#20 - Why Can't Vegetables Have The Lure of Chocolate?

Parenthood has its challenges.  No mum or dad would ever deny that.  Those who've reared both sexes are very clear about certain differences. Leaving aside the obvious ones,  some attitudes seem common to both.  

What is it about vegetables that on the whole, most kids regard with as much enthusiasm as homework, tidying their rooms or having their hair washed? Vegetables seem innocent enough.  Is it their taste? Their appearance? Or simply the fact that they're urged to eat them on the basis of, 'They're good for you ...?'   

Only in recent months have I learned that my son has never liked cauliflower and apparently it was all too often served as the 'plat de jour.'  Actually, I used to sneak a lot of veg into a purée which he managed to eat.  Provided there was some distraction around to  keep his mind off  what he was actually consuming!

I recall my older grandchild aged about three, being encouraged to eat peas which have always struck me as the most innocent and appea-ling (sorry, couldn't help that!) of vegetables.  She'd slowly and carefully pick three. This was regarded as a triumph on both sides!  However, questioned recently, now age nine, on 'What's your favourite vegetable,' she replied, 'Carrots!'  So bravo to persevering parents.

Though a few days ago asking a visiting four old which veg she liked best, making the happy assumption that she didn't simply detest the lot, she answered, 'Courgettes!'  I think that's definitely gold stars for her mum and dad.  

I can understand some lack of enthusiasm in the veggie tussle.  Unless you've just plucked them from your garden seconds before they vanish into the steaming basket, they can be a tad lack-lustre.  Despite being a vegetarian for forty-eight years, I'm not such a purist as I once was. In fact, on some occasions, if being totally honest, fish look pretty good.

Having written earlier about how plants respond to a kindly voice, where does that put me as I pick and plunder in the vegetable garden?  

No, no, best not go there.  Definitely would be  venturing into what my son calls,  'Overthinking!