For the Love of Brussels Sprouts

I have been lucky that my children have always been good eaters, no matter what I give them, they have never complained or refused it.  That is, until recently.  Lately Tessie seems to have completely lost her appetite for dinner.  She will take a couple of bites, or sometimes none at all, and then declare she is full and ask to be excused.  Christian will eat, but it soon turns into a game of "how far can I throw my food before anyone notices."  And as soon as Tes declares that she is done, Christian does too, even if he is still shoving food in his mouth.  It has been a bit of a problem.

Nick had a long day today, and I wanted to make him a really hearty meal.  I was pretty sure that my efforts would be wasted on the kids, but my rule is that I don't make special dinner arrangements for them, they eat what we eat.  Even if they don't really eat, I'm trying to take a stand.  I made balsamic glazed pork chops, roasted brussels sprouts, and baked potatoes and onions.  It looked fabulous, and I couldn't wait to dig in.  I made up the kid's plates, and announced dinner was ready.  Both kids started eating with enthusiasm.  I hardly breathed, least I jinx it.  At one point, Tessie looked up and said "These brussels sprouts are delicious!"  She ate everything on her plate, and had a second helping of potatoes.  Christian didn't do much worse, eating all of his meat, and most of his veggies.

I happily served them both ice cream after dinner, making sure to let them know how pleased I was that they ate all their food.  I can't believe that they decided this was the meal that they had to lick their plates for.  I mean, really?  Brussels sprouts?  I think they are delicious now, but there was no way to get me to eat them as a child.  I've decided not to question it further, and just pretend that it's because of my amazing parenting skills.  Either way, a love of vegetables is very beautiful indeed.

Finger lickin' good