It's About Time for a Lobster Bake

Lobstah  8"x8" oil on canvas panel

In June, in our neighborhood in Maine, we have a lobster bake. It's a tradition that everyone loves. Sometimes there are extra lobsters, and people take them home. One year I did that and rearranged my take-home-lobster on a plate in a few different ways so that I could paint him.

With Pie  8"x8" oil on canvas panel

The way the lobsters are cooked has changed over time. Traditionally, they were baked over a fire in a nest of rock weed, which is the seaweed you see uncovered at low tide. Eggs were placed in the nest with the lobster, and used as thermometers. When the eggs were done, the lobsters were done. There are always clams as well, but they didn't make it home to be in the paintings!

Dinnah  8"x8" oil on canvas panel

In addition to the lobsters, clams, and eggs, everyone brings something. We start out with delicious appetizers. I almost always bring deviled eggs, which don't last long. Another favorite is a sort of chili rellenos bake that is cut into squares. It's totally yummy. And there's a seafood cheese dip that's very popular. If you're not careful, you won't have room for the lobsters. Oh, I almost forgot, for those who aren't crustacean fans, there are burgers and hot dogs.

Blueberry Pie  8"x8" oil on canvas panel

And finally there's dessert.  Pies of many kinds, always brownies, cookies, watermelon, and fruit salad. I know I'm forgetting something.

I wish I could invite you to join us...