Looking within myself, I see that I am made of many parts. That’s a quote from the late Pueblo artist Helen Hardin describing one of her paintings of changing women, the mother of Navajo people. I never thought about it this way before, but I am happy to compare myself to that complexity. I am made from rolled grains, oats, barley and rye, as well as quinoa and chia seeds, dried fruit, sometimes cherries, raisins, apricots, dates and seasoned with a little cinnamon and a pinch of salt. This is a mix I have enjoyed on cool mornings, adding hot the hot cereal mix to a mix of water and milk, boiling and then simmering, topping with applesauce and almond butter. It warms my spirit and belly and my the hot cereal powers me through the mornings. I have enjoyed this cereal for the last couple of years, having found the recipe in a magazine. This year I am making it for a few friends whom I hope will enjoy this gift. 

I hope it might warm their mornings and nourish their body and soul. I’ve had fun shopping for the ingredients, and look forward to putting on some Christmas music, music and playing in the kitchen. My family no longer gives gifts among the adults, but I enjoy exchanging gifts each year with a few close friends who are like family. I love putting together their packages all year, I love sending something homemade. Hope this gift will bring some joy and comfort and good nutrition. May it fill my friends homes with the aroma of cinnamon and the earthy smell of grains cooking. May it fill their bellies and give them strength through their mornings. May I let them know how much I love them and cherish our friendship. Since we live far apart, I hope this gift will nurture them as their friendship nurtures me.