Family style

Family style is a formal dinner on Monday and Thursday nights. Dress code is stricter: guys must wear coats and ties (and pants), girls must wear dresses. Unfortunately, girls in this generation don't understand the word "formal". They thing formal = sexy, instead of dressed up, elegant, classy or tasteful. When I think formal, I think I would have to be comfortable wearing it around say, my grandparents. Apparently, some have no shame. But, it's not entirely their fault. Stores don't advertise formal wear with modesty... no wonder the lesson is lost on them.

Aside from what they wear, the tables are set for 10 and students are mixed up thanks to a complex computer generated system that makes sure students don't get placed in the same rotation more than once or twice, that there's an even number of boys and girls, upperclassmen and loweclassmen, etc.

We just started our second rotation, and I LOVE my new group of kids. All of the previous family style dinners made me think "no wonder people hate this!". Half of my group was chatty and exclusive and obnoxiously freshmen-like, always trying to be cooler than the other. The other half (upperclassmen) glared at nothing in silence, or complained and had bad attitudes about everything. It was rough and I couldn't do much to force much change.

This group is awesome. I barely had to "lead" conversation: they asked each other questions about their lives! All of the kids are super friendly and sincerely good natured. There was conversation during the whole hour, and they willingly talked to me too!!  Impressive. I will really enjoy this rotation, even though my ideal family style dinner is with my hubby. I miss you sweetie!