Our family has gotten into a really bad habit. I'm almost ashamed to admit it. Mainly because when I was growing up, my dad would have never allowed this to happen. Are you ready to hear my confession? We have been eating dinner on the couch. Every. Night. It started out just a few times a week. Sienna would be watching a movie while we made dinner and we (including Eastan) would just join her when it was time to eat. But like all bad habits, it was a slippery slope. Before I knew it, each night we were on the couch instead of eating together as a family. I guess, technically, we were eating as a family. But I don't think that really counts because not much conversation was happening unless it was Sienna asking about "Sweeping Bootee" (Sleeping Beauty for those who don't speak Sienna).
I said earlier, that my dad would never allow this to happen when I was growing up. Mornings were rushed with my brother and I getting ready for school. My dad worked long hours, especially during the summer. So, dinner time was about the only time we all sat down together. Occasionally, we would "accidentally" leave the kitchen television on, but my dad was quick to turn it off.
During the Olympics, I told Nick that we really needed to start eating dinner at the table. As a family. He agreed and said that as soon as the Olympics were over, we would quit eating in the living room. Well, a week passed by and nothing changed. Until yesterday!
We made the announcement to the kids that we would no longer be eating on the couch. Sienna asked to sit next to Eastan instead of sitting in her high chair. She loved it. I loved the conversation that we all had. Nick and Sienna did a cheers for new beginnings. I know, we are cheesy like that!
p.s. Please don't judge that Sienna is eating a pancake and Eastan is eating pizza. Today, is the day we are incorporating a well-balanced meal to our list of new beginnings.
