MMMMMM.. Pot Luck :-D

What's not to love about a potluck dinner?
Though a seemingly suburban notion that would have origins in a church basement somewhere in rural Kansas, the concept of communal suppers in which guests contribute their own dishes is documented as early as 16th century England. In Ireland, the term "luck-of-the-pot" referred to groups of farm women who would contribute a vegetable or meat towards one large cast iron kettle. Therefore the meal would be comprised of whatever the garden or pasture offered that day.
The "Pitch-in" was a popular meal plan among the Victorians, particularly in the western states, in which picnic hampers were filled for families to share. Later in the 20th century, potluck dinners came to be known as covered dish suppers, faith suppers, "Jacob's Join", carry-ins, and bring-a-plates. General rules applied with an understanding that families would provide enough to feed and water their own broods. Cutlery, cups and plates were a hodge-podge of mismatched patterns and prints.
As a youngster, I recall my grandfather's company picnics at which long tables were abundant with twenty variations on a brownie or fried chicken. One could bet that there would always be paprika sprinkled deviled eggs, and marshmallow fruit salad with coconut and cherries.
The industrious womenfolk would strategically arrange the dishes in order of theme upon nostalgic print cloths-always saving the best for the end of the line. Scratch cakes and fruit pies were nestled amongst snickerdoodles and lavish cupcakes as a reward for finishing off the meatloaf and scalloped potatoes.
This wholesome occasion afforded every woman an opportunity to flaunt her culinary prowess. Signature family favorites handed down over decades sprung to life from butter stained recipe cards, now harbored within Corningware and Pyrex.
By the end of the evening, penciled formulas for the best casseroles were penciled upon the backs of checkbooks, receipts, and napkins and tucked into purses for the next anticipated smorgasboard.
May your next meal or gathering ensure pleasant memories and happy taste buds.