The Aud Fraternity

Yes, today, I am a man. Not in the sense that...wait. What does it mean to be a man? A mustache? A ponchie stomach? A respectable Roth IRA or investment portfolio?

No.

I know exactly what it means now.

My Father's birthday was May 26th and Father's Day is this weekend. So, my Dad, two brothers, and I went out for a male bonding extravaganza to celebrate both occasions.

There was beer drinking, darts, pool playing, steak eating, and talk about women and a little sports(not so much by me.)

It was, in most typical definitions, a "manly" night. But, there was a side of tenderness that probably went undetected by most bystanders.

There was a sense of unity and companionship that had not necessarily existed before. The "guys" had never been out before, so we had a toast to acknowledge that and a few other things with out first of many pitchers. I remember my Dad and brothers saying numerous times, "God, this is great. I'm really having fun. We should do this annually." I agreed. Imagine that, four men, never having a night out when they can get together and talk. it was a monumental night.

It was, and I will probably regret saying this later, reminiscent of a "Sex in the City" brunch. There was "men talk" centered around food and drink.

I also would like to add that us three brothers took our turns on the machine that measures your punching power. My younger brother copped the high score, it's funny if you compare his stature to my brother's and mine. But, it was fun none-the-less.

After dinner at a steakhouse, go figure, we ended back at my parent's house. But, before we went inside there was a "man hug." All four of us grouped together saying we love each other and stubble all over the place. My younger brother happened to suggest it. Good idea. It was a very tender moment.

We ended the hug saying we would do it again, and we will. The Aud boys had their night out in the name of their father, and it was grand.