An Update on Food

First, I have to give my most sincere thanks to everyone who commented or e-mailed after my post on Jeff and my cooking- "I Don't Like Your Food." You all gave some great advice and support and I deeply appreciate not feeling alone or misunderstood. You gave some great ideas... and I think you've made a difference. First, my Aunt Kathy sent me a couple of lengthy e-mails. The subject really hit home for her. She could see my grandma in my post. She could also understand from her own perspective and marriage. She gave me a lot of good advice- about food and about relationships. One thing I really loved about her e-mails was that I learned that I get my interest in food from my mom's side of the family. They grew up with my grandfather always having an amazing garden. The kids had to work in the garden- begrudgingly. But you know what? They've all become grown ups who grow at least a few vegetables in their yards. And here I am growing my own vegetable garden, too. My grandma would cook meals that weren't met with much appreciation but that developed a deep love of flavors and variety and vegetables in her children. I remember my grandma and my mom introducing me to lots of different vegetables and helping develop the love I have for them. I've come to this place by heritage and I'm quite proud of that. Second, your comments and my post made an impact on my husband. Tuesday night, he made dinner. Usually, he picks up the kids from school and I rush home and start throwing together dinner in an attempt to have dinner as close to done by the time they walk in the door as possible. It's crazy and chaotic, for sure. Tuesday, I asked if he wanted to make dinner or pick up the kids. He chose make dinner. Asked what I had planned. I had planned an easy night- rotisserrie chicken, Knorr chow mein noodles, veggies, fruit. He decided to go with my menu. And it was good. And I loved that he cooked. And I loved every bite of the meal I didn't have to cook. And I made sure he knew it and Teagan made sure he knew it. I think we've reached a good place. I'm planning more traditional, classic meals with big cooking projects on the weekends when I can (I'm going to make meatloaf on Sunday). I can set aside portions for me to spice up and play with. I'm fine making separate vegetables that are all mine. The exposure to different food is still there for my kids, my husband gets food he feels comfortable with, he will cook sometimes and appreciate what I do... And mealtime can be a happy time again. Because we talked about it and worked it out. Because we got great advice and support. Because we are in this together.