THE ROLE OF FOOD...
www.icenimagazine.co.uk
Issue 76 2019
You never know what you're going to encounter at buffets and canape events! And then there's the hazard of finger food, the juggling of a drink, a small plate, all whilst chatting or maybe wanting to greet someone or shake their hand! Let's not forget the food vigilantes who monitor what everyone eats. They know who's on a diet, who ought to be on a diet! Dare we eat anything too rich, or have a dessert! Dare we risk the raised eyebrows as we order a creamy pasta sauce or a sticky toffee pudding for dessert? And allergies! Hasn't almost everyone got special dietary requirements these days, ranging from food intolerances to extensive lists of what they will and won't eat? The diverse requirements of a bigger group often justify going out to eat and choosing somewhere with a comprehensive menu that accommodates everyone. Money can be another hot potato. The bill! Should it be divided equally between all the diners? But what about the people who hardly ate and those others who had several courses or expensive choices? Some people may have wanted to be sociable and join in, but can't afford to spend a lot. Should they subsidise the others? What about the wine drinkers and the non-drinking drivers? Is it a first date, and if so should the man pay, or could that cause discomfort or embarrassment? Having said this, social eating is a great way to relax and reconnect with old friends and make new ones. Taking time over a meal is
Taking time over a meal is fun and one of the loveliest ways to spend an easy afternoon or evening fun and one of the loveliest ways to spend an easy afternoon or evening. Many restaurants now cater for family parties and it's a joy to see several generations sitting together over Sunday lunch, chatting and taking their time. Home entertaining can be an easy way to share time together, especially if several people have young children and don't want the potential stress of dining out. One suggestion can be that everyone contributes a dish, so spreading the load in terms of cost and effort. Barbecues and picnics can come into their own too over the summer months and are a fun alfresco way of enjoying food and a social life. Safari suppers are also a good idea, where residents in a street or community plan to have one course at each house and then journey on to the next over an evening. Introduce a theme and you can end with an unexpectedly fun time! We all have to eat so let's make the most of these opportunities to really relish the role of food in our social life.
Article By Susan Leigh Susan Leigh, Altrincham Counsellor and Hypnotherapist, has published her third book, 101 Days of Inspiration #tipoftheday (ISBN 9781910275160) based on her social media series. A glossy, pocket-sized book, it's full of inspirational quotes & pictures, a treat to give or simply keep for yourself. For more information visit: www.lifestyletherapy.net PAGE
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