The fact that I can plant a seed and it becomes a flower, share a bit of knowledge and it becomes another’s, smile at someone and receive a smile in return, are to me continual spiritual exercises. – Leo F. Buscaglia
Today was one of those days when events transpire that make you glad to be alive. I was alerted to an incoming message from the electronic leash in my front pocket. When I opened it and read the text, I was informed that I had been given an award of recognition from a fellow food blogger.
I am genuinely humbled (not an easy task according to my wife) to be recognized for the “International Language Series” here on Myhungrytum.com. I had no idea that this project could reach so many people in such a short time.
My goal has been to spread my interest in Global Cuisine and cultures from around the planet to like minded individuals. In the process I have made friends, gotten incredible feedback, relearned history and geography (some anyhow) and gotten to cook with “exotic” ingredients that are a part of every day life in my chosen countries. Most of these things would not have occurred if MyHungryTum did not come to be.
Liren, the multi-talented blogger that honored this blog with the Sunshine Award writes a blog called Kitchen-Worthy.com. She is fairly new to the blogging world just like me. But I think she understands the real reason that we “Bloggers and Foodies” fret, fuss, sweat, toil, cut and burn ourselves, take pictures, do research and ponder proper grammar in order to build a place where we can SHARE our experiences with anyone who bothers to view our work. It is an exercise in giving back. KitchenWorthy certainly gives back with beautifully captured images and well balanced recipes. I am still dying to make your “Fish in Papillote” recipe Liren. Perhaps for dinner tonight?!
On that note, I have been asked to name 12 other Bloggers that have made an impression on me. KitchenWorthy would have been high on my list, but, since Liren has already been given proper dues, I will give her spot to another worthy blogger. I think she will understand…
Drumroll please…………
1. GourmetFury – This was the blog that played the largest role in motivating me to “kick it up a notch”. Great content and dynamic design (to which I still aspire) are fundamental to this site. I heart “Beet n Squash You” as a concept and wish I had more time to participate (maybe when I finish the national dishes 
)I also happen to love Vancouver, the home of this talented writer.
2. SheSimmers Partner in crime to Melody Fury, a fun and talented food blogger in her own right. Additional motivating factor in my desire to move forward with this project.
3. All In Good Food – A fun site with great info on Korean and Japanese food and in particular Bento Boxes, those cute little whole meals beautifully arranged to give visual stimulation as well as to taste good.
4. Shizuoka Gourmet – This blog made me stop and realize that education comes through content. Written by a Frenchman bicycling around Shizuoka Prefecture Japan where he lives and catalogs the complex culinary contributions of the Japanese. A literal library of information. You will be amazed at his incredible posts.
5. Making Good Choices – Nicole is a pleasure to know and a very loyal friend who is doing a great job chronicling her daily life in NYC as a wife, teacher and health food junkie. I enjoy the honest and enthusiastic approach she takes to her life. Thanks Nicole you deserve this…
6. Food Wanderings – When you visit this site, you can almost smell the fresh produce at the farmers market. Vibrant and unique recipes and photos.
7. WeaveThousandFlavors – Care to debunk the myths and really learn about Indian cuisine? Then visit this amazing resource. I can smell the cardamom and cumin right now…Also a global traveller and food explorer after my own heart.
8. What We Chow – There are several reasons this blog has been recognized for greatness. I would recommend you find out why. You may even thank me later…
9. SoCalSustenance – An east coast girl living in California. Clearly Laura has adjusted to the new pace of life. I enjoy her recipes and her real and enthusiastic approach to cooking.
10. Tangled Noodle – Thank you Thank you Thank you! For encouraging me along the way and for writing an awesome blog! BTW she is giving away an Aebleskiver pan (pancakes more or less) on her blog.
11. Ciao Florentina – Deserving of the recognition of sitting beside Rick Bayless and Tyler Florence. Good luck in your continued success, you prove it can be done through a positive attitude and hard work.
12. Global Table – Another blogger with the same type of goal and background that I have. She is cooking a complete meal from every country and her research and information is very worth reading. Great writing and fun blog! Keep up the hard work with that Red Palm Oil….<:)>
And many more…….
To the award winners, please pass this on to your favorite bloggers! Here are the Rules:
1. Put the logo on your blog or within your post
2. Pass the award on to 12 bloggers
3. Link the nominees within your post
4. Let the nominees know they have received this award by commenting on their blog
5. Share the love and link to the person from whom you received this award
Thanks for the inspiration, and pass some sunshine around!
Eric Ackerson is a food writer, blogger and seafood marketing professional. His work takes him to many ports of call around the world. Currently Eric is cooking the national dish of every country on Earth at his blog My Hungry Tum. Eric enjoys travel and says his favorite food cities are Singapore and Vancouver. He lives in Charlotte NC with his wife and two daughters who he says are quickly becoming “foodies” themselves…
