Cooking In The Rain 

Last week’s post ‘dancing in the rain’ was a reminder to make the most of whatever life throws at us and I have had numerous opportunities this weekend to prove that. I have spent the last two days at Yorkshire Dale Food Festival and to say there was rain would be an understatement.

The rain has not stopped over the last forty eight hours on a farm ground where over thirty thousand people were expected with many of them camping on the site. It was the perfect opportunity for people to be grumpy and frustrated but the amazing thing was that everyone embraced the harsh realities of the rain, muddy grounds and dirty boots. 

There was no way anyone could think about how they looked as the weather normalised the norm for everyone, we all looked like Yorkshire farmers in wellies, rain coats and water proof boots. People freely shopped and the children had much fun jumping in the puddles. 

Looking good or clean wasn’t an option and we just went with the flow. The festival has been going since 2016 and this is the first time they have had this much rain; the organisers put in the contingencies they could and hoped for the best. 

Interestingly rather than complain about the weather as we do, we all bravely smiled at each other as if to give a silent pat on the back for a job well done, for braving the weather and refusing to give in to the doom and gloom it could represent. It was another stark reminder that whilst we are not in control of the things that happen to and around us, we always remain in control of how we respond.

Seeing little children in their waterproof onesies took me back decades. There was much to love and still smile about. The life lessons continued as I had to cook in the rain with appearances on three food stages. 

Take a moment to look outwards.

I was reminded of the part of the world coping with excessively high temperatures in the late 40 with speculations that they could reach 52 degrees. The rain seemed mild compared to those who described the weather as being like ‘breathing in a furnace.’ 

Focus on the job at hand and get it done

I saw immense dedication from the organisers, PR team, traders, farmers and chefs who were there to do their Jobs or showcase their crafts, produces, products and skills. Everyone showed up in the best of spirits to do their jobs. 

The support staff remained helpful, courteous and determined whilst the entertainers didn’t leave the stage. 

We are all in it together

There is a camaraderie that comes when you realise you are in the same boat as others when it comes to certain things; this applies to life in general. At any point in time, you are not alone in any given  situation – good or bad and you can find your community if you look hard enough. 

The rain didn’t differentiate between any one of us and there is a comfort knowing that you are not the only one having to deal with the muddy grounds and constant wetness. There was no envy, jealousy or competition; I suspect people were just happy to be standing on their feet rather than sliding on their bottom. We need to remind ourselves that there’s a big world out there and someone out there knows and understand whatever emotions we are feeling at any time. You are never truly alone.

Be grateful for little mercies

Many people were glad for the family entertainment to keep the little ones busy, engaged and connected to nature. Farmers were at the ready with their tractors in case drivers got stuck in the field. The kindness and politeness of people were on display as people offered to help each other from helping mums with their prams to chatting to ‘dog parents’. Above all the joy on children’s faces as they made memories with their parents was priceless.

Make the most of the opportunities 

A final highlight for me was getting the opportunities to meet so many other foodies from the customers to the professionals and seeing people’s curiosities satisfied. These connections will open new doors for anyone that leverages them. 

I came away from the event knackered but fulfilled and with much hope for the future.

Thanks for reading my post. Have an awesome week and see you next week.