It’s always a good sign when I want to take a photograph of something, even if it is only my breakfast, and even better when I want to write about it. Still fighting some persistent flu or virus, I have been using all my energy these last 6 days to keep up with my workload. Creativity on my own behalf has hardly been an issue. Most days, just getting up and moving has been my primary focus. I’m sure you’ve been there.
But this morning I planned on making a hot breakfast and including the most luscious organic strawberries folded in and on top. What you see is a delicious brown rice farina. Yum! I’m not a shill for Bob’s Red Mill, really I’m not, but I do love many of their products, all of which are whole grain. If not organic, they are all non-GMO, and knowing my food is safe and not gene-spliced makes me a happy camper. As for the yes, pricey, organic strawberries, I look at it this way. Although I am all for cooking with produce in season, I’ve come to the conclusion that, as is often true in life, exceptions can be made. On the plus side, berries are phenomenally rich in anti-oxidants. I recently read about a study where women who faithfully ate strawberries 2 times a week actually reduced their risk of cancer. (Blueberries are another powerful anti-oxidant fruit.) The other plus is that because mainstream strawberries are the most heavily pesticide-sprayed fruit in existence, buying organic also buys me peace of mind.
Now before I sign off, take a look at that bowl. It was given to me as a gift by a friend about 14 years ago and is my favorite bowl for hot cereal all fall and winter. It’s the perfect size, has a handle, but most importantly, features the artwork of the so very talented wildlife artist, Marjolein Bastin. I know for some time she had an arrangement with Hallmark, and it was fairly easy to find her wonderful work, now a little harder. I’ve bought her calendars in the past, from which I’ve plucked a print to mat and frame in my kitchen. Her work is so lovely, why not toddle over and take a look? Bastin is a modern day artist whose work is something to emulate.
And so I’ve mused. Isn’t it wonderful how some of the simplest things in life can brighten our day? Good food, friends, inspiring art … it needn’t take much to bring us a bit of happiness and gratitude. Thanks for stopping by and sharing breakfast with me, and may your day be warm and bright!
Thanks for sharing your delightful morning musing with us Jeanne! Firstly, I’m sending warm wishes for a complete and speedy recovery. And next… wow this bowl is incredible. I have always loved her art and still have some blank cards in my ‘card box’ from her Hallmark shelves but really appreciate this link to her own site. You’re so great to support her – artist to artist. Love it!! Oh and leaping back a bit, thanks for the reminder about Bob’s Red Mill. I used to enjoy those products but have gotten out of the habit (out of sight.. you know?) so I’ll now seek out that cereal again. Big comment with big hugs for you my friend! xo Cheers, Gina
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Thanks for the recovery wishes; I can’t wait for this to be gone! Happy to hear you’re another Bastin fan … in looking at her site, I see some Hallmark items, so maybe they’re working together again. I may have to go look. Take care, Gina!
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I absolutely ADORE that bluebird image on your breakfast bowl! Empty it would make me dance!
Feel Better!
I eat 1/4 c dry organic wild blueberries daily, found in bulk department at WF. And snack on a handful occasionally mid-day.
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Thanks, Diane. I know on the bird image – it’s just precious. I truly cherish this bowl. It’s great for soup, too! 🙂
I’m hoping someday there will be a WF in decent driving distance from me.
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Wishing you bright and warm days also! The bird image is darling. Hot breakfast with strawberries, just the thing for it! 🙂
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Hi Meg, Thanks for stopping by – this morning it was Irish oatmeal with raisins, brown sugar and cinnamon. Not that I’m food-oriented or anything. Swinging by your blog to say hello over there … Jeanne
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