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The Narrow Path

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Coffee Talk

One of the most enjoyable traditions here in the Zilkie home is "Coffee Talk".  Yes, it was inspired by the old SNL skit done by Mike Myers back in the late 80s and early 90s.  Anyway, when David was 3 or 4 and Jonathan was about 2 they used to always ask for sips of my coffee when I made it.  Now I am not an everyday coffee drinker, but when I do have some the children always want some.  Now you may think "a child wanting coffee", that is weird.  Well, truth be told the joke in our home was that I like my coffee so my 2 year old can enjoy it...lots of cream and sugar.


Every now and then I would brew some coffee and put a little extra in cups for the boys and instead of just drinking it, I suggested we sit down at the table and talk as we drank our coffee...hence the name "Coffee Talk".  Early on the conversation was pretty simple and repetitious.  Their questions without fail were:
  • What is your favorite color?  
  • What is your favorite animal? 
  • What is your favorite food?


As the years have passed Caroline is now a coffee fan as well and we recently had another good ole' Coffee Talk and it was a blast.  The boys are much more articulate and adding Caroline is always a bonus for any gathering as she is so full of smiles, joy, and life.

Apart from some great memories, there is an important value being developed during our times together over coffee.  I am able to teach our children how to converse, ask good questions, listen to someone speaking in a conversational tone, and more.  If coffee isn't your drink, find one that is.  But in the mean time...give it a try.  I think you will enjoy it.  I know your children will!

4 comments:

Unknown said...

What a fun time it looks like you were having! That is a great challenge especially now with some many families not taking the time to eat together!

The Weissler's said...

I love that you do that with your kids! How fun-look at all of those smiles. I bet my kids would LOVE coffee with cream, sugar, cool whip, sprinkles, you name it. I can't wait to give this a try!

Anonymous said...

That is awesome. I am afraid of what coffee would do to my already hyper little ones, but I guess the point is the togetherness and taking time to talk to one another. Looks like everyone is really enjoying themselves. You really do have some of the best kids. carla b

Becca said...

This is a great story, I love the pictures of your kids and you. They are getting big. I remember when you just had Caroline, hint, she was just a baby when i went on the 2006 "THE CALLING" Retreat with you and the group back when you guys were attending KCC. Anyways, this is a great creative way to bring up conversations with your kids, and it's a great suggestion to others.