Beer Stein - A glass mug from which one would drink beer.

German Beer Stein - Heavy, one liter glass mug capable of being used effectively as a blugdeoning weapon, from which one would drink real beer.

For the low, low cost of only 7 tickets (on a $1.00 per ticket exchange system), I am, since Friday, the proud owner of a German Beer Stein. The Crescent Moon/Huber Haus Oktoberfest occured here in Omaha over the weekend and a great time was had by all. Well, at least by me.

While many beers were offered, I contented myself going back and forth between the Warsteiner (VAR-stine-uhr) Oktoberfest and the Spaten (SPAHtun) Oktoberfest. Both were thick, foamy, dense German brews, absolutely befitting an Oktoberfest.

Now, knowing that I had a ride there and a ride home, I suppose I should preface this by saying that I started early. Before heading out, I partook of a friend's Dalmore Cigar Malt, and must say, I was very pleased. The soft, sweet flavor, passed to a very smooth finish that left me quite surprised. Excellent single malt.

Now, back to Oktoberfest.

For those of you (most of you) who have never seen me with a good amount of alcohol in me...well, I become considerably more gregarious than normal. Which is saying a lot.

I start loud, amusing conversations with everyone. I hand out advice, answer questions and just general act the part of a happy, life of the party, drunk. Oh, and I flirt a lot. *shrugs*

Did I mention that it was a ONE LITER mug? And I started with two double draws of Scotch? It was a good evening.

Of course, what Oktoberfest (or whatgregeats blog) would be complete without mentioning food?

Classic combination is brats and kraut. Only, Kraut is on the VERY short list of foods I won't eat. As a child my dad convinced me it was rotten cabbage, and I just can't get over that childhood conditioning. I think my U.S. Navy experience of being submerged headfirst in a 40 gallon vat of Sauerkraut so I could unclog the drain by hand doesn't help either. Go figure.

Regardless, I don't do Sauerkraut.

Bratwurst though...now you're talking. Grilled up, with crispy skin on soft rolls with spicy brown mustard. Heavenly. Chased that with a ham & cheese sandwich on a pretzel roll...just dripping melted cheese.

Finished with Apple Streudel dowsed in Whipped Cream (because the more beer you have, the more whip cream you crave...it's true).

In the end, my back hurt, my feet hurt, I couldn't talk anymore...and I'd had a truly great night.

While it was never necessary to bludgeon anyone unto unconsciousness with my German Beer Stein, I was happy to be equipped for the task. It is now sitting at home in case it becomes necessary to use it for home defense or consumption.

If there is anything the world has a shortage of, it's holidays that involve overindulging in Food & Drink for purely festive reasons. Ever culture has some, every culture needs more.