Goodbye Coeur d' Alene

Yes, this is finally the last post on our trip to Coeur d' Alene. I was holding the camera most of the time, so this is proof I was there. (and proof I was being lazy and waiting like a baby bird for yummy scraps off the smokers :)

Sunday was the last day of the competition and when every thing happened. The turn ins, the judging, the eating. Oh, the eating. The yummy food started early when the team made all of us spectators breakfast. Which consisted of tri-tip, eggs, peppers, and fresh out of the smoker biscuits. I didn't think I would like it, but I ended up loving it.

The food just kept getting better from there. The great thing about hanging around a BBQ cook off is that there is always food around to taste test. And when the turn ins started happening, there was plenty to choose from.

The first turn in of the day was pork. (my favorite category) I am not kidding when I say, that I have NEVER tried any better pulled pork. It was amazing. Awemazing.

Next came brisket. It didn't disappoint. So good. And Bob's brother made burnt ends to go with it, that were sent from heaven. He put some sort of berry glaze on, that I think I could have bathed in.

Next was chicken and then they finished up with ribs. I don't remember the last time I have seen so much meat!

I never knew so much went into these competitions. From the prep, all the way up to the garnishes, it's pretty intense. And surprisingly fun to witness. It was also pretty interesting to see that the team's diets all consisted of meat, and liquid caffeinated stimulants. I'm pretty sure they all got about ten hours of sleep over the three days, but they had fun, so I guess that's all that matters.

This was only the team's second official competition and I have to say they did stellar. They placed 9th out of 29 teams, and won sixth place for their chicken, and best in show for their booth. Not too shabby. I think the best part about it though, is that it's a family thing.

I can't say thank you enough to Dave and Susan who did so much for the whole thing. And who flew us out there. They always do a great job of making things fun. Thank you guys SO much.

Well did you feel like you were there? Cause I think I posted a million pictures of the trip! I promise I'm finished :) Well have a good Tuesday, I'll be back in the next day or so with our adventures from the 4th.