If I’m lazy and tired, I eat Instant Breakfast, because all you have to do is mix.

If I’m grimy, I eat oatmeal, the pastiness seeping into the cracks

Between my teeth, requiring a thorough tooth-brushing later.

If I’m in a rush, I eat a granola bar, even though I hate them.

If I want to have a good day, I eat cereal, because it takes longer.

If I want to get away from the house as fast as I can, I eat breakfast somewhere else,

At a smoothie cafe where the Indian man behind the counter

Knows me by name.

If I feel inspired, I eat pancakes, drenched with warm syrup and powdered sugar

Falling through the kitchen air like snow.

If I feel friendly, I eat at my friends’ house, munching on pop tarts and donuts

So out of place among the organic butter and hummus at home.

If I’m sad, I eat blueberries, bananas, and cherries;

Maybe they will cheer me up.

If I’m angry, I burn the eggs, undercook the bacon, and

Freeze the sausages.

I have yet to try chocolate chip pancakes with whipped cream

I suppose I haven’t been in the right mood yet.