A dinner party, coffee, tea,
Sandwich, or supper, all may be
In their way pleasant. But to me
Not one of these deserves the praise
That welcomer of new-born days,
A breakfast, merits;

The greatest gift that the past year has given me, was the knowledge that impressing was more of a happy compliment to things, and not an ultimate goal. What a comforting embrace that thought is; to know that at the end of the day, the most pleasant thing I can conjure up is a warmly lit table. Wrinkled linen and patinaed silverware included. One covered in what is nourishing for more than just eyes and palate alone.

The goal now, beyond garnishment and theatrics, is to make sure what I love most about this job grows. The warmth, the connection, fostered and cared for in ways that allow it to tendril itself lightly around the area I call home. To create a crackling record of that beautiful, tinkling track made of glasses and laughter in harmony. In finding recent inspiration through female chefs who are focused on a more homely and snug perspective of food, I have found myself searching for more ways to practice the same kind of cookery. There is a true heart beat behind the act of creating in order to give back.

An encompassing goal of mine for this year has been to find avenues for IN WHITES to give back to it’s immediate community. Williamsport has endless seeds of potential hibernating within it. Through collective imagination and support, I believe it can surpass any and all constraints in front of it. Slowly, deep roots are forming of rejuvenation; music, art, food, and more. All of the vital ingredients are already here, sprouting up and out from the surface.

In an effort to try and do what little part is mine, I decided to utilize a skill I have been blessed to have plenty of training in. That humble, non-braggadocios meal of waking up, and giving thanks. Breakfast. Not quite buttoned up enough for the dining room, but so very cheery, and plenty reason to gather around a table set with care.

ever giving
Cheerful notice we are living
Another day refreshed by sleep,
When its festival we keep.

Since the beginning of IN WHITES, I have dreamed of doing an event in the Pajama Factory. Wide open spaces, tall breezy windows, echoes of conversation and laughter, and the chance to bring so many people together. When I was approached by the Williamsport Community Kitchen, I could by no means turn down the opportunity.

Table to Community is a sweet and soft love note, from me to the area and people that have already given me so much support and aid. This journey of food I have taken so far has been a true adventure, with so much personal reward. It is a real treat, and honor, to have an event come about that allows me to bring it back around. Truly fitting for the month of February.

Sunday the 16th will be overflowing with little treasures I hold dear; vintage serving ware, still warm baked goods, local foods and ingredients, communal tables. A dream.

When in the breakfast-room we meet,
At the social table round,
Listening to the lively sound
Of those notes which never tire,
Of urn, or kettle on the fire.

If you find yourself wishing for sugared scone crusts, creamy and fluffy rounds of frittatas, the scent of griddle cakes freshly brought to a table, and the chance to say hello to neighbors, old and new friends, please join us for brunch.

Poem excerpts from Breakfast, by Mary Lamb

Menu and pertinent information is at the events facebook page, here:

Community to Table WCK Fundraiser Brunch

All of the proceeds will be given directly to the Williamsport Community Kitchen, to aid them in better equipping the space for future food entrepreneurs.