First BBQ Since August 2009!!!

Before I write about my first BBQ experience in too long of a time, I feel compelled to explain my personal BBQ philosophy. I Love BBQ and I want to try it all...simple enough huh? I understand their are purists in many forms when it comes to BBQ, there are some be swear by certain regions, some who loathe sauce and others who think it isn't BBQ unless it is smothered in sauce. You can also break the sauce group down into the different varieties of sauce. Of course, there are also those people that call throwing burgers and hot dogs on a grill BBQ'ing, but I will hold off on them till later. Anyway, what it comes down to is that I am a BBQ Opportunist. I do not seek to denigrate any purist in any way...they know what they like, as do I.

Moving on, for my first (and what turned out to be my only) BBQ experience while I was home on leave, I went to Rudy's - Loop 360 on Jan. 17th, 2010. I understand that not everyone is a fan of franchise BBQ. I will admit to even being pretty selective when it comes to the BBQ franchises, but I do enjoy me some Rudy's. Plus, it is convinient to my church and having a large group all dine together. On this day I had some lean brisket and pork spare ribs. After having gone so long without any BBQ, it was absolutely wonderful and I ate every last bit of it. And by the way, their sauce is pretty good too. I am suprised this was my only BBQ visit while I was home....guess I will have to make up for that when I am home for good.

First Beer In Forever

On January 16 I had my first beer since the end of August! For my first meal stateside, I went to Texas Roadhouse. Not exactly adventurous, but kind of a tradition back from my early active duty days. Wow...never thought I would be in uniform long enough to say that. Anyway, I picked one of my favorites, Shiner Bock, and it was wonderful. I'm a little disappointed they don't have it on draft there, after all, they have Texas in the name. I decided to stick with the Texas theme and go for a Lone Star, I know; not exactly high brow, but at the same time, it didn't disappoint.

I also had the hamburger there. I know most people don't think of getting a burger at a steak place, but they really do have one of the best. Thick and juicy and full of flavor. Also, as a homage to my friend Pete, a little brown gravy with my steak fries. All in all, I couldn't have asked for a better first meal.

This is long over do, but it will be the first of several posts chronicling my mini-adventure while I was home on leave.

For Christmas

A pretty good boss gave me one of these for Christmas....in two and a half weeks I can use it.

Beers To Look Forward To

Thanks to my Wonderful Wife and my Sometimes Okay Sister (just kidding Booger) I have a variety of Limited Releases awaiting for me when I get home next month.

First and foremost, one six-pack each of Saint Arnold's Divine Reserves #8 and #9. Everthing I have read about the two makes me even more anxious to get home and try them.


I also have a six-pack of Real Ale Coffee Porter waiting for me. This one I have actually had before, but I'm very excited that it is now bottled and I can enjoy it from the comfort of my own sofa.

The Adventure Begins....Sort Of

I have many interests in life, some occupying much more of my time than others. I decided to create this blog in order to chronicle my experiences with the three that interest me the most; Beer, BBQ and Burgers. I am by no means a subject matter expert on these; but I am constantly learning and always on the hunt for a new favorite. The primary goal of this Blog is to keep a record of my experiences with Beer, BBQ & Burgers and hopefully provide a little entertainment along the way.

The most difficult part at the moment, is the fact that I currently find myself in Iraq with about 6 more months before I will be home. Needless to say I will have much to look forward to when I get home. Till then...