A Weekend of Togetherness: Iftar with Family & Friends
Ramadhan has always been special, but some days feel extra meaningful, like this past weekend. Usually, it’s just me and My All breaking fast at the mosque, keeping it simple, enjoying the peacefulness. But this time, the weekend turned into a celebration of togetherness, filled with laughter, amazing food, and cherished company.
Saturday was all about family. Since this gathering involved five families, phew.. about 20 of us, we decided to book a homestay in Putrajaya. The plan was not just for iftar, but also to perform Terawikh together, stay the night, have Sahur, and check out on Sunday morning. The beauty of this plan? Everyone contributed. We went full-on potluck style, and the menu was nothing short of amazing. Sup tulang, rich and flavorful, took center stage, accompanied by creamy, spicy Ikan Tenggiri masak lemak and a side of mixed vegetables. The kids had a blast folding popia and samosa, which My All later fried to golden perfection. We also had bubur lambuk, a Ramadhan staple, and an abundance of fresh fruits.
Breaking fast in a homely, lively setting was a different kind of joy. Usually, when it’s just the two of us at the mosque, everything is quiet and peaceful. But here? The energy was high, the conversations never-ending, and the food, endless. After iftar, we prayed Terawikh together, and later that night, the catching-up session continued well into the night. Stories were shared, laughter echoed through the homestay, and for a moment, it felt like we were kids again, just a big, happy family under one roof. Sahur was simple but meaningful. Leftover bubur lambuk, some fruits, and warm drinks. The kind of meal that felt effortless but carried so much warmth when shared with family.
If Saturday was about family, then Sunday was about rekindling friendships. Me and My All joined our former JMB friends for an iftar buffet, something we hadn’t done before. If the homestay iftar was warm and homey, this was the complete opposite, grand, indulgent, and full of variety. Lamb grill, juicy and smoky, was the highlight, accompanied by an endless array of dishes from local favorites to international spreads. It was, in short, a feast. The conversations flowed as freely as the food. It wasn’t just about eating but it was about reconnecting, reminiscing, and appreciating the bond that still remained.
And as much as I enjoyed it, by the end of the night, one thought lingered in my mind: I need to get back on track with my calorie intake. This weekend was one for the books. Most days, it’s just me and My All at the mosque, breaking fast with simple meals, feeling the peace that comes with Ramadhan. But this weekend, it was about togetherness. Family, friends, good food, and heartfelt conversations. The joy of cooking together, the warmth of sharing a meal, the laughter that fills the air. The realization that while food nourishes the body, moments like these nourish the soul.
And for that, Alhamdulillah. Now, back to reality… Hahaha, and back to balancing my calorie intake. Ramadhan is not a food marathon, I remind myself. But some weekends, it’s okay to let go a little. Because food tastes better when shared with people you love.
