Mom Cooked

One way the 1950's were different (better) is that Mom cooked every meal every day. Sure, families went out to eat and sometimes Dad did the barbecuing outside, but overall, Mom cooked. Breakfast wasn't the common diner-style ordering that kids have now. One kid comes in with "I want a waffle" while another comes in with "I want cereal" and Mom hastily throws breakfast piecemeal on the table as they make it to the kitchen (and usually the TV is on in the other room or the ipods are on the table with you). Lunch is more of the same. No, no, no. Back in the day, Mom had breakfast prepared as she wanted. If Mom felt like serving pancakes and sausage, she made enough for everyone. The table was set and everyone was called down at the same time to sit and eat as a family. Kids weren't at the table with their hair in disarray and pajamas on. You were washed, dressed and ready for the day before you were allowed to sit down at the table. If you missed breakfast, you probably got to eat it cold when you did make it to the table (no microwave, remember?). The same was true for lunch on the weekends (or, if you homeschool like we do, everyday). When Mom called you in for lunch, you ate what she served and you sat down as a family and ate it together. If lunch was sandwiches, they were on the table, your hands and face were clean and you ate with your parents. Why have we gotten away from this? Schedules? Maybe. For those of you that do send your kids to school, it can get harrowing. However, if you want the meal time as a family, the effort has to be there. And if Dad's the one who's home, this is Dad's job. Here's a challenge to you. Try this for a week. Set your alarm to get up before you want everyone to have breakfast. If you want breakfast served at 7:00, get yourself and it ready by that time. Set the table and sit down with your family to a family breakfast and then, if your day permits, try it for lunch. Don't allow phones, computers or anything electronic on during your meal. Have your kids clear their plates (after they've asked to be excused) and then clean up right away so nothing ends up sitting around dirty. See how you feel after a few days of that. :)