Just Because and Even Though — Donna Hopkins

*Deconstructed Breakfast Burrito, July 2025*

Just because my breakfast tasted delicious and felt satisfying and didn’t upset my sensitive GI system. And just because I love supporting a local business. And just because the vendors at the Farmers Market are helpful and kind and don’t mind my taking pictures. And just because I love making things.

And even though I was still in my pajamas. And even though I hadn’t yet brushed my teeth or my hair (who am I kidding, I never brush my hair). And even though I have “real” work to do on my list for today. And even though I worry that more still life images are somehow not enough, somehow too predictable, and too easy. And even though I really should be doing my daily exercises (and I haven’t for days).

I took this picture (and 30 more that were incredibly similar save for small variations in light as the sun peeked over and around and through the trees in my front yard). I had an impulse to take such a photo as I was eating my breakfast. I wanted to thank the fine cook who made the salsa and baked the sourdough tortillas so that I could be happy and fed. I wanted to reach out and give her a hug, and taking this photo seemed the next best thing. For a short while, I pretend that I am a product photographer. Except that I do not have a client to please. And this is not a job, so I will not be paid. And the only vision to consider is my own. And I think maybe she will like this picture and she will like knowing that someone appreciates all that she does and all that she is. Because I like it when someone does this for me. I email the picture to her.

It’s not complicated. When we feel loved and cared for, it’s easier to love and care for others. And when we act out, it’s most often because we are sad and hurt, and we feel overwhelmed by that pain. But making something is like a way to silence that alarm. And a really beautiful way to begin this day.