Would you like some cornbread with blueberries?

This is a question I received today in a phone call with my new business associate with Vital Health, who also used to be a private chef. I have no doubt she is an excellent cook, but I declined her request. She is Israeli and prefers to be very direct in her communication, which works well for me. Here was my response:

"Cornbread with blueberries fails on two points. I was a picky eater as a kid, and even though I've learned to expand my food choices as an adult, there are still many foods that do not interest me. Cornbread primarily fails on texture. I want a texture that is fluffy like actual bread or cake, not gritty. It's just extra carbs without the payoff. Point two is that I'm not opposed to eating blueberries, but I prefer them on their own or paired with other fruits. For example, I would eat a fruit cup of strawberries, blueberries, etc., but I have no interest in blueberries paired with anything else. That creates a weird flavor profile for me."

I thanked her for the offer and politely declined. I also told her that I'm glad she asked me instead of presenting me with cornbread and blueberries as a surprise. I would have to accept the gift (because that's what you do), and then not eat it. Alternatively, I might sample it, knowing I probably wouldn't like it. Then I would either have to pretend I liked it or be honest. At least she saved me all that consternation.