The Santa Barbara Crab

While visiting in California, dh and I retreated for a few days to celebrate our wedding anniversary. We went to Santa Barbara and left the children to spend some time with grandma and grandad.

We really enjoyed spending time at the Santa Barbara Pier. We went there both days we were in Santa Barbara. One evening we ate at a little crab shack at the farthest end of the pier. It was a rather small and informal place but the sunset was breathtaking and the atmosphere so relaxing. Did I mention that the food was exceptional? It was the hands down, the best seafood I have ever eaten! They served local caught crab. Dh and I split this 3# Rock Crab. It was plenty for both of us.

They had huge tanks of these guys, alive! I was amazed!


Here is our meal right before it was cooked, amazing!

We saved the shell and brought it back to the apartment where we were staying. I boiled this all night because I wanted to take it home smelling a bit better than it did previously. Isn't it beautiful. I really think it is a nice color.

Here is the underside. The children discovered that he has a built in happy face.

Do you see it?

I am sure you can see it now. I wonder if all crabs have this smiling face on their underside?

His cute little smile reminds me to always have a HAPPY FACE and never be a CRAB!

Blessings to you for a very happy face day. Don't let crabiness steel your happiness. Suzie