10th BFBBQ

Ten years of throwing the best barbecue of the summer. The evolution of the BFBBQ has been amazing. The first year it was the party of the century. We went through eight kegs and picked up more beer. Everyone’s friends of friends of friends were in attendance. And as the years have gone by we have had some bad weather years, battles over the details and tons of crazy stories. No year though (although they have all been different in their own way) has been like this year for me.

We had a very low attendance this year. And if it weren’t for the raised entrance fee, I’m not sure we would have been able to cover our costs and still donate. I’m very grateful to all those who came to support our cause. Normally there’s a correlation between weather, events, etc. to attribute for shifts in attendance. This year, however, there was no reason for it.

In some ways, though, it seemed special in its own way. We all were able to engage with each other, play with the kids, and remember why we have all come together year after year to organize such an important event. And for the kids, it became the most exciting day of the year.

We had sports games, bags tournaments, pinatas, water balloons, etc. There was a free flow of junk food, a fun park nearby for a change in scenery, neglected nap times and nature walks. The night even ended with movie night and a group sleepover!

I’d be lying if I said that I wasn’t disappointed that people who are important to me weren’t there to share in the festivities. But I think this may be the shift in growing up. I think this is when people start finding their own way – a way that fits their family or individual needs. I hope in years to come those same people will be a part of my future wonderful times. But I’m also grateful for our past memories. And the direction to which my life is going (and the BFBBQ as well) is thrilling in a way that’s so different than where I came from…even if there’s a heck of a lot less beer involved 🙂