"You don't make play kitchens for boys"

I was scolded today by an employee at the home improvement store. "You don't make play kitchens for boys. You make play kitchens for little girls; not boys." To which I said, "He'll be a chef! He loves cooking. I'm going to put it next to my oven so that he can cook while I cook." At this the man paused trying to come up with something witty I'm sure. But all he could put together is to repeat his previous statement and to also add that I shouldn't be surprised when I come back in a few months and he's walking like ... I can't finish the sentence because I had already walked far enough away at that point to no longer be able to hear how this man would finish that thought. I'm sure that it is similar to where your imagination can take it.

Part of me feels like maybe I should have said more to dispel this man's ignorant views of gender roles. However, I hate confrontation, so I just walked away politely. Maybe, just maybe, the little I did say about him being a chef and loving to cook made that man think about it just a little bit more. I highly doubt that guy would walk in to a restaurant kitchen and demean a man for being in there. No, sir, cooking does not turn you gay. If my son is gay, it isn't because I do or do not make him a dramatic play kitchen. If my son becomes a chef someday or just enjoys cooking for his friends and/or family, I will be proud that I helped him learn a great skill. I'm sure it will have zero impact on his sexual orientation or gender identity. He is equally interested in cars, trucks, guns, and knives. And, yes, he also plays with baby dolls and stuffed animals.

My husband is a great cook. Probably even better than me. He is the type of cook that can throw random ingredients in as he is cooking. I am definitely a recipe follower. It has always been a fun and romantic thing that we have done together throughout our relationship. We used to have a really narrow kitchen in our first apartment together. The type where really only one person can fit. But we used to cook together there and talk and dream about our someday kitchen. The fact that my husband is capable of and knowledgeable about cooking makes me enjoy cooking for him. I want that for my son. I have experienced the type of 'woman - make me a sandwich' type. It made me feel like less of a person and in no way entice me to want to cook for that person.

So, all in all - here is the piece that I will be turning into a play kitchen with no help from store employee on what fixtures to get. (I will post after pictures when it is complete) And... I love cooking with my hubby. And, my love, I adore that you are an amazing cook.