Well, it could be argued that Island strawberries are the sweetest to be found, but maybe they are further sweetened when old friends, family, neighbours, and folks home from away come together to enjoy them at what can be the most beautiful time of year in Prince Edward Island. Yes, we are indeed in need of rain, and we hope that it comes soon for our farmers, but last evening was a spectacular one with a deep blue sky and dry hot air with the slightest of breezes which made the coolness of ice cream and strawberries most refreshing.
Sally Ross who sold tickets at the front door tells me they hosted 110 people, and looking around the room, one could see there were all ages represented. When I walked into the kitchen, it was a pleasant surprise to see Emily Bryant had sneaked back to Clyde River to help out. Carla MacDonald and Carol Richards were busy scooping servings of ice-cream and topping them with crushed strawberries. Ethel MacQuarrie and Sharon MacLean were joking about how the hairnets they were required to wear in the kitchen made them feel like their grandmothers. They were filling plates with sweets along with Melanie and Ella Wood. Kerrilee York, Judy Halman, Audrey MacPhee, Sarah Watts, Emily, Erica and Ellen Ross were among those serving tables. Betty Watts and Sadie MacLean were assisting. Lisa Ross was very busy providing hot and cool beverages. Helen MacPhail prepared tea. Jo-Ann MacPhail was in charge of the dishwasher. Ferne Halman directed people to their tables. It is this kind of stellar teamwork among Women’s Institute members that makes these events such a success. As for the rest of us, we are happy to return each year to enjoy this delicious occasion.
And don’t forget Erica Ross who has been helping every year for the past decade. She’s so confident she can do any task ! Watch out Toronto; you are soon to take on one powerful presence when Erica goes there to attend university to obtain a degree in speech pathology..
Thanks, Erica’s name is added.