I'm missing Little Rock today. This weekend marks the anniversary of a Labor Day weekend party known by 40 or 50 of my most intimate friends as "Lamb Jam." It began as a housewarming party for me, my college roommate, Z, and our friend, Baby Jane. As I recall the first one started on Thursday evening and ended sometime late on Monday. Jobs, kids, and other commitments have impacted the party along the way. But once a year we all managed to get together on Saturday evening for a meal of lamb and fixin's. The party waned for a few years in the mid 90s. I prefer to think of it as, we had satellite parties at a few different locations rather than one big blowout. Of course, part of the party is free-flowing libations thus leading to some memorable moments.
I guess most of all this year I'm missing Michael. His loss means we can never have the whole gang back together again. So, with nods to Michael here is one of my favorite Lamb Jam conversations:
400 Pine Street, LR, Saturday of Labor Day weekend 1983
Police Officer: Sir, is everything all right here?
Michael: I'm standin' on my front porch, (pause) drinkin' my beer, with my friends (looks to left, looks to right) yessir, everything's all right.
Police Officer: Well, son, do you think you can take your friends and your stereo speakers back inside and tone it down a little?
Michael: Yessir I believe I can.
So to all of my Lamb Jam crew. I'm going to the liquor cabinet to get the Southern Comfort and the Amaretto, and I'm toasting you all with a big kiss. I love you all. Happy Labor Day!
