So, the "old school" in me came out today as I watched Rachel Ray on television this morning. Her show today was all about teaching a family (Mom, Dad and two children aged 7 & 9, how to cook and eat at home.While interviewing this Mom, she said " I wish I had time to cook, but we both work and the girls are into many activities."
Uh-huh, I thought. Most families today are in the same boat. Then, I actually THOUGHT about what she said. To me, she was saying that she couldn't be bothered to MAKE dinner for her family. That it was easier to just make a phone call or hit the drive through.
While I don't deny that choosing that route is much easier, two things came to mind. First, by eating that way, are you teaching your family the importance of eating right? Are you teaching your children the life skills of cooking? Are you enjoying time together, as a family, for a few minutes in your hectic day?
When our kids were growing up, our household was as crazy as anyone's could be. When the kids were little, it was four of us for dinner every night, and eight of us every other weekend. When Rick's kids moved in, cooking for a crowd was a normal, every day thing.
Yes, Rick and I both had jobs. Yes, the kids were into after school activities. There were days that Rick and I would pass each other on the road while taking or picking up kids from one event or another. BUT, dinner was made for them every night. You were expected to sit down at the table and enjoy a meal with the whole family.
Did it always work out that way? Sure, in a perfect world. But the reality was far from perfect. That being said, the majority of our meals were as a family. They were moments that I now look back on and cherish.
As we all know, children grow up so quickly. One day it's play rehearsals and basketball games. In the blink of an eye, you're at their graduation.
These fleeting moments of simply sharing a home cooked meal, around the table go by in the blink of an eye.
I don't understand why families today don't indulge in this simple practice.
Is it easy? Heck no. Is it "required"? Nope. Is it worth it, in the long run? More than you know.
If you're a fast food/take-out family, try a dinner at home this week. Buy the ingredients. If your children are old enough, enlist their help. Then, sit down and enjoy a meal together. The time spent is more precious than you realize.
