Manners Matter - Take 2

So, I posted a few months ago about our formal dinner and teaching our big girl how to properly conduct herself at a formal dining experience.  This is something that we want to do on a semi regular basis, so we decided Valentines season is a great time for a refresher course.

Table scape:

 
I recently received some china that I had inherited, so I figured now was a great time to get it out.  Roses go so well with love.

I always love to get out my china and use it.  I hope that one day my girls will enjoy it as much as I have over the years.  This particular pattern has a raised lace design around the edge with a rose center. 

Menu:

I waited until the last minute to plan my meal and it showed.  T and I went shopping that morning, so we were running all day long to catch up.

first course: tortellini soup

second course: romaine salad with four cheese bread

main course: individual beef wellington and steamed green beans

dessert: cream puffs with chocolate drizzle and fresh strawberries

We have learned that baby K LOVES strawberries.  She saw them on the counter and after feeding 3 of them to her, I had to hide them so we would have enough left for the meal.

Lessons Learned:

We had pretty much gone over the basics at the previous dinner, so this one was reminders and follow up questions.  The question was asked, "what if you have to go to the bathroom?".  Answer: quietly excuse yourself.  Your date should help you with your chair when you leave and when you return, but don't make a scene if he does not.  I often forget how uncouth I am during my everyday meals, so this is a good reminder for me too!

I was encouraged to hear that some friends of our tried this at their home also.  We hope you enjoy it as we have.