As we walked in and sat down, we realized we were the only ones there. Literally. The only guests. At first it was odd, but after a bit, it became pleasant and peaceful.
Neither of us felt the need to fill the silence, though we did exchange a bit of conversation. We were just digging into our dinners when out of no where comes screeching and chaos. Screaming. Rowdiness. Laughter. And lots of NO's!
We turn around and in walks a family with four kids all under the age of 8. I laughed, turned and looked at Saint and knew he was not happy. He is not a fan of loud, crazy kids. He was especially not in the mood that night. I am pretty sure that is why he vetoed my first suggestion of Arribas and went for the local family mexican food place instead.
At first, it didn't bother me. After about ten minutes of the kids running around chairs, still screaming; I was starting to get annoyed. It had been so peaceful.
The parents finally got settled, took each of the kids to the bathroom and then ordered their food.
Time passed without either of us realizing that it was back to being quiet. Not peaceful. But it was quiet. I glanced over and every single one of those kids - under the age of 8 - were sitting on their knees on the chairs and talking in inside voices, coloring away.
My jaw dropped.
Now there is a prime example of good parenting. You cannot take the kid out of a kid, but you can teach them to be calm. Like dogs out the door, they are crazy with excitement, but once the newness is over, all is well.
Well done.
