We bought a new dinning table couple of months back for kitchen area. But we never sat together at the table as a family to eat dinner. When ever Shivani asks why we are not eating, I would push the subject away, saying we still have to buy new mats, dinner plates, rug. But the main reason was I usually feed them and I feel that they do not know how to eat by themselves, so I was really not ready to deal that at the table.

Couple of days back she was bent upon eating dinner on the table. As the ball was in my court, I gave kids few responsibilities and laid out few dinner table rules. They need to put glasses with water and tissues for everyone on the table. Rules were they need to eat by themselves, put their empty plates in the sink and talk about their school. I still pre-mix curry with rice, then curds with rice and give them in separate plates.

But Shivani added few more rules, wash hands before dinner, everyone has to wait until all members are present at the table, say the prayer together and last one is no watching TV as few (only Shivani) members cannot view TV from where they were sitting.

Kids loved their first day - July 14th, 2008. Yesterday, Shivani had set the table and surprised us. She arranged spoons and forks on either side of the plate and water glasses on coasters for everyone. We waited till DP was there at the table then said the prayer - God oh father, God oh father, once again, once again, we bow ourselves to Thank You, we bow ourselves to Thank you, Amen. I still have to get the lyrics right.

I wish this continues for next few years but shall wait and see.