Comfort

Potlucks are my very favourite way to enjoy fellowship.  The hostess doesn't have the stress of making a big meal.  The guests feel they are contributing in a meaningful way.  The meal is casual and relaxed.  Everyone can try new tastes or stick with comfort food.

This weekend we had a potluck with a group of friends.  The food and company were wonderful.  There was a new family there, which got everybody asking questions and sharing stories afresh.

The very best part of the gathering for the kids was the critters.  Our hosts have 5 dogs, 4 cats, and 3 fish.  Almost a zoo!  Heaven for the Sprouts.

Now you would think that a house with that many critter family members would be chaotic and a bit odorous.  Au contraire!

The fish are obviously very quiet and stay put in their tank.  They are very soothing to sit and watch while adults get all excited about the assorted food being brought in and moms swap recipes.

Only one of the cats deigned to grace us with his presence, and he thinks he is a dog.

The dogs started the evening outside and were brought in slowly on or two at a time to allow them to get used to all the guests and settle down.  By the time we had all been there for an hour they were sprawled out on the living room floor or cosy with kids.  When the hosts moved from one room to another all five dogs heads were up to see where everyone important was going.

We went home to greet our pup and I was absolutely convinced that she needs company.  Not a pack of four more, but one more for sure.