Pig Heaven

By Jamie Rieger

The warm weather that we get to enjoy during the summer months has many people taking the time to enjoy leisurely outdoor activities.

Whether we are heading to the nearest campground or golf course or just relaxing in the backyard with good friends, summer seems to get the couch potatoes off their duffs and out to enjoy some of the sunshine. In southern Alberta, we never know how long the nice weather will last, so we better enjoy it while we have it.

On Saturday, that is exactly what I did. I didn't go camping or golfing, though. Instead, I got invited to a pig roast and decided that this was social gathering I didn't want to pass up. So, my daughter, her boyfriend packed up the car with salads, lunch chairs and lots of cold refreshments and headed out for an evening of socializing.

The pig roast was held on an acreage just outside the city and when we turned into the yard, we couldn't believe the number of people who were there. And, the masses quickly separated into two groups: The young folks who gathered and spent a lot of time walking around the yard and us of the older generation, who formed a circle with their lawn chairs and coolers. Some of us just enjoyed the socializing and didn't even get up from our chairs until the hosts yelled, "Supper!!'

With everybody bringing a salad, dessert or other food item, the spread was truly amazing and I don't think I was able to sample half of what was laid out before me. The main event, though, was the roast pig, which was succulent and roasted to perfection. I was in pig heaven.

After supper, people took strolls through the yard to check out the hosts' animals, including the buffalo, pigs, and sheep, and had to check out some of the vintage vehicles that some of the guests drove to the party. Then, it was back to the lawn chairs for more giggles, storytelling, and great music.

As soon as the sun starting lowering in the western sky, a fire was lit in the pit and the older generation congregated with the younger people who provided humorous entertainment for everybody.

It was a great night, with great people and great food and an evening that was thoroughly enjoyed by everybody. I am already looking forward to the next gathering that will pull me off the couch and away from my baseball games. Some things are more important than seeing if my team is going to win or lose. Spending time with good people gives far greater memories and besides, I can always catch the highlights of the game on the computer when I get home.