Pancakes Are My Weakness.

Pancakes are my weakness, burritos and sushi too. If I had to, say by some weird gastronomical decree, I could eat them each and every day. Fortunately however my daily menu is not so militant. There is plenty of wiggle room. Thus some mornings I scoop cereal from my milk drenched breakfast bowl, while other days start with a muffin, scone, or raisin-toast. Or a serving of yogurt with some freshly sliced fruit. I'm ever versatile when it comes to my first nutrients of the day. As long as there is rich, dark coffee I am all set.

Then it's off into the day until mid-afternoon when it is time once again to feed the machine. You can't let the engine run out of fuel. Give it some cheese for instance, preferably grilled, between two slices of buttered bread slathered in the middle with a hearty brown mustard. Or perhaps it's pasta you prefer. Or maybe fish. Either is fine. But don't forget, you can never go wrong with any combination of rice or beans. I even know a place up the street where you can get a fried chicken taco. Call it the cuisine of southern Mexico. The thing of it is all that really matters is that you take a break in your day to consume some nourishment. That's not too much to ask, is it?

Come evening time the supper hour rolls around. This is a meal best enjoyed amid family and friends. Food for this meal is best served family-style in large bowls that are passed among the gathered. Sharing is a state of grace. Take time among your loved ones. Talk, relax. This is the meal that truly separates us from the beasts.

And what of snacks? By all means indulge. If the Hindus are wrong you only go 'round once. Why not do so while taking every so often an extra slice of pie, or a freshly peeled orange. It's taste is almost of nectar.

There is too another meal celebrated most often on Sundays with mimosas, bloody Marys, or the hair of the dog. Even if you are not imbibing alcohol this is a wonderful meal best served in the company of friends. So sip your coffee and share your New York Times. You know you'll never read the whole thing no matter your determination to do so. The world at large is demanding your attention. There are trips to the big box stores to attend to. And you've got to get home to let out the dog. Not to worry. All in good time.

And while your at it, on your way home, why not pick up some steaks. You know your just dying to break out the grill.