The American model is The Lone Ranger putting food on the table (just a man and his dog). The European model is, with considerable local variation, a big time social event. There are reasons for both models. Understanding other cultures and ways of dong things is not as painful as some make it out to be.

em, thanks for helping with the understanding. Nice photo essay!! BTW, the bit about kids blossoming in a social setting more than in a solitary setting is major significant.