My favourite thing about spring is seeing people I haven't run into for a while.
Our neighbourhood is alive with children out playing and riding bikes, people out walking with friends, family members and pets and it seems everyone has a smile on their faces.
Even after a mild winter, spring still has its glory. Last week our community got together to show support to a couple who dedicates their time to volunteering. They lost their shop, tools and truck to a fire in March.
The potluck supper held in their honour was a celebration of community spirit. Several young families, middle-aged couples and seniors gathered to show their appreciation and support. The hall was filled with guests and food.
I was tempted by the dessert tables to skip waiting in line for the main courses. The desserts were amazing, but the selection of hot dishes and salads were well worth the wait.
I love potluck meals. I know some people who don't like to eat anything if they don't know who prepared it, but I am always delighted by the opportunity to taste the food others have prepared.
I know people who attend a special function want to bring their very best dishes. I often bring home some leftovers, because I like to experiment with foods that can seem a little bit exotic while people fill their plates with known favourites.
There are times when I do wish I knew who made everything so I would know who to approach for the recipes.
There are annual and seasonal events throughout the region I attend looking forward to the familiar dishes. Desserts and soups are some of my favourites, a little varied in different parts of the province influenced by the cultural make up of the regions.
There are several dishes I had never tasted until I moved to this community and although my dishes may seem odd to others it was a tasty risk I took the first time I tried some of the things I hadn't seen before.
I'm looking forward to the Easter holidays when we'll enjoy several family dinners. They are no longer prepared by one person or a small group of woman slaving in the kitchen.We havepotluck dinners where everyone does a little bit of work so everyone can enjoy time to visit and the special old and new dishes that are part of our family tradition.
I can't wait to taste the food but I'm even more excited to see the faces I haven't seen in a while.
