By Mary Emma Allen
So many family happenings take place around the dining
table, leaving us with memories which shape our lives.
My family wonders why I collect these family tables
and enjoy them as three generations gather around for
meals, to do homework, chat over a cup of tea, or work
on crafts and projects.
Many of my "Country Kitchen" columns are written there as I set up my notebook computer at the table
while grandchildren and grand nieces play around me.
Dining Tables in Your Life
Think of the kitchen or dining tables of your childhood,
early married years, and later days when more than one
generation gathered there. These may be tables you have
in your possession now or simply ones you recall in memory.
I never thought tables would be something to collect, to
use in my home today. But as my parents and my husband's
left their homes for smaller abodes or residency in assisted
living homes, the large dining tables were among the possessions
they couldn't take with them.
Between my daughter and myself, we have three kitchen
tables -- one from my childhood and two from my husband's.
Once when asked to write a note to her grandparents about
her favorite visits at their farm, my daughter mentioned gathering
in the kitchen around the large table.
How enjoyable that she now has that table, which she'll use
in her home. The memories of her grandparents' kitchen will
be carried forth to her children and rituals from her childhood
may be experienced throughout the years.
Our Current Table
The dining table we use in our multigenerational household
was the special one my mother-in-law purchased when she
finally could have a more formal dining room
After children were grown. This trestle table was one she
dreamed of for years...one she enjoyed as she entertained
family and friends.
I recall her pleasure in obtaining different table cloths and
placemats for this table, decorating it for various festive
occasions, and entertaining as she hadn't been able when
children were small.
Since we have a dining area large enough for it, and a family
large enough to use it, the table became ours when Mom
moved to a retirement home. Now her great grandchildren
gather round for meals and activities.
We call it Grandma G-G's table and recall the fun times in her
home, highlighted by a 90th surprise birthday party. Family
and friends gathered at this table and others set up inside and
out the house.
Memories of My Childhood
The table from my childhood is well worn and needs much
refinishing. "Why don't you throw it out?" I'm asked.
"It holds too many memories," I answer. "We'll find time to
refinish it and someday I or grandchildren will use it."
Do you have table in your life which tells a story ... whether
from long ago or more recent years? Jot down or record these
memories for future generations and insure your family heritage
will survive.
Mary Emma Allen, (c)2002
me.allen@juno.com
Write
Mary Emma and let her know your thoughts on her story!
Mary Emma Allen has been writing cooking columns for 30
years and has compiled a family cookbook. She's currently
compiling a cookbook/story book, "Tales From a Country
Kitchen." She writes for children and adults and has compiled a
book of children's stories, "Tales of Adventure & Discovery"
along with an accompanying coloring book. Visit her web site
to learn about her books and read more of her articles:
http://www.homepage.fcgnetworks.net/jetent/mea
