Table Settings

Four years ago the Oklahoma State Fair started a new competition, a table setting competition.  At that time my daughter and I both entered the contest - she in the junior division and I in the senior.  Although we both did very well in the competition that year, we hadn't ever taken/had the time to do it again; however, this year our daughter and our oldest son both decided to enter the contest.

Lauren's table setting theme was "OKLAHOMA".  She placed 2nd in the competition and it was fun watching her use her creative talents as she set the table during the competition.

Zachary's table theme was "A Table Divided"...an OU and OSU table.  He was the only boy in the whole competition, but he didn't mind a bit!  He placed 4th in the competition.

We don't ALWAYS set the table properly at each meal, but when it's a sit-down-family-meal, we do; and when the one of the kids set the table for these meals, I expect it to be set properly.  It may not seem like that big of a deal to many, but to me it's teaching the kids about manners and etiquette.  Manners and etiquette are important in life, but  unfortunately they are not always regarded in high esteem in this day and age.

The goal of good manners and etiquette isn't for one to look good or to impress others.  No.  Not at all.  Good manners and good etiquette show kindness and consideration to others.  So, thinking of it in that way puts it in a Biblical perspective, doesn't it?  By showing kindness and consideration to others, we are putting others before ourselves. 

Just another way to "Shine Like Stars"...

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31

"Do to others as you would have them do to you." Luke 6:31