we NEVER miss Stellina's..... never ever. The food is to die for!
Our last day, we headed out to take in another new view... Drake's Bay with its stunning, white cliffs.
We were all alone....
This beach had less a human footprints and more beasts'. Besides this 200 lb male mountain lion, there were tracks from a mama and her cub, an elk, and a racoon.
Then we had to eat some more!
Fresh halibut ceviche, a cup of clam chowder and another 3 dozen oysters; 12 raw, 12 BBQ'd and 12 to-die-for- Oysters cooked with Charizo and Butter!!!!!
Like I said.... "Sex on the Half-shell!"
Then it was time to say our sad farewell....
but not too sad...
we brought 2 large jars of oysters home with us! I am going to attempt an oyster stew tonight!
Until next time...
Namaste,
C H E Z
Oh.... (sigh) so beautiful. So beautiful.
p/s: I love your photo! Love your hair!!!
Posted by: Agnes | October 07, 2010 at 04:24 PM
Love-
One of, if not THE BEST "getaway" trip we've had...... I'm constantly reminded why we are together, why we are married, why we are soul mates. We have a blast together; NOTHING CAN BRING US DOWN!!!
I could say, "great place, great food." "Stunning dress! Nice pearls." BUT, I think these few words sum it all up........ MY WIFE.
I love you,
Your Puppy.......
Posted by: Sinclr6 | October 07, 2010 at 09:07 PM
Oh my lawd! I am in oyster heaven right now just looking at all your wonderfully enjoyed goodness from the sea...and it's been far too long since I've had ceviche! How beautiful you look in your lovely green dress, too. Beautiful photos!
Peace & Love,
~Barb~
Posted by: Barb | October 08, 2010 at 07:29 AM
What a delightful time you had! Oysters are sure good for the soul, and everything in-between. I love them! Have you tried scallops? They are my next best thing. Your photographs are divine, and so are you in that dress. Keep shining and a very happy continuous creative every day. :)
Posted by: Ana Goncalves | October 08, 2010 at 01:44 PM