This weekend was really lovely. My sister Deborah and her best friend Leigh were visiting from New Jersey, so we decided to take them on a real adventure: the Berryville town yard sale. The weather was perfect…lots of sun but not too hot. What a fun time we had…and we all found so many treasures! My favorite purchase is this tiny set of mounted antlers. The seller said they were European…there’s some German written on the backside, but I can’t make it out.

On Saturday evening, we all drove back out to Berryville to one of the most scenic areas of VA (actually located on a monastery) for a Spring potluck and bbq. Melissa, who grew up in Berryville and whose father farms this land, brought together a fun bunch of friends – old and new – and we chatted the evening away, all while taking in the 100+ year old farmhouse and 1,100 acre farm. I brought my signature dish: a big Caesar salad and Leigh helped me put together an quinoa salad. Laicie baked us some of the tastiest pies we’ve ever had. Why is rhubarb pie so darn good?

The potluck was a wonderful time, and it reminded me why I love gathering together with friends and family over a shared meal. When people – even total strangers – are united around a table, sitting intimately close, and breaking bread together, there is so much opportunity for fellowship and good conversation and friendship. If we hadn’t needed to get our little Zoe home to bed, we would’ve lingered for hours and hours, roasting marshmallows around the bonfire and simply enjoying each others company. Next time, friends!