Isn't it amazing how a simple project can open up conversations we never have time for? I've seen similar things happen when people work on stuff together. Who would have thought making hot sauce could be the key to reconnecting? Those shared moments really stick with you, don't they? Glad you got that time with your brothers.
Why do you think hands-on stuff like that cuts through the small talk better than just hanging out? Feels like having a shared goal to focus on, even a silly one, makes the real talk happen on its own.