45. have a silent picnic

For a great time gather some talkative people together, set them out on a blanket with food, and forbid them speech. Their attempts to circumvent the silence are precious. They glance meaningfully at crackers and grapes, invent vague gestures, nod and smile to excess, and occasionally appear to be in some pain.

Just as wonderful is an afternoon with people who don't mind being quiet and a little self contained. When there's a ban on talking, nobody is under pressure to engage and entertain an audience. No aimless story telling, no chattering banter, no awkward pauses while we all wait for someone to step into a conversational gap. Instead there is a fresh summer afternoon, tasty snacks, and friendly company - and you're allowed to enjoy them all without the distraction of constant social twitching. The only interruption is the squirming of the talkative people.

Try this one. You'll be surprised at how much you don't need to say.