When the invite showed up to join a Facebook group called Cooking and Coping, Gathering Around The Virtual Table, I didn't hesitate to get on board. 

The group was the brainchild of the hosts of a weekly radio show on Mississippi Public Radio called Deep South Dining, Carol Puckett and Malcolm White. I've known Carol since my days living in Memphis, Tenn., and when she asked me to invite friends from the Northwest to join the group, it seemed like a wonderful opportunity for the best kind of cross cultural pollination. 

It's been a real joy to watch new friends and old interacting, sharing photos of their meals. The images and stories are tasty, from the golden grilled cheese to the biscuits and eggs Benedict. The appearance of a beautiful Dutch Baby spawned a storm of baking of this puffy pancake. 

The virtual conversations have been a joyous diversion from you-know-what, and being a member of this food-centric community certainly inspired me to up my game. Recent dinner posts that have gotten lots of "likes" include homemade ramen, Thai curry salmon, Memphis BBQ pizza and a cheesy lasagna. 

Wanna join us? Hit me up at goingmobile@spokesman.com and I'll get you connected.

 

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