Barbecue
Last Sunday we had a group of friends over for a barbecue. Lots of laughter, good conversation, beer, and music.
I have a very discreet party side because I'm not really that into social gatherings. At my house, for example, I don't let just anyone in. If you are ever invited, know that you are someone very special to me and my wife and that we trust you.
I think it's important to have a small group (maximum 4) of people you enjoy being with, laughing, talking about random things in life, and talking a little about work. This helps to relieve the pressures of our challenging lives.
I love barbecuing, I love the ritual of choosing the meat at the butcher's, buying drinks, charcoal, lighting the grill, carefully arranging the meat on the grill, choosing the right position according to the type and temperature of the brazier.
Sometimes, to make a friend feel more useful or even to free myself up to chat without worrying about burning the garlic bread, I give the barbecue duties to someone else.
These gatherings make me very happy. We talk, I listen to my dear friends' achievements, look at photos of their new cars, hear stories about the cool new company so-and-so started working for, and I'm happy to be able to give them my attention.
At the end of the day, when the grill is already going out and the music is getting quieter, I always think that this is what makes it all worthwhile: real people, good conversation, and a leisurely Sunday. Life is already too hectic, so these simple gatherings end up becoming what we need most: a breather. Here's to more Sundays like this, with good meat, friends nearby, and no rush to leave.