One of my favorite moments of the film is when Remy takes a bite of a strawberry. The background scenery fades to black, and a little swirl dances onto the screen to represent how the fruit tastes to him. After that, Remy takes a bite of cheese and another swirl rolls beside his head. But then, Remy takes a bite of each at the same time and the swirls of color explode and twist together on the screen to communicate the power of this new, exciting taste combination that he’s never experienced. From that point forward, Remy is constantly pushing and trying to do and experience new things that will influence his cooking and his life.

I’m thinking of this because I’m bored. I’m in a situation for the next few hours that has me pinned to one spot with nothing but my phone and a spotty (but at least it’s slow) 3G connection.

My first thought was, “This going to be a loooooong, boring day.” But the creative in me smacked the pessimist in me and said, “Then look for ways to make this creative, and fun, and try to stretch yourself a little!”

An impossible task it seemed, until I started taking a closer look around me. I’m in one of the least creative places in the world – a production plant. But as I started looking around I noticed that I’m surrounded not just by cold concrete and unassembled product, but also by tons of unique and interesting textures.

I snapped a few photos that are included here. I just wanted to post to remind you of the fact that there is inspiration all around you, no matter where you are. And if there’s inspiration and texture all around, then you can design. And THAT, my friends, means anyone can cook.