So I made another batch of homemade orange ice cream. Yes, with nothing but the real ingredients, nothing at all artificial. Why? Well, we were having new neighbours over for a personally-distanced BBQ.
“Pull up a chair. Take a taste. Come join us. Life is so endlessly delicious.” — Ruth Reichl
I made my seafood paella which turned out the best it ever has been (the more I make it, the better it gets). A very simple appetizer beforehand. And, because one of the neighbours mentioned it was his birthday last week, I made my mom’s fudgy chocolate cake as a base for that outrageously lush ice cream.
I love cooking for others, whether family or friends. I firmly believe the best conversations occur over shared meals. There was so much chatter — and don’t forget these were new neighbours (yes, they had already had 3 weeks of isolation). We talked and talked and talked. Before they left, they insisted we get together again — very soon — for an afternoon tea perhaps. You know, with the works: scones, tea, finger sandwiches, sweets, et al. I offered to make the egg salad sandwiches (pressure’s on as they immediately said it’s a favourite) and contribute homemade strawberry jam for their scones. I’m already looking forward to our next outdoor gathering over tea.
They were so grateful — for everything. Don’t you love when you make a dinner and, in return, everyone enjoys what you’ve done? I’d do it anyway, but it’s that much more exciting when people are obviously enjoying what you’ve done and show how much they appreciate your efforts.
As it turns out, I seldom even think to take photos of these items or the event. So we’ll suffice with some previously taken photos of similar items.
Oh, speaking of birthdays, through one of the lovely blogs I follow, I discovered this lovely story about someone else’s birthday that turned into one of the most heartwarming stories. I do hope you’ll check it out. You won’t be sorry you took the time to read her wee story.
So tell me, what is one of your most memorable dinners/shared meals/surprise meals/summer traditions/whatever? I’ll be waiting for your story …
what a delight to visit your kitchen. i can imagine the wonderful smells. your buns remind me of one of my grandmothers. i may go now and bake some of her yeast rolls.
My memorable shared food event this summer was when one of my dear friends had a socially distanced fire pit get together for five of us and we all roasted marshmallows for s’more’s over the fire. There was just something so special about doing that with friends I hadn’t seen in person in months.
Beautiful photographs to accompany what sounded like a very delicious get together with the new neighbors! Thanks for sharing that link about Skip’s.