Letter to my future daughter-in-law

Dear new daughter,

There's something you should know about Kyle: he likes to know what his next meal will be.

He once sent me a text message from seminary so he could plot his after-school snack.

When Kyle was 5 we moved to a new ward, one that did a Fathers and Sons camp-out. Jeff was excited for Kyle to go. He pitched the idea to him, trying to build enthusiasm as he talked of sleeping bags and tents, crickets and stars. What little boy wouldn't be thrilled?

Kyle thought this over carefully. "Well," he wanted to know before committing, "what are they having for breakfast?"

I'm afraid this personality trait is still deeply ingrained. When we're invited to Grandma's, Kyle wants to know what she plans to feed us -- even if the invitation is a week out. Potlucks? The uncertainty messes with his head.

I tried to help him go with the flow, pointing out that I ALWAYS feed him.
Something.
Eventually.

Just because I may not know the details right away doesn't mean it won't happen!

In my more organized moments I found that weekly menus help Kyle as much as they do me. When Kyle was 15 I pledged to keep working really hard to help him cook on his own -- despite the mess. (Oh, my poor kitchen!) Yet, I decided then that I'd gladly put up with marred stovetops, ruined pots and broken dishes if it helped make things easier for you someday. The man must be fed.

It's the quickest way to his heart, you know.

Love,
Mom

P.S. We're having roast chicken and mashed potatoes Sunday. Tell Kyle. Hope you can come.