Mackenzie's Rules for High Tea

Every Thursday, my darling mother-in-law (henceforth referred to as M.O.M - my other mom) watches my kids for me. The three of them usually have grand adventures such as trips to the park, the pool or a picnic. During the summers it gives me an entire day off - all to myself. The truest form of luxury when you are a mother is an entire day to yourself.

This summer, I've been spending my Thursdays having High Tea at the local Tea shop with my girlfriend, Jessica - it's a truly Divine tea shop, and she is a wonderful friend. This Thursday was to be no different - except that M.O.M. was not available to watch the kids. Only hubby neglected to tell me this until after I had made plans with my friend - and at 11 pm the night before. SO, as is the custom with motherhood, plans changed. I took them with me to tea. Don't worry, I texted my girlfriend first so there were no surprises.

Now, I should explain that my girlfriend is about to give birth any day - so her tolerance for mischievous children is on the high side at the moment. I should further explain that our favorite tea place, isn't terribly formal. Also, we know the lovely wait staff and owner...so perhaps we are given a little extra leeway which made me feel a little more comfortable bringing them to tea. And thankfully, they have a Children's tea on the menu.

I texted my friend that we were on our way once my kids were buckled in their seats. Getting my kids up, dressed, through the morning routine and into the car is kind of like herding cats - it's best to talk about it after the task is complete. Off we went for the short drive over and like any mother, I used those few moments to remind my children of my behavior expectations and good manners.

We went over saying please and thank you, using inside voices, staying in our seats, keeping our napkins in our lap and our elbows off the table at which point my oldest interrupts
"Except if you are eating a sandwich, right mom?"
I reply in the affirmative.
After what I felt was a thorough review of appropriate behavior for tea, I say "Okay, what are the rules for tea?"
Mackenzie (age 4) says very matter-of-factly "We are not supposed to burp or toot!"
Jack (age 7) "WHAT?!! I'm not going to tea!"
Me "Don't start! Don't even think about starting, Jack"
Mackenzie "I'm not supposed to show my underwear either, am I, mommy?"
Me (stifling a big giggle) "No, honey. You aren't supposed to show your underwear at tea"

So, if ever you need to review the rules for high tea, remember that you aren't supposed to burp or toot and you shouldn't show your underwear. Just in case you weren't clear about that.