My WORST experience ever was a Non-Stop ZRH - SFO SwissAir Business Class. The older Gentleman next to me talked to me non-stop, spilled his food all over me, including his wine and kept me up the entire flight.
At least he didn't bark.
My views on this family boarding process are mixed. I've only had two flights recently that have had more than one lap child. Both were around Thanksgiving, and on one flight the families went all the way to the back. I prefer the front, so it's fine with me if they sit back there. It's nice they aren't taking up all the seats in the front. On the other hand, there's more of a chance a crumb cruncher might sit next to you.