a series of ease, and a half cup of effort…

“My goal for this menu was to find recipes that supported ease and effortlessness. I have learned over the years that if I could create a meal with ease and effortlessness, I was more likely to invite people over spontaneously.

Spontaneity creates a tendency to act which I believe in time will equate to boundless hospitality. Hospitality is not having a large house or a beautifully set table and by no means having it all together. That actually will come with time by putting in the repetition by saying yes to having a neighbor over for coffee when there is unfolded laundry on the couch, yes to having friends over for lunch when the floors are not moped, yes to trying something new like a coursed dinner party and definitely yes to potlucks.

I would like to invite you for dinner in the Family Room at The Open door. This will be an evening  to sit, sip and eat a meal together. I am looking forward to attending the dinner and sharing my love of food and hearing about your stories around the table.

Hope you can make it for dinner!”

–JULIA RICKARDS