The American family at breakfast time. It's the standard morning scenario for every sitcom family from Donna Reed's to Bill Cosby's, but for the Barry Whistler family, that big breakfast happens just on Sunday. The rest of the week Dad is busy at his namesake gallery in Dallas' Deep Ellum, representing such artists as Clyde Connell, Danny Williams, Ann Stautberg, and Jack Mims. "The gallery is still in the growing stage," Barry says, "so it's not like I can leave and let the place run itself." Mom Christy and son Marley are busy five days a week as the fashion coordinator for display at the downtown Neiman Marcus and as a second-grade student at St. John's Episcopal School, respectively.

Most days start with cereal and toast ASAP; then it's off to school, the store, and the gallery. But the seventh day is the Whistler's day of rest. They spend it together simply, starting with the family favorite, Christy's orange pancakes, served with plenty of real maple syrup. (Christy also recommends such variations as chopped nuts in the batter and a topping of strawberry preserves or honey with sour cream). Barry helps set the table and pours the milk and juice. "I don't really do much of the cooking at all," he confesses. Marley, who wants to be a comedian when he grows up, breaks from the comics to break the eggs.

Orange Pancakes
Serves 3 - 4

2 eggs
1/4 cup oil
2 cups whole wheat or white flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 to 2 cups orange juice

Beat eggs with oil until light. Sift dry ingredients together, and add to eggs. Slowly stir in juice until batter is proper consistency, thin but not runny. Fry pancakes on medium-hot griddle.