As soon as I open my eyes breakfast is all I think about. After sleeping for so many hours we should wake up hungry. Our bodies have had ample time to rest and digest the calories & activities from busy days. They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day and I agree! It boosts your energy, revs up your metabolism and tastes really good. I have two kids and I could not imagine them going off to school without the proper fuel to kick-start their day.

Unprocessed ingredients are so important to my family. No matter what our age, budget, or lifestyle – our bodies best process foods that are minimally handled. Growing up I spent a large part of my childhood on an organic dairy farm in the UK. Little did I know this was a crash course in eating fruits and veggies from the earth. Each morning we were treated to freshly laid eggs and milk that had been taken from the cow about 60 minutes prior to my wake-up. What a treat! I wish I had access to such fresh ingredients today!

We do the best we can though. Our fridge is filled with fruits, vegetables, and real, whole food. Fast food around here is carrot sticks and homemade hummus. Minimal efforts can yield big results. Around here we want fit waistlines and energy packed days. No time to feel sluggish and drained, often the result from too much processed food.

I love sharing the benefits of whole foods with the recipes on my blog. A favorite wake up call in our house is this recipe I created, Blackberry Barley Breakfast Bake.

Have you ever had barley for breakfast? I love this grain for its flavor and the way it pops in your mouth. If it is not blackberry season where you live feel free to use any other berry. Experiment with all types of fruit. Banana, figs, strawberries, apple. The sky is the limit!

Enjoy!