Saturday, March 10, 2007

Dinner and a Show

Mark, Sarah and I were enjoying our dinner. The caesar salad that Mark made for us was delicious. As we were savouring the delights of his efforts Brittany happened to notice that all of our eyes had averted to her. The conversation had ceased and as we were enjoying each mouthful of salad we were intently watching the 'show'. It just so happened that this particular performance was down one of its usual cast members. (Jonathan was working.)

Over the years, Mark, Sarah and I have affectionately titled our supper time as 'Dinner and A Show'. Okay, really Sarah probably wouldn't be affectionate about it. As many households probably have, our family members have each laid claim to 'their spot' at the table. This includes Mark at the head with Brittany and Jonathan on one side and Sarah and I on the other.

Jonathan and Brittany are natural entertainers. (We know where they get that from.) Supper time has availed to them an audience that for as long as it takes the meal to be ingested, they have an opportunity to perform. They compliment each other nicely. They both can separately play the 'straight guy', however, the funny line usually falls to the younger of the two. Many times I am left shaking my head as I turn towards my husband who can no longer contain himself. When their father is trying unsuccessfully to not laugh, it just fuels them on. They know they've done well when they've caused Dad to stop eating because he cannot contain himself.

Are they learning proper dining etiquette? Probably not. Are they assuming correct table manners? Maybe not. But, they are certainly creating lasting memories that I would rather not do without.

Sarah has her own giftings in drama. Just ask her teachers at school. However, when it comes to her younger siblings, she would rather remain in the audience. Especially during dinner time.

A quiet peaceful meal is certainly enjoyable. But, a 'Dinner and A Show' is something truly special.

Rhonda

5 comments:

Jen said...

Enjoy your Shows, they are a gift....and there will be time for quiet "proper" dinners down the road...unless Mark decides to become the performer!

Family suppers are great!
Jen

Amy said...

I often wonder if anyone came to our house to eat what they would think of my 'rastefarians'.... entertaining children are wonderful though!! I don't anticipate a quiet, peaceful dinner for quite some time to come....

ENJOY--before we know it, it will be too quiet...(is there such a thing???)
Amy

Shari said...

I was thinking of your Mark as we were eating dinner...I made a smacking noise while eating and we all know how much Mark loves (NOT) eating noises!!

What would dinner be without the entertainment? Kevin and all of our kids keep the ball rolling at the table. Derek definately gets an A plus for humor at our table. When Derek leaves home meals will not be the same!

So enjoy Dinner and a Show while you can..the clock is ticking.
Shari

Anonymous said...

I'm so glad for my shows here at home too.

For over 14 years, we have had Barney as a side show during dinner, always trying to interfere, and lul us with his songs. (that can't get out of your head by the way!!)
Now, we have no Barney, and are having so much fun!

I wish we never had to loose these awesome times.

Tamatha said...

She's right....Barney doesn't leave your head.....I was only living there for a little over two years...and I still find some tunes popping up here and there!:o)lol