"That *must* be a pretty big pot then, if Tamen will get his fill," Mira laughed.  Nothing cruel was meant by the remark, but everyone knew Tamen's appetite, and took opportunity to poke good-natured fun at him on occasion.<br/><br/>She was just about to start on her food when Thomas and Tamara decided they'd play with their food rather than finish eating, and she couldn't resist adding to their mother's request by giving them both a stern look.  It didn't last long, because she couldn't quite keep from smiling at their attempt to be charming, but she still felt that as the oldest, she should help out where she could.  "You two heard Mom.  She spent all morning cooking for us, so the least we can do is show her we appreciate it by eating our food instead of playing with it," she said gently but firmly.  "If you two want to play, you can do it when you're finished," she added.  Just then she caught sight of Lars watching from his place across the hearth and flushed, hoping he wouldn't think she was trying to be bossy, or take over her mother's job.  She lowered her eyes to her stew, suddenly shy, and hoping she hadn't overstepped her bounds.