When I was young,
A summer fish fry was a summer staple.

Whenever the boys and men of the family
Were successful in their pursuit of trout, bass or bullheads,
A family fish fry would ensue.

Fish, caught, would be processed for cooking;
Phone calls would be made,
With the family matriarch inviting all to join in.

“Bring a dish to share”, she advised,
As she prepared to fry the fish and potatoes
And boil coffee for the whole group.

Salads, side dishes, drinks and desserts
Appeared as family members arrived,
And a feast developed in spite of short notice.

Once the fish was fried, crisp in bacon fat,
The call came… ”Let’s eat!”
And everyone rushed to the tables.

The food was delicious;
Nothing beats fried fish, just recently caught,
And myriad sides complement it nicely.

But, the real value of the summertime fish fry
Was not in the food, but in the people:
Sharing the meal… sharing the experience with family and friends
Is what made it special!