After finishing our work, we decided to celebrate with our friends. We invited close friends and family for a Saturday barbecue. Around twenty people showed up. We had a great time relaxing, playing songs on the guitar, laughing, and reminiscing. I was thrilled that we managed to fully set up our space, with our loved ones joining us in the celebration.
We have a small cottage in the countryside near Oxford—a legacy from my wife. Every spring, we head there and spend the summer until the first frosts. We could stay for the winter, but we find life more convenient in the city. We enjoy living closer to nature, breathing fresh air, and having the peace and quiet we long for.
We tend a small garden, where we grow tomatoes, cucumbers, strawberries, cherries, currants, raspberries, onions, zucchinis, greens, carrots, beets, and gooseberries. My wife takes care of this, while I gradually tidy up the house and look after the chickens we raise each summer.
Last year, I decided to build a gazebo for some shade and a spot for barbecues.
Of course, doing it all by myself was tough. My wife helped as much as she could, but she had the garden and housework to manage. We asked some friends for a hand, calling nearly everyone, but they were busy, even though they’re retired. Nobody was free for a few hours, even on weekends. It was a bit disappointing, but they weren’t obligated to help us.
After completing the tasks, we thought it’d be nice to celebrate with friends. We had a Saturday barbecue with close friends and family, with about twenty guests. We enjoyed ourselves, playing guitar, laughing, and sharing memories.
In conclusion, I was delighted to have fully set up our space, with our loved ones there to celebrate with us.
“I’m so glad we could have you all here today, but it’s time to wrap things up!”
Well, it began. Nearly the entire summer last year, we had visitors. Some arrived for a couple of days with their grandchildren and stayed much longer. We could accommodate five people at once. Some arrived, others left. They brought some supplies, bought a little food, but they all came to visit and have a holiday.
We wanted some alone time, as the constant company was tiring. My wife felt embarrassed to tell them outright, because they were friends, not strangers. In such situations, what do you say? We’re tired of you, please go home? Naturally, you can’t say that.
So, I decided to take charge. One evening, when there were many people in the living room, I shared my plans. I said I wanted to make a pond and detailed the work plan, then added:
“Since our house is never empty, I won’t need to seek helpers. We’ll do it together. I think we’ll start next week. You’re planning to spend your holidays here, so there are enough of us, and anyone who arrives can help. It’ll be nice to relax by the water at dusk.”
After my speech, there was silence in the house. Everyone, with a forced smile, said they’d surely come and help, but soon after, the house emptied.
Only the next day, the son of my best friend arrived. He’d heard about the plans and volunteered to help, as he works remotely. So, together, we slowly built the pond.
Now it’s quiet. For some reason, friends don’t even visit during the holidays. At least they have some conscience.
