Culinary Appreciation

I have noticed recently that food is tasting better to me than ever before. I'm not sure exactly why. My most educated guess is the lack of sugar and sweetener chemicals in my diet have sharpened my taste buds to the more subtle nuances of the foods I do eat. My second guess is that since I refuse to count calories, food exchanges, carb grams or anthing else and no longer keep a detailed journal of my food intake, I am free to enjoy my eating events without guilt or distraction.

One day I found myself groaning with delight over every bite of a Turkey/Veggie lasagna that I had reheated not just for breakfast but for lunch too.

I already shared the exquisite pleasure I experienced over the Maple Salmon I was served at Koinonia. They also served a Museli bread that was amazing.

I had a similar appreciation for the veggie & cheese omelette I was given at our hotel. Later I was raving about the post-conference celebratory steak dinner complete with sauteed mushrooms.

Perhaps the most surprising is my growing appreciation for fresh fruit. I've always liked fruit but it wasn't my first choice. Lately, I welcome fresh cut fruit with a gusto that I have never felt before. Just a couple days ago I found a plate of pineapple and strawberries left unattended on my dad's desk and my "just one bite" turned into a polishing off of the whole plate. I disposed of the empty dish and forgot to tell him what I had done. I wonder if he even noticed!

This phenomenon has worked in reverse as well. Even though I haven't set clear limits on some less-than-healthy foods like pizza, french fries, or fast food burgers, I have noticed that I have developed an aversion to McDonald's burgers of any kind for the first time ever. I mean, I have gone through extensive periods of abstinence from McDonald's over the years but not because of dislike. Have you ever noticed that you don't really chew and savour fast food burgers? Ususally they are devoured quickly--at least by me! I have noticed too that after a fast food meal, I don't really feel satisfied. Full, yes. Satisfied, no.
 
This could be the start of something...hmmmm...now what to have for breakfast...