Every year Alex’s family orders oysters from Island Creek Oysters for his grandfather, Oso. He’s a tough guy to shop for, but he does love his oysters. This year they got him The Damn Yankee sampler pack, and there was a shucking party in the kitchen on Christmas Day in MA. Alex was one of two shuckers. I wasn’t in the room when Alex was at work, but he made sure that I got one of each kind. They were impeccably fresh, firm yet tender, sweet, salty, and utterly delicious. Whenever I eat great raw oysters, I feel brighter and more alert. A platter of oysters accompanied by some really good French fries is my idea of a great meal. Add one of my favorite California Chardonnays and an entertaining companion, and I might never leave the table. Our New Year’s resolution is to eat more oysters. Seek out the best, savor them, and share.