Everyone is looking for ways to get together with those they love in safe and healthy ways during this pandemic. Most of us are reading a lot about what this means. A recent super spreader event in Maine provided more insight into this situation. For the most part, it seems like big groups of people sharing food and small spaces leads to viral spread. How can we avoid this?
Small, safe groups outdoors
We've been getting together with small groups of friends and family members in mostly outdoor settings. So far, so good. We've been conscious about our distance from one another at the gathering.
Individual Servings
Rather than sharing meals family style, we're sharing the food by individual or small group servings. For example, recently when I had two couples over--each couple received their dishes of food to share. That means rethinking how you prepare and serve the food with regard to the dishes you cook and serve the food in.
Leftovers
Generally I like to send home a meal with family members who visit and that means always cooking for double the number of guests attending the event.
Fortunately the summer has created the opportunity to eat outdoors a lot. As the fall arrives, we'll likely have to think more carefully about the people we visit with and invite to our homes in order to stay safe from the pandemic's grasp.
What's ahead?
Living during the pandemic has changed all of our lives. Most people continue to look for silver linings and the promise this problem holds. For me, silver linings include the opportunity to strengthen intimate relationships with friends and family members, adhere to healthier routines, get outside more, and cook better, healthy food.