The weather forecast said summer was over, but we went to the beach anyway because it was low tide. My parent's property on Hood Canal includes oyster and clam rights on a private beach. There is a saying around here that when the tide is low the table is set and that was true for us this weekend. The rain ceased just as the tide dropped and we sallied forth with buckets and rakes to gather our limits of bivalves. The oysters just sit on the sand waiting to be picked up but the clams need digging, or at least scratching. The mud is a little daunting on a minus tide and Mike almost had to leave his boots in it, but Brendan came to the rescue. We filled our buckets in short order and retired to the campfire to enjoy the bounty. Michele and Becca are fans of shellfish and led the dining charge. We ate a couple oysters raw (my favorite) and steamed many more over the fire. Melted butter, garlic and wine make a fine sauce. Summer lingered long enough for us to have a great family weekend.