We never sat round the table for tea as both would finish at different times. Son was the main culprit, his girlfriend would want to know if he was going round there & I'd be going mad he was talking to her with mouth full! Never happened at the Christmas table though! There's something about lads & roasts where nothing interrupts the eating of it! He's more civilised these days ;0)
Elina: Maybe because there's more things to hit your son with at Christmas? I've had someone come at with with a carving knife before; I did what I was told.
Dizmo, I think the informality of not sitting around a table may have had something to do with it. To be fair though this particular girlfriend was a little impatient & would ring/ text him to see where he was, so partly her fault too. My biggest irritation though would be him talking to her whilst eating, I used to tell him off about it. He lives abroad now but will be back for Christmas & mums Christmas roast!!
I've never stepped over that line with my mother. Just like I dare not swear in front of her. I think I'd live out a very short life if I swore in front of her!