Meals on the Alaskan homestead had particular meaning to the children, for they were one of the few things done in an eventful fashion.  As soon as the plates were set upon the table, 7 hungry children would rush to get a seat.  Mama trained us out of this by saying she would call us when it was ready.  She would then ring the dinner bell which hung on the porch, to playing children who came a-running.  We all had to wash our hands before sitting down.  Food was passed around the table in the same direction and no one was allowed to reach .  No talking was permitted unless Mama or Daddy asked a question.  If anyone complained about the food, he was sent away from the table.  Remarks like, "this looks disgusting" were rewarded with stern punishment.  "If you can't say anything good," warned my parents, "Don't say anything at all."  When we finished our meal, we could not leave the table until we were excused. Usually we could be excused early if we were finished and asked, "May I please be excused?"