Chickpea’s Day: Connecting, Sharing, and Dreaming

Today was one of those days that just fills your heart with warmth and hope. I met a wonderful guy named Michael while out walking—he’s in a wheelchair and had his lovely dog Serena with him. I was with Wilbur, my birthday girl’s dog who’s no longer a pup but a five-year-old full of energy. We walked together for about 20 minutes, sharing smiles and stories.

Later, I realised I should have given Michael my business card. It would have been great to invite him to one of my tortilla-making sessions on Fridays. I envision these gatherings as a way to bring people together, to cook, share, and enjoy each other's company — young and old alike. Michael would be the perfect guest, along with my 70-year-old neighbor who prefers to stay home, the amazing 96-year-old up the road I helped with meals recently, and my old college friend Paul, who’s back to working himself into the ground at the hotel we used to work at together. Sadly, Paul’s been so busy with five night shifts in a row that he hasn’t had time even for coffee—he was the one who suggested it, though!

On another note, I gave some fresh courgettes from the allotment and a tiny jar of homemade gooseberry jam to Wilbur’s owner when she came to collect him, along with the sweetest birthday card I got help writing (thank you!). Little moments like these make such a difference.

It’s days like today that remind me why I’m so passionate about the Chickpea Hub. It’s not just about food—it’s about community, connection, and care. I hope to create a space where everyone feels welcome to share a meal, a story, and a smile. Because at the end of the day, it’s the simple things that nourish us the most.