So, I was looking through some photos the other day, because that's what I do, and I was struck by the number of photos that include my dining table. Let me clarify that the only "dining" table in my house is in the kitchen. Nevertheless, it is a rectangle table with 6 chairs around it, and there is a high chair at one end. And it is intended to be the place where we eat. But it is so much more than that.
It is at this table where pumpkins are carved, and photos of glowing jack-o-lanterns taken, every year. Every video of singing Happy Birthday to little boys (and their parents and some grandparents, aunts and uncles, for that matter) includes this table. Photos of family gatherings, from Christmas dinners to Sunday game nights. Video of first finger paintings, and toddlers learning to climb up on a chair without hitting their heads on the table.
And then I thought about all the things that happen at this table that are not in photos or video. Of course, we eat breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and more snacks at the table. We also do homework, wrap presents, try out new toys, plan vacations, read the newspaper, decorate Easter eggs and visit with friends and family at this table. And so much more than that.
My point, if I have one, is this. The next time I hear a parenting expert suggest that I gather my family around the table for dinner, I will simply gather my family around the table. After all, dinner or not, it is where the family gathers.
3 comments:
I love it! I love how you can write a post based on something as simple as a dining room table.
I'm sure that table, and the activities you all share around it, will be engrained in the boys' memories as they grow older.
That table has hosted a few Girls' Nights, too!! And the table must be sturdy if it lasted thru all the food we always seem to have...
Great post!
I really like this post because it's so true. The fact that it has survived the pounding from two small boys is amazing in itself. I hope this table stays at the heart of your family for a long time. Who know, one of the children will likely be fighting over it when they eventually move from home!
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