As far as year's go, I'd say this one's starting off on the right foot. We spent the first few weekends traveling both for the book and for fun and I've managed to meet a number of die-hard oyster lovers along the way.

My trip to Houston brought me to some of the nicest, most voracious oyster fans I've ever encountered. Brasserie 19 hosted an oyster and wine tasting set for 4 pm on a Friday and sure enough, the place was packed to the gills and completely sold out at over 160 people. The entire crowd was into it, slurping back our selection of East and West coast oysters with genuine excitement for what was on the plate. My Dad, who played manager/bodyguard for the night, got a few pictures but mostly, we just enjoyed chatting up the crowd and spreading oyster cheer.

The following day, Hubbell & Hudson, a fantastic gourmet market in The Woodlands (with its own walk-thru beer cave and on-site cooking school) hosted me for a signing which drew a decidedly different oyster crowd: the kind who enjoy them at home. It was so refreshing to see so many folks who were comfortable with a shucking knife. Admittedly, before I worked for Island Creek, I don't think I would have braved shucking oysters at home on a regular basis...special occasions are one thing but these folks seemed to be bringing oysters home just because it was Saturday. It inspires me to get back into the habit.

We also got to see some of my family's Texas friends, as well as some of the extended ICO family: Shore's aunt, uncle and cousin. It's good to see these pockets of die-hard ICO fans spread throughout the country.

Here in Boston, I've been busy dining my way through oyster menus at spots like Harvest and La Morra. Next up, I'll be doing a signing at the Weston Library this week, followed by a dinner at STIR Boston next Wednesday, Feb. 1. Then it's on to Chicago, a class at Boston University, New York City... yes, it's turning out to be quite a year. For those keeping track, Charlie's now a pro at getting through airport security.

Will I see you on the trail? If not, you'll be able to get a glimpse of SHUCKED on the air a few times in February. My interview with The Splendid Table airs the week of February 18... but before that, our long-awaited appearance on Bizarre Foods will air Monday, February 13 (host Andrew Zimmern gave the book a little love this past fall). Tune in for a look at life on the farm... and hopefully I'll see you out on the road!

PS - Check it out: I made it onto a local bestseller list!

Erin Byers Murray