Okay, so yesterday was one of several scheduled 'openings' by the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife for Razor Clamming along the Washington State coast. It afforded a perfect opportunity for some heartfelt 'Male Bonding' among some of the staff of ActiveRain.
Present was Yours Truly, Bob Stewart, Jonathan Washburn, my youngest son, Luke, and Sadie, the Wonder Dog.
We were 'Men-on-a-Mission' as we embarked from the warm confines of my trusty Expedition, heading out to brave the elements, in search of the ever-illusive Razor Clam.
It was quickly evident who the 'newbie' uninitiated were. Jon kept roaming around the beach, like a kid on his first Easter egg hunt. I suppose it would've helped for the more seasoned and experienced of us to actually 'show' him what to do, but we were much to busy digging clams!
While somewhat a slow starter, Bob came to life in the final quarter. His childhood memories of digging clams kicked in, and the evasive bounty was no match for the 'Stewart-Washburn' Clam Tag Team!
I think it's important to note the condition of each hunters clam bag as dusk quickly approached.


The ride back home was equally enjoyable. Luke started up several 'sports-related games, like starting with the number 1, and naming a player who has a jersey with that number. Jon and I were quickly eliminated, so we engaged in some great conversation. Later, Jon suggested a game where someone names a company, and then someone else has to name the CEO. The rest of us agreed that was a really boring idea.
As I think back on our day, there was a point when we were all standing there on the beach, the RAIN pouring down around us, and I thought "How appropriate!"
Ah, male bonding at its best!

Rich,
Does this make all you guys except Sadie official 'clam diggers'??? Thanks, Fran
Gracious Rich...
Y'all look cold and now I have a craving for fresh steamed clams. They make great cat food :)
TLW...ROAR!
I thought male bonding typically involved beer. :o)
I agree with Maureen, sounds a little cold to be on the beach, but fun male bonding just the same! When is the clam bake?
I remember razor clamming. . . I loved digging for clams! But the rain blowing sideways, stinging as it hit your face, being wet, cold and numb outweighed the fun part. And then cleaning the clams wasn't very fun either, but I loved the hunt~ What's your favorite way to cook 'em?
Glad you guys got away for the day. Gotta love Sadie the Wonder Dog. Luke looks like a fine boy.
Active Rain Ladies Spa Day sounds like a great idea! Faina, you are always thinking!
Nice to see that luke didn't have a football with him. And we are of course jealous that we weren't there.
darn it!
Rich,
I have never been claming. My buddies have talked about it a little while we go crabbing. I really can relate to the bonding, the fun, to think of something so simple as having fun while expending so much energy catching the clams and being able to enjoy the fruits of your labor almost immediately. Sounds like a great weekend.
aj
What a treat.
Geez. It's 19 degrees out here this am.
But, you inspired me. Instead of working ActiveRain, tomorrow I'm going to put fresh line on a couple of fishing reels. I'm getting ready. I'm getting ready.
Rich,
Thanks again my friend. I had a blast! Next time the Stewart-Washburn team is going to limit for sure. Jon and I decided we are driving next time so that we can stay until we reach our limit..........if that means we have to wait 12 hours for the next low tide, so be it :)
Yeah,
I'm blaming the inadequate footwear for not limiting!! (even though I was fine :) )
Rich I love claims!!!!!!!!!!!! Fried or Steamed it does not matter, I could eat them all day long and still not have enough ……… LOL
The godfather of AR? I missed that one, but commented on it via Maureen. Also made you blush today with Matt and Jonathan. Bob already heard it verbally. Still intend to do a post too. As soon as I can breathe from market reports.
best