Gibbs had decided to go the simple route for their first barbeque since everything that happened and stick with hamburgers and hot dogs, basic, tasty food, and easy enough to eat one handed.

He kept a careful eye on the grill. He was prepared for anything that could go wrong with the cooking: he had extra coals ready and waiting to be added, and a spray bottle on the table in case dripping grease caused a flare up. He just hoped he was equally ready for any other problem that might occur.

He'd put the others in charge of the side dishes and desserts after warning them on what foods, and actions, would be appropriate. Abby had brought a tray of cut up vegetables; Gibbs only recognized carrots and celery, though there was something he'd thought at first was broccoli until he'd gotten a better look at it and realized it was purple. He'd made the decision, then and there, that while Ducky was always admonishing him to eat his greens, he'd never said anything about other-colored foods and therefore it was perfectly fine to stay far away from the entire tray, just to be on the safe side.

McGee had brought a few bags of chips and salty snacks. The pretzels looked safe enough, but the potato chips were some green and white, flavored kind that made his eyes water and left a sticky powder on his fingers. After his first taste, Gibbs had decided to steer clear of those as well. Although, the way the rest of the team was eating, it didn't look like there would any left by the time he finished cooking anyway.

Ziva had brought hummus, a dip she claimed would go well with the vegetables and chips. Ducky had looked happy to see it, although Gibbs had to admit he'd tuned out the story it'd inspired Ducky to tell.

Palmer and Ducky had come together, Ducky bringing the drinks, non-alcoholic of course, and Palmer the dessert, walnut chocolate chip cookies. Apparently, they used to be Tony's favorite, back in the day.

Palmer was surprisingly good with Tony. Not like McGee, who floundered about trying to think of something to say that wouldn't be inappropriate or upsetting, or Ziva, who looked at Tony with such pity in her eyes it made even Gibbs wince.

Abby was still Abby, and despite the way fluttered around Tony with her hugs and never-ending chatter Tony seemed comfortable enough, sitting there soaking it up along with Palmer's unassuming acceptance.

Overall Tony had been quiet today, far quieter than he'd ever been before it all went to hell, but even quiet for how he was now: when it was just the two of them, coffee and the boat. For a moment Gibbs was concerned, but then Tony smiled that bright, shining smile of his and Gibbs decided that maybe Tony had the right idea.

He cracked open a soda and relaxed, determined to enjoy the rest of the day.