I like pie.

I like pie! I mean, I REALLY like pie. I even have a shirt that says "I like pie." That's how much I like it. I love to celebrate Pie Day. I'm not talking about Pi day. I don't like Pi and I don't want to celebrate that day. National Pie Day is January 23. 1/23. It's as easy as 1,2,3...get it? Easy as pie.

The year I turned 40, I decided to try out 40 different pies before I turned 40. It was such a fun experience. It took me all over the United States. I had pie in Missouri, California, Pennsylvania, and Utah. My absolute favorite from that experience was Shoo-fly pie from the Amish Country in Pennsylvania. Amazing pie. I recommend it to everyone.

Yesterday, I turned 44. Not a big milestone but, in one year I will be 45! That is a HUGE milestone to me. That means if I live to be 90, I will be half-way there. Or if I live to 80, I'm already over half-way. It gave me pause to reflect and I decided it was time to get serious about life. I'm ready to try new pie!

So, here I start again. 45 different pies before I turn 45.

Zane and I were in New Orleans over the weekend to celebrate my birthday and I kicked off my new quest. It is going to be difficult to top because this was AMAZING pie. We went to Emeril's and tried his original and famous banana cream pie...oh...my...goodness...it was heaven! I couldn't resist waiting for that first bite and I apologize to our server for stabbing him with my fork. Seriously, how long does it really take to put a plate of pie on the table? He was taking forever! It was worth the wait...and the injury to the waiter. DEE-VINE!!

Pie #1 (Banana Cream pie- Emeril's New Orleans)

The next day we took a trek out to the Oak Alley Plantation about 1 hour west of New Orleans. We had lunch in their cute restaurant (I recommend the Gumbo). For dessert, they brought out a delicious piece of Buttermilk pie. Oh...the memories of cutting into that crusty cinnamon topping and savoring the creamy, delicious flavor. I ate this one too fast to get a picture but it definitely made my list.

Pie #2 (Buttermilk Pie- Oak Alley Plantation, New Orleans)

So two down, 43 to go. I am up for recommendations and I will travel for pie. My only rule: I don't count Marie Callendar's pies. Not because they aren't delicious but I could easily knock out most my list in one sitting. I am looking for the local, unique, award-winning pies of the country. Send your recommendations my way...

Next year...I'll join a gym. :)