Friendsgiving, according to an online search, is “The desire to create a less formal, stress-free holiday with a chosen family, and to provide a way for people who live far from their biological families to still celebrate the holiday. It allows people to avoid potential family conflicts, focus on the company, and create new, more personal traditions with their friends.”

The Indian Mountain Lake community held its first-ever potluck Friendsgiving on Saturday.

“Friendsgiving is about more than a meal,” noted Taylor Fitzpatrick, chair of the social committee. “It’s a chance to meet new friends and people. And If you yourself have no family, it’s a gentle and natural way of having a get-together for a holiday to fill the hole in your heart.

“We are really throwing this so close to Thanksgiving because I know there are many of our neighbors who have no one to go home to Thursday. They can have a home with us today.”

Main courses of turkey and ham were provided by the community. Corn casserole, sausage stuffing balls, mac and cheese, broccoli casserole and mashed potatoes were some of the dishes residents brought.

Plenty of desserts — from cupcakes to cookies and, of course, pumpkin and apple pie — were also available.

Jayson Perez and Jeff Lawhorn moved to the community six weeks ago and were happy to share the day with new friends and neighbors. Lawhorn was an Army Sniper and New Jersey state trooper but considers himself a “hillbilly from Ohio” glad to get back to country living.

Six-year-old Quinn Solt said her favorite part was, “When we get to eat, especially brownies.”

Activities were available for children, including tablecloths that could be colored on, and making a handprint turkey with paint.

“It’s a great event to bring our community together, young and old, with great food and great friends.” said board Chair Gary Fredericks, who brought wife, Virginia, and his 1- and 2-year-old grandchildren to the event.

Happiness filled the room as everyone enjoyed sharing a meal and time with friends, old and new. This is definitely the start of an annual Friendsgiving celebration.