When I think of my childhood, I remember spending many happy hours in our dining room. I don’t have many memories of our family eating meals together, unless on special occasions. I guess our parents didn’t live by design, back then. Today, when most parents work 9 to 5, it makes perfect sense to eat dinners together and always at the same time. Where I come from, we followed a lot more relaxed schedule. I had school in the morning and lunch (usually with my grandma) in the afternoon.  The afternoons and evenings were for playing outside with friends, so I didn’t get to spend much time with my parents.  Our dinners were very informal and served upon request. My mom cooked every day, but I don’t remember having to be home for dinner at a specific hour. As I mentioned, I played with my friends, and when I felt hungry, I went home to eat. Life was simple, back then. So, you wonder, why I remember our dining room. What was so special about it?