Traveling with children

Traveling with kids

In 1967 we took a temporary assignment in NY state. We were traveling by car. Second day on the road. Dinner time came. We were in Albany [state capitol - the assembly was in session]. We stopped at the Holiday Inn for dinner. We were dressed for traveling! The hostess seated our family at the far end of the room by the fireplace. Aunt Juli was seated in a highchair.

Now Dad and uncle Jack had developed a habit of putting their approval on all the restrooms where we visited. [Sort of like Duncan Heinz Recommended restaurants!]

Did I mention that everyone else in the restaurant was dressed in their finest? Get the picture?

Well the boys went to put their stamp on the restroom. About the time they started across the room to return to our table - Aunt Juli dropped a handful of silverware on the metal tray of the highchair. Got everyone's attention. Then your Dad, with his pant down around his ankle, waddling across the room, shouts out "Mom, I can't get my pants zipped!" There was no where to hide :-)

Is there a moral to this story? Yes [ might ask Dad his side ]! When traveling with kids, be flexible, observant, choose least conspicuous table in eating establishments, and try to include a little culture in your dining on the road.
Fast food joints don't qualify as cultural. Besides, you get a chance as a family to sit down together, say grace and enjoy being waited on. [And be sure to explain to them the principal of the tip for the wait person - which I know you have personal experience with.]

Road trips with children helps them gain a vision of the greatness of our country. And be sure to accompany your boys under 7 to the restroom :-)