Family Day, Monday, September 23, 2013
Family is so important! My husband and I raised our children more than a thousand miles from our nearest relative. We learned to cherish the times we were able to see grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. But, we found our family unit of four was able to withstand any challenge due to our time we spent together.
We had a goal of eating together each evening. My meals were not always fancy; macaroni and cheese and hotdogs or sandwiches and fruit were hastily prepared between various athletic practices and homework. But our priority was always a brief time at the family table. We did not have a television that was in view of the table. We always put real plates and silverware out. We sat down and discussed what each of us had done the day. Often we talked about events in our neighborhood, in the community, or the world! We shared ideas and challenges. Some of the conversations were silly, others serious.
I never realized the impact of this time together until my children matured and left home. As empty nesters, my husband and I changed our habits and eat out a bit more, eat in the living room or just have quick dinners. Every time my daughters visit, they expect a meal and time at the table. If I try to serve food a different way, I will hear, “we aren’t sitting down to eat?” We still enjoy the opportunity to share, laugh and debate important issues. Some of our most important debates now include which college football team is the best!
Cherish your family dinner time! Celebrate your family on Monday, September 23 and take part in the Family Day event occurring across the country!
Family is so important! My husband and I raised our children more than a thousand miles from our nearest relative. We learned to cherish the times we were able to see grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. But, we found our family unit of four was able to withstand any challenge due to our time we spent together.
We had a goal of eating together each evening. My meals were not always fancy; macaroni and cheese and hotdogs or sandwiches and fruit were hastily prepared between various athletic practices and homework. But our priority was always a brief time at the family table. We did not have a television that was in view of the table. We always put real plates and silverware out. We sat down and discussed what each of us had done the day. Often we talked about events in our neighborhood, in the community, or the world! We shared ideas and challenges. Some of the conversations were silly, others serious.
I never realized the impact of this time together until my children matured and left home. As empty nesters, my husband and I changed our habits and eat out a bit more, eat in the living room or just have quick dinners. Every time my daughters visit, they expect a meal and time at the table. If I try to serve food a different way, I will hear, “we aren’t sitting down to eat?” We still enjoy the opportunity to share, laugh and debate important issues. Some of our most important debates now include which college football team is the best!
Cherish your family dinner time! Celebrate your family on Monday, September 23 and take part in the Family Day event occurring across the country!