The Mom Trumps the Lunchlady

I was volunteering at Maddie's school today and accepted Maddie's invitation to join her for lunch. Her classmate, Peter, and I were quietly enjoying a conversation about Lebanese cuisine when the lunchlady got on the microphone and announced that our table was to be punished for poor behavior.

Red faced and pissed off, she shouted that lunch was not a time for conversation. That we should eat quietly and respect others in the cafeteria. Good honk, lady! We had corn today, where'd ya put the cobs???

The kids dropped their trays at the dirty tray counter and had to miss 5 minutes of recess with their heads down on the table. Undaunted by the possible repercussions of a lunchlady scorned, I began to bid farewell to Maddie - with half a notion to excuse her from this undue punishment. The lady walked over and asked me to please respect that the class was in "time out". I smiled and said, "My daughter was polite and respectful throughout lunch. I would appreciate that you not interrupt my time with her. Thanks."

I think I probably could have excused Maddie to recess regardless of the rules... and it really would have ticked off the lunchlady! But, alas, I had a meeting to attend.

Next time... next time...