My Darling Clementine

My Darling Clementine, originally uploaded by susanvg.

The aroma starts as I begin to peel these little orbs of flavour. Clementines combat winter in so many ways. Their bright colour and flavour act like sunshine - a mood enhancer bringing a smile. Packed with vitamin C they arm us with virus fighting tools. They disappear quickly in my house and quickly get added to the shopping list again.

Day 318: Imported Sunshine

Day 318: Imported Sunshine, originally uploaded by susanvg.

As the days get shorter, duller and darker I look to the grocery store for a dose of sunshine. While it would be wonderful to eat local, some things just have to be imported. These clementine oranges from Morocco have always felt like a burst of sunshine to me. Their sunny colour, lively flavour and sweet liquid taste bring a feeling of warmth. Apples speak of crisp fall days but oranges bring that semi-tropical glow.