ONE HOUSE—THREE GENERATIONS Series

“What’s for dinner?” I don’t like this question.

• I don’t like to have to figure this out every day. I don’t mind cooking, but the deciding stinks.
• I don’t like to be asked this question by someone walking by while I’m cooking if they voice their opinion by the look on their face.
• I don’t like this question because there’s no way I can please everyone.
• I don’t like this question from fussy eaters, who have a very limited menu—boring.
• I like vegetables more than anyone else in the house.

Now that I got that off my chest, I’ll tell you why I like cooking dinner for our full house.

• There are other people besides me who like vegetables, and some who are learning to like them in certain formats.
• The entries on our menu have expanded, and I can be creative.
• I can add new things to a meal as long as I also have well-liked items.
• It is very satisfying to see people enjoy what you have made.
• Other people, beside me, eat the leftovers.
• We try to sit down together, but some nights call for buffet-style or here are the supplies, make your own.

When we moved into our mixed-generational house together, I agreed to cook, but asked for input on meal ideas. Lynn and I usually take time on the weekend to look at the schedule, decide who’s cooking when, What is the best dinner time each day, and what we will have. We put it on the calendar for everyone to see. This takes the pressure off. And my husband is always willing make a run to the store for needed ingredients.

Cooking for many is more satisfying than cooking for one or two. And eating a meal together is the best!