In some situations, it seems, eating in a restaurant can be a pleasant experience. Both kids can either quietly eat, while other times complete chaos. It doesn't matter if they are well rested, or falling into the tired "quite" stage. It doesn't matter if I bring them toys to play with or if we put a rush on the food to keep them from getting bored. I have come to believe it is all about the atmosphere.
This past weekend we went out to lunch with Grandma at Subway. She was a bit hesitant about eating in, but Daycen insisted. There was a couple finishing up their meals when we arrived, otherwise, the entire place was quite. (other than the workers who were chattering away) We ordered our Sub, choose a quite spot to eat & hoped for the best.
The only fuss we received was the sudden change in attitude about eating black olives. No wails, no screams, absolutely not problem.
However, this, was not the case when we went out to dinner with my husband a few days later. We arrived at Noodles & Co. mid-afternoon. About two thirds of the tables were taken, bustling & voices circled the small room. We ordered our food, took a seat, & within minutes (I'm talking QUICK service here, with as many bodies in that place, they were not behind one step.) we had platters of delicious food placed before us.
Baby sister took ONE nibble of her macaroni (& cheese) before the fussing began. I tried to console her from her highchair, but it didn't ease her. I allowed her to sit next to me in the booth -- her pouting quieted slightly.
The boys didn't seem to notice.
I offered up my phone to play baby balloons.
One bite. Two bites. Almost Three.
The phone was down, her eyes were wide, & she was crawling up my arm. Her whines began to top the chatter of the other guests around us. I smiled lightly. Yes, I love eating out but not on the expense of someone else being uncomfortable.
So, to go it was.
I had inventory at work that night & the family thought it would be a surprise to meet for for a late night dinner. So, they arrived in pajamas & took me out to a classy fast food restaurant. 7:00 at night. The only guests in the place was a group of four young teenagers, & an older man in his 50's.
Yes! You guessed it. She was PERFECTLY content.
So, if you'd like to invite us out - we have special regulations. These which include; Off times, non-hopping restaurant locations, delicious food that can be quickly packaged to go, & of course the acceptance plans changing at a rapid pace. I'll be honest, eating out with young children is a challenge BUT it's such a treat when all goes well. ♥
2 comments:
Every once in awhile we hit the jackpot of going out to eat with children but most of the time it's just not worth it to pay for such stress, lol.
we don't get to go out to eat often so when we go Lucas is usually really good!
you're kids are beautiful! the food looks delish!
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