Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really free? Is this some kind of sales seminar or other recruitment? Yes, it is free, no, it is not a sales pitch. The only message is that I hope by the end participants appreciate how important the dinner table is to our culture, identity and health. This is taught not by lecture but by participating.
Can I host a social potluck dinner of my own? Absolutely!
I can't think of a story to tell, should I not sign up? By all means SIGN UP! Nobody can think of a story when asked point blank. Ask the people you know if there are certain stories you tell a lot, or find touching. Ask your friends what they would tell, that might give you ideas. Think of scary or beautiful moments in your life. If you still can't think of any and you are signed up come anyway. I guarantee that after listening to other people tell their stories that it will remind you of a story (I've been to lots of storytelling circles and it is always the people who say they don't have any stories who come up with the best material). Also, you can tell any kind of story. If you have completely drawn a blank, tell Little Red Riding Hood. It doesn't matter.
I'm not a good storyteller but I want to come anyway. Can I? This isn't a competition, you are not being judged on content or performance. Leave that for "Are You a Storyteller?" Everyone is in the same boat.
Who is catering the dinner? I am. I'm cooking everything for the meal from scratch. It is my way of thanking you for taking the time to participate.
Are you a trained chef? No, cooking is not my profession though it seems like I spend most of my time in the kitchen. I love cooking, it is my hobby and what I have been doing for my family for the past fourteen years. While not trained officially my mother is a trained chef and I have worked in numerous professional kitchens. I do have my Food Safe certificate so you are safe with me. Dinner will be good home cooking with a few fancy touches but nothing crazy.
I have food allergies or foods I cannot eat. How flexible is the menu? Please let me know immediately in your email if there are food concerns as I can't do last minute changes but I can prepare ahead of time. I know how serious allergies can be. There will be options for vegetarians and omnivores but remember that I am cooking as though you are coming to my house so a little flexibility might be needed.
