Here's the conversation we had on the car ride over to the restaurant:
Mom: Let's go around and have everyone say something they are going to do to demonstrate good manners at the restaurant.
me: The boys will get our chairs. Just kidding. I will put my napkin on my lap.
Nicole: That was MINE!
me: Pick again.
Sarah: I will not burp, or fart, at the table. I will leave to go to the bathroom to fart.
Nicole: I will not yell at Heather when she undoubtedly ruins my evening. Just kidding. I will only speak Mandarin to the Mandarin waiters. They are important, too!
Kelly: I will try not to snap at anyone.
Julie: I will drink with my pinkie off to the side.
Dad: Okay, now. This is for everyone. Not just directed at you, Joseph.
Joseph:.....okay?
Dad: There will be no eating with your mouth full of food. Or half-full!
Dahl: I will say please and thank you.
Everyone immediately began praising him and started singing, "When you want the butter, say please pass the butter. Manners, are never out of styyyyyle!"
Kelly: No one can sing it right!!!
Dad: I hope I will not have to remind anyone about things like singing at the table.
And you know what? He didn't. We were perfectly well-mannered. And the food was delicious. And we were all happy about that. And this was probably the best New Years' Eve I have had in 6 years.
Hulloooo, 2012! :)
