Adventures in Providing Meals

It is no secret that I grew up in the deep South.  A place where ladies throw parties and are always cooking up something good.  When someone has a baby/ death in the family/ illness/ etc, the sign up lists come out at church, and school, soccer practice and any other activity that the family is involved in so that her friends can help.  Providing meals is a not only a way to help the family, but let's face it...it's also a time when you can show off your culinary or lack of culinary skills.  For me I like to create new "experiments," so just be warned if you receive a meal from you I probably have never made it before and am using your family as my guinea pig!!

One thing I have noticed is that down in the South they have the diving up of providing meals down to a science.  In Rochester where the culture is a little different, everyone still wants to provide a meal, however the organizing of the meals to the family is not really done.  This makes me a little crazy mainly because I am such a planner.  I totally get why, I think.  Planning means intruding on the family and not allowing them the freedom to pick and choose the days they eat said meals.  Plus having a sign up sheet shows which friends did and did not provide a meal thus putting pressure on those who may not feel comfortable with providing a meal.  I think this is the reasoning behind it, well, that is how it was explained to this clueless Southern girl. 

Upon moving back to North Carolina, I was introduced to the most awesome site ever.  It is called Meal Train. On this site you can set it up with all the information and it is pretty much like a virtual calender.  I myself like having a calender as they receiver.  That was I know who is coming when and if I need to change the date or need them to come earlier or later in the day I know who to contact, thus not having surprises.  On the other hand, I really like it as the donater too.  I like being able to see what everyone else is taking so that I don't repeat meals.  I also like knowing who is taking meals so that is there is an emergency and I am unable to fulfil my day, I can try to switch thus ensuring that a meal is still provided.

I encourage you to jump on the "meal train," the next time someone you know needs a helping hand.  The site is super user friendly and I promise you the family you assist will be most appreciative!