One of our children delighted in serving.  She got a dress that she used as a uniform.  She donned a pretty scarf on her head for a waitress’ headdress.  I had made her an apron that was just her size which she wore for her serving.  She practiced serving many times and really enjoyed it.

So one night, for fun, we made a little restaurant.  We set up the card table in our living room. The change of place made the occasion more memorable than eating in our kitchen.  We spread it with a tablecloth, silverware and napkins.  She set water glasses up for us.  I made a sign to hang up in the room.  I named it after myself, it read, “Wendy’s.”

She could not write yet, but she came to our table with pad and pencil in hand to take our orders.  She and I agreed on a menu, so that there would be a choice for the guests at the table. She had the menu memorized.

I wore 2 hats that night.  I played the head cook and a guest.  I had to be a quick change artist.  If she needed help in the kitchen, I would excuse myself to go to powder my nose.  I gave her the help she needed and went to enjoy the restaurant scene.  I don’t recall what we had for supper, but it could have been something easy like french toast or pizza.

We all had fun acting like we were out for supper.

You might enjoy trying this little escapade.  You might even try tipping the waiter or waitress.  I recommend paper plates so no one has to wear the hat of the dishwasher.  Have fun!

photo credit:Wenda Grabau