Gloria Smith, our Epic Brunch hostess (“epic” because they last several leisurely hours), is a master of the egg bake and the pineapple upside-down cake. Platters of Lemon Jalapeño Johnny Cakes and Cherry Vanilla Streusel Monkey Bread fly out of Gloria’s kitchen, along with fruit salads, trifles, cups of coffee. Gloria’s greatest masterpiece, however, is her ability to bring friends together, mark the calendar with food holiday-themed events, and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere in this chaotic and conflict-filled world. Epic Brunches are a celebration not just of friendship and food, but poetry as well. This book is the result of these joyous times.