There are those perfect days in early spring when everything feels fresh and new. Spring fever is in the air, and instead of tidying up closets and cleaning out the garage, my favorite seasonal activity is to invite a group of girlfriends for lunch in the garden. Girlfriends and soul sisters are an integral part of my life. I rely on their sage advice, and together we laugh and cry with total abandon—and dish out opinions as often as possible. Inviting them for a long, leisurely lunch at home, to share stories and accomplishments, is a way to bond and create lasting camaraderie. I have created a menu that can be made ahead of time, so I don’t miss a bit of gossip; that is flavorful but light and low in calories, to look after my girlfriends’ well-being; and that has a great surprise at the end, to finish the …