In an increasingly complex world, staying connected to each other can be challenging, hence the goal of this newsletter is to provide you with practical ideas through shared captures of French life bonding moments, and more.
Last minute sneak-outs
I love impromptu outings. And dining with working parents and their little ones is a category of outing in itself, which has its own charm. This time, I had come home for the week because my mother had been feeling under the weather since the day before. A couple of friends, who happen to be working parents, took notice and kindly suggested we eat out, providing a much-needed change of scenery. The decision was made last minute, on a whim, as if planning a teenage sneak-out. The organization was amusingly scattered. Should we meet there at 8pm after work? Or walk part of the way together? Who will take care of the kids? Or should they dine with us?
Upon arrival, we naturally claimed central stage, deftly parking aside strollers from our way. Waiters greeted us warmly, their smiles radiant as the sun. When it came time to order, and as zealous epicureans, choosing any dish felt dazzling. Options unfolded before our eyes - hummus, moutabal, tabbouleh, falafel, fatayer, etc. - each was asking for commitment. As we waited, some delighted in the sweetness of their minted lemonade or orangeade, savoring the pleasure of this springtime evening.
One friend’s partner who is Argentinian - and somehow managed to never try Lebanese before - was in awe to find similarities with certain dishes from back home. Both in looks and tastes. Even their little one was endearingly misnaming his sambousek order as empanadas.
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Toasting victories
My younger brother had returned home two days prior. He has been living in South-East France as part of his studies, occasionally gracing us with his presence in our cooler region. Dining out at the Lebanese has remained an obvious choice for celebrating our counting victories over the years.
This time around, we were toasting to two new creative endeavors. First, my brother, who has been passionate about Japan for, well, a decade around the sun, had finally discovered how to further explore, engage, and experiment with native animation. Second, my community writing project, here on Substack. Despite occasional lapses when conversing with friends and bouts of flushing, the idea had ultimately come to fruition. Here’s to many more.
As we reached the height of rejoicing, dishes came into view. There is a radiant quality to a carefully crafted Lebanese plate, with vibrant orange hues and hopeful green touches. For dessert, we opted for shared treats - since sharing is caring. Mafroukeh, Nammoura, Halawa Bil Jeben, etc. We definitely let loose, picking bites from offered courses and forgetting about ourselves, amidst uproaring laughter.
Taking time to appreciate and celebrate (and recuperate)
Reflecting on such festivities, I feel essentially grateful for the opportunity to take time and appreciate these bonding moments. Adding the bright Mediterranean mood and nutritious delights into the frame undoubtedly mark the occasion. With sunny days ahead, I eagerly look forward to more celebrations and cherished times with those dear to me. Rest and recuperation can wait for another day.
✍️ I would love to know…
How do you celebrate life wins ?
With whom do you share these moments ?
Does it involve comfort food ?