As this unbearably hot, dry summer comes to a close, I wanted to share one of my favorite moments from earlier in the season, my mother’s 90th birthday. Jean Heiss Donegan, above, was born on June 6, 1922, which she notes is “D-Day.” Whether that’s simply a reminder that she was born on a day that would become important in America’s history, or that she is a force to be reckoned with, was left to our imaginations. My dad died ten years ago, and she stepped into her role as “head of household” rather seamlessly, which she is quick to point out is due to her German ancestry.
The party took place at our house and everyone who could make it in for the occasion assisted with preparations. Unfortunately two of my five siblings could not be here, nor could many of the large number of nieces, nephews and great-grandchildren who live out of town. In the photo above taken from our neighbors’ deck, my sister Bobbie Wilson and brother-in-law Tony Delf are shown with my mother, sitting right. Jim and I spent the day cleaning up the garden and setting up the tables and chairs, which we learned later kept our neighbors thoroughly amused.
My mother requested lobster for her birthday dinner, which is why we are wearing an assortment of bandannas as bibs, above. The lobsters came from Bob’s Seafood, 8660 Olive. I went back and forth trying to decide whether to cook them at home, or let Bob’s partially cook them and then reheat them in the oven. Fearing they would dry out this way, but knowing how squeamish some of my family members would be watching us plunge live lobsters into boiling water, I decided to let Bob’s pre-cook them. Other than the difficulty of fitting umpteen lobsters in the ovens (I have a double-oven), it was the right move. They were delicious and turned out perfectly.
My mother has thirteen great-grandchildren but to her enormous regret only one lives in St. Louis. That’s ever-cheerful Raleigh Delf, age 4, the son of my nephew Casey and his wife Lana. He had a few bites of lobster but was much happier splashing in the pool.
The dinner was so lovely and funny with lobster juice squirting everywhere and claws being passed to Melissa Donegan, my nephew Shaun’s wife. Melissa, a physical therapist, was the only one at our end of the table who could crack the shells open.
The absolutely stunning birthday cake, which was as delicious as it looks, came from Sugaree Baking Company in Dogtown. My mother says she’s a “child of the sea,” which is unusual because she was born in St. Louis and spent a large part of her early childhood living downtown in the Lennox Hotel, which my grandfather, Charles Heiss, built. She says it’s because she loves the ocean and could float on the waves forever. I wish my father could have been here to see her on her 90th birthday—beautiful as ever and, as usual, the life of the party.
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What a fabulous birthday party, Nicki! Ninety years young! Belated birthday wishes to your Mom. She must be very proud of the family that she raised with your father. I am sure your father was there in spirit. What a special memory for all of you.
Lots of love, Jill
This remembered celebration inspired a different sort of lobster fest at our house. Tonight was Dinner for four with our two best guy friends, one of whom cooks circles around just about anyone. Again, Bob’s Seafood did the honors. In deference to expected heat, I had them chilled. Ha ha, a cool, crystal clear evening prevailed. Always arguments in my kitchen over how to present. As the only New Englander surrounded by lake and river people, I have strong opinions. But tonight I chose to compromise. Maybe that way, I can be like Nicki’s mother, adored and admired by a large flock!
Happy Birthday Mrs. Donegan! Lucky you to have such a wonderful family…..and daughter!
Congratulations to Mrs. Donegan and the whole family! What a great occasion – and obviously well celebrated!
Beautiful – party, family and mother!
It was a lovely party. Your beautiful mother is really fortunate to have her sweet family and amazing daughters – all so devoted to her happiness. Your dad would have so, so very much to be proud of!
Your family is truly blessed, Nicki. What a wonderful celebration!!!!! And such a lovely table and setting.