I went out for Korean BBQ with some buddies last night. One guy I’ve known since 2008, the others joined our “life group” over the past 5 years. We keep things pretty transparent and it sometimes it helps to just talk things through with other guys who are going through life’s ups and downs.
Going out tonight for some steaks, scotch and cigars. One guy I’ve know for a while, and my neighbor who I’ve only met a few times. But who doesn’t like steak and scotch?
Outside of these more intimate gatherings, I’m involved in a dads/daughters program, and also a dads/sons program. Between the 2, I see a lot of the same dudes at least once a month for camp outs, hiking, fish and other stuff. It’s for the kids, but also for the dads to talk on a more superficial level, but enjoy the camaraderie of being dads with kids around the same age.
I didn’t always have this. And now that I do, can’t imagine life without it.
OTOH, I’ve always encouraged my wife to go out with the girls. It takes her a while to meet new people and grow closer to them, so whenever she wants to do something (even some LAST MINUTE weekend trips), I tell her I’ll hold down the fort at home and let her get away from the kids for a few hours or a few days.