The Culture of the Dinner Table
Some of my fondest childhood memories revolve around the legendary Sunday dinners at my Nana and Papa's house. The moment you walked through the door, the scent of delicious food enveloped you, instantly making your mouth water. Sometimes it was simple, and sometimes the flavors were out of this world.
But it wasn't just about the food; it was about shared stories, laughter filling the room, and love radiating from every corner. Those Sunday dinners were a sacred time for my family, a moment when we all came together to truly connect.
When I started my own family, I was determined to recreate that culture. We made it a tradition to gather around our dinner table. (Y’all, my husband even built it with his own hands.) Regardless of whether it was a culinary masterpiece or just takeout, our nightly gatherings became something we all looked forward to throughout the week. Zack or I would holler out “Eaty, Eaty” (no joke, that's what we say), summoning the kids to help set the table, and we would all eagerly share our day.
They’d join us even if they weren’t very hungry because it's not just about the food; it's about the connections formed, the stories shared, and the bonds strengthened. As we pass around the taco toppings or the spaghetti (depending on the night), we take turns recounting our highs and lows. It's like a mini therapy session, mixed with a bit of comedy, but with a side of garlic bread.
Even now, at least 4 out of 7 nights, our table becomes a hub of laughter, stories, and delicious food. While Hailey is away at college, we keep the tradition alive. She joins us via Facetime when she can. (My mom does too!) When Nate brings home a friend, or Hailey brings her college crew home, our table expands to accommodate everyone. We make sure there's enough food to feed an army (or a group of hungry college students), and we welcome them with open arms. It's a beautiful sight to see new faces mingling with familiar ones, creating a sense of belonging and friendship.
The conversations that unfold are pure gold as our dinner table transforms into a stand-up comedy club. No topic is off limits, and my husband, Nate, and Evan, in their hilarious ways, never fail to bring a smile to our faces.
But it's not all giggles and guffaws. We also dive into deeper discussions, exploring topics that matter to us. From politics to pop culture, religion, the Bible, books, or movies, we love engaging in thoughtful debates (keeping it civil, with no flying spaghetti noodles). It's a chance for our family to grow intellectually and appreciate different perspectives.
So, my friend, I encourage you to embrace the joy of routine family meals, or even just one day a week if you can make it happen. Remember that Sunday dinner was what started our family culture. Whether it's a quiet evening with just your immediate family or a bustling gathering with college kids in tow, make that time count. Let the stories flow, the laughter burst forth, and the love radiate from every corner. Trust me, you won't regret it.
