Get Unplugged!
I was hosting a recent tea party for a five year old celebrating her birthday. The little girls attending the party were so sweet- they all came dressed in little princess outfits and dress up shoes and tea party hats. Yes- I allow children that age to have parties here. So far, fingers crossed, we have not had any broken china tea cups or plates. The kids seem to know when they walk through the door that they are in a special place and they use their very best manners!
What made me sad during this birthday celebration was that fact that both the Mom and Dad hosting the event were texting, checking their e-mails or talking on the phone the entire event. I had to flag Mom down at one point when we were bringing in the tea trays so she would be sure to take pictures. She was in another dining room, talking on the phone during the party.
Sure, there are times when it is necessary to take a call or reach a child. But for your own child's party, plug in to them and pay attention! The party only lasts an hour and a half at the most, and the memories created by watching the little girls in all their finery, delicately sipping tea will soon be replaced with rebellious teen years and angst!
Unfortunately, I have seen this scenario one too many times in my establishment. Taking the time for Afternoon Tea is a special event in my book- one I love to participate in as often as I can and steal some precious time to share with a loved one or dear friend. I wish more of us would turn off our cell phones and get plugged back into life. I think we would be much happier for it- Don't you?
What made me sad during this birthday celebration was that fact that both the Mom and Dad hosting the event were texting, checking their e-mails or talking on the phone the entire event. I had to flag Mom down at one point when we were bringing in the tea trays so she would be sure to take pictures. She was in another dining room, talking on the phone during the party.
Sure, there are times when it is necessary to take a call or reach a child. But for your own child's party, plug in to them and pay attention! The party only lasts an hour and a half at the most, and the memories created by watching the little girls in all their finery, delicately sipping tea will soon be replaced with rebellious teen years and angst!
Unfortunately, I have seen this scenario one too many times in my establishment. Taking the time for Afternoon Tea is a special event in my book- one I love to participate in as often as I can and steal some precious time to share with a loved one or dear friend. I wish more of us would turn off our cell phones and get plugged back into life. I think we would be much happier for it- Don't you?
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