Saturday, August 28, 2010

Annual Clam Steam

At the end of summer, Mom's place puts on a clam steam for the residents and they can invite two guests.

My brother and I went up yesterday to participate. Last year, we didn't go because things were still new and we didn't know any of the other residents or the staff. Now it seems we know everyone, including some of the other families, so we're social butterflies!

We drove up and parked in the lot visible from the outdoor tent they'd had constructed for the event. When we got out of the car, Mom recognized us immediately and waved. As we approached, she pointed to the car, knowing it was her little red car.

The weather was a bit problematic for the older folks. It was beautiful and the sky was full of large fluffy clouds. Unfortunately, when the sun was out it was too hot. When the clouds moved in the way, it was too cold. Mom is very sensitive to temperature so this constant changing from hot to cold made her antsy. She kept getting up, not knowing where she was going, but knowing she didn't want to sit at the table anymore. We tried to keep her jacket on/off but that wasn't working.

They started by serving Manhattan clam chowder, followed by steamed clams (I had two dozen!), then the main meal of boneless chicken breast, ribs, corn on the cob, and potato salad. Dessert was a slice of watermelon or cantaloupe. Mom ate some of the Chex mix before dinner but didn't touch a bite of anything else. Usually she cleans her plate.

There was entertainment, too. A guy played the banjo and guitar, and sang classics like "King of the Road" which I sang along to Mother Dear.

Everyone commented again that my brother and I look like twins. Of course, him being 10 years older, he enjoys reinforcing this. I, on the other hand, make sure I remind everyone that I'm the younger brother.

It started at 11 and we walked Mom back to her room at 1. She laid down on the bed and was fast asleep.

Turned out to be a good day.

4 comments:

Greg said...

Your Mom's Home sounds really excellent to arrange an affair like that.

I recognise the temperature sensitivity. My Mum's place keeps them all at such a temperature that I'm surprised they don't all split open like your clams. Consequently, even on the (rare) occasion of decent weather here in the North of England, it's impossible to get Mum outside without her complaining of the cold, even if I've swathed her in cardigans and coats. I'm pretty sure she's not going to see the outside of the place again at this rate.

p.s. I guess you knew to keep your car door locked this time, in case "The Dumper" struck!

Lacey said...

Hi. Catching up after quite awhile. Crashed computer, lost bookmarks, etc. This blog is funny, and sad, and just about everything in between.

Gavin said...

@Greg: Yes, we locked our doors, but the Dumper was no where to be seen. They would have needed someone just to watch her. I think her husband may have taken her out.

@Lacey: Glad to have you back. Hard drive crashes are the worst!

karen said...

Sounds like so much fun. You did have a good day. Everyone thinks my sis is my mom. I love it . She hates it. LOL!!!!