5:30 AM

Moonlight softened by the moisture in the air.

can't see the moon very well, used a flash

I awoke at 5:30 this morning and while waiting for my coffee to finish brewing, I always go out on the porch and embrace the morning forest sounds......raindrops leftover from a midnight shower sliding off the leaves give the sensation of a predawn rain, distant cardinals sending out their morning messages.

There is no snooze button on a cat who wants breakfast.

Speaking of breakfast, try this for a protein-packed start to your day.

Quinoa Breakfast Delight
serves 2

1/2 cup quinoa
1 TBS. organic honey
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 cup blueberries
1 sliced banana
low-fat milk...I use low-fat soy

Combine quinoa, 2/3 cup water in small sauce pan, bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, simmer about 12 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in honey and cinnamon. Divide between 2 bowls and top with milk, sliced banana and blueberries.

4 G fiber, 2 G fat, 6 G protein, 45 g carbs, 2 MG chol.