An Early Lunch - Perfectly Seasoned Chili

Yes, it's in the 90° outside and the humidity is enough to create a not so happening white girl 'fro' of my curly hair but this bowl of perfectly seasoned chili just made my breakfast/lunch.  I ate it rather early, it wasn't even 11 am here on the East Coast of United States but that made me think - growing up in Odessa, a hearty meal was often in the morning.  As a matter of fact, when we first arrived in the US it was completely confusing why someone would choose to consume cold cereal for breakfast.  Honestly, it seemed more like a punishment than a reward to be at the time.  Now, many years later - I no longer think that way but a hearty, stick to your ribs kind of meal earlier in the day makes more sense.  Many people don't realize that to cool off your core, heated drinks and food actually do that better then ice cold beverages.  On really hot days our evening meals are usually much lighter because Paulie arrives home from work like a wilted plant that has been dehydrated and in need of replenishing his fluids so it's sometimes that cold cereal that satisfies him the most.  Now that I'm full and satisfied, those two really are separate things - you can be physically full but emotionally and mentally unsatisfied by food - I can return to work and put a nice dent into my To-Do list!  Whatever you end up having for your meal today, I hope it leaves you satiated!