Our 9-year-old son Sam is a notoriously picky eater.  Oh, he eats stuff, it’s just that he actually picks it apart.  Prior to consumption, each meal is broken down into its individual components.  It’s very annoying and kind of gross to watch, but we have grown to accept it as “Sam being Sam.”  We live with it, because we love him.

This morning, I baked some pumpkin muffins, which are an Autumn breakfast staple in our home.  Nothing unusual.  Nothing deserving to be picked apart.  In this case however, the picking reached a new level.  He did not just remove the muffin top.  That kind of behavior is understandable and socially acceptable.  He did not break it down into its individual pieces, as would be expected from Sam.  He actually took the time to remove the outer “shell” from the muffin stump.  That’s right, he peeled off the bottom of the muffin.

Staring at him in wonder and disgust, Sam looked at me with a smile and said, “I’m a picky eater.”  Coming up with a snide response, I immediately said, “You’re a…”  My voice trailed off.  I love my son.  The “Conversation Kill Switch” had been used.  Better to not say it, than say something rude.  Set a good example, even if your culinary masterpiece is being dismantled before your very eyes.