Spread The Love Potluck

It is really easy to get caught up with what is next in our lives; what movie we want to see, what vacation to plan, what the next five years will look like, etc. But, we are missing the most important part… we are forgetting to think about what is right in front of us, right now!

I will be the first to admit that I am guilty of moving through life at lightening speed and not stopping to cherish the now. Feeling like I needed to cherish the 'now,' I invited some friends over for a 'Spread the Love Potluck.' The premise of this potluck was that there were no sign up sheets for food and no categories in which you needed to bring a certain dish. You only had to bring the dish or drink you absolutely love; so others could join in and enjoy something you love, as well. It turned out great! The most surprising dish(es), to me, was that two people brought pies! It was a total indulgence for the both of them. The party set the mood that allowed everyone to enjoy themselves while eating something that someone else loved. There was thought behind the dishes; not just a random purchase because they were assigned a dish in a category.
My contribution to the party was an oven baked, cheese quesadilla that you ate as a child - or, at least, I did.. Straight up cheddar cheese and flour tortillas, folded up and heated up in the oven. Very simple. They went so quickly! Everyone remarked,“this reminds me of childhood!” 'It was awesome! I also bought some of my favorite snacks; hummus, pita chips, cheese fix munchies, Juanita tortilla chips (only the best!), salsa and guacamole - so good and total indulgences!
I knew I wanted to make a cocktail for the evening as well, so, I went with my all time classic… Vodka soda with muddled lime, lemon and orange. This drink is hands down my go-to, can-never-fail drink. However, I am always too chicken to order it the way I like it, when I am out at a bar or restaurant. I always feel bad, asking for three kinds of fruit… and then asking them to muddle it. So, I decided to buy a ton of fruit, soda water and vodka and make drinks for everyone with it throughout the night… without any hassle on their part! It was fun and everyone enjoyed the drink!
The night turned out perfectly. I got to catch up with friends, people became friends, everyone bonded and it really forced me to slow down and be in the moment and truly feel grateful for the people I have in my life. I really encourage you to do the same. Heck, throw a 'Spread the Love Potluck' and let me know how it went! If you want to make my all time Classic Triple Muddled Vodka Soda Cocktail, here is the recipe: