February was a big food month for me. To combat the winter doldrums, I took a trip to the “Crystal Coast,” as beach promoters label Emerald Isle. On a foggy, drizzling weekend, there wasn’t a lot to do there—except eat.
So eat I did. On the way Friday night, my husband and I stopped at our favorite restaurant in Kinston, the midway point in our journey to the coast. King’s Restaurant is known for its barbecue, which I can vouch is excellent, but on Friday night, it’s the fried trout special for me. Three large pieces of fish with two sides, Brunswick stew and slaw. Iced tea and hushpuppies. All for the grand price of $7.99.
Saturday night, we ate at T & W Oyster Bar close to Cape Carteret. Nothing better in a winter “R” month than to saddle up to an oyster bar and let someone shuck you a half-peck, steamed medium. 
Sunday, I was back to fried foods. The no-frills Bogue House near Swansboro serves great fried chicken. I threw sensible eating out the window as I consumed a generous portion of white meat along with mac and cheese, collards, and hushpuppies with a hint of onion in the batter.
To read more about my food adventure in eastern North Carolina, click here:
The end of February found me at the southernmost town in the continental United States—Key West. My husband and I celebrated our 41st wedding anniversary with a trip that allowed me to eat conch fritters and some of the best key lime pie in the world.
I’d been advised to treat myself to a slice of key lime pie on a stick, encased in a thick coat of dark chocolate. If you get the chance, try it. You’ll feel sick afterwards for indulging in this divine concoction, but it’s an experience not to be missed. 
Later, when you come to your senses, you can have a piece of regular Key lime pie.
It’s March now, I’m home, and back to salads and no desserts. But I don’t regret my February eating exploits. After all, everything in moderation, including moderation.
Patsy Pridgen 