Breakfast in Bed: A Kinder, Gentler Alarm Clock

The unmistakable smell of coffee brewing, bacon sizzling, bread toasting, and eggs frying fills the air. The intoxicating aroma makes its way from kitchen to hallway, then into your bedroom, where it coaxes you awake. You stretch, yawn, and consider sliding into your slippers to shuffle to the kitchen to appease your grumbling tummy. Though you really don't want to leave the comfort of your covers, the lure of a hearty breakfast is hard to resist. Well, here's some good news to start your day: breakfast is coming to you. Breakfast in bed truly is one of life's great pleasures. Waking up to a breakfast tray filled with delicious food and drinks is a wonderful way to make you feel special.

Made especially for the occasion, a sturdy breakfast tray (usually supported by legs to keep it elevated) will help keep crumbs and spills off the bed and your lap as you dig into a plate of warm, fluffy pancakes and enjoy a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. It's fun to celebrate a birthday, Mother's Day, Father's Day, or anniversary with breakfast in bed, but you don't need to wait for a special event. With a little planning, it's easy to whip up breakfast in bed any day of the week. After you've decided what to make, do as much prep work as possible in advance.

You can chop meat, vegetables, and herbs for omelets and store them in the fridge. Bake muffins, boil eggs, and slice fresh strawberries, melon, or other fruit the day before. Batter for pancakes, waffles, and crepes can be made ahead of time. Coffee beans can be ground and placed in your coffee maker the night before. You can also get plates, bowls, cups, napkins, and utensils ready to go. If you're pinched for time and end up doing breakfast in bed on the fly, you can still serve a tasty morning treat. Speedy yet satisfying breakfast options include fresh fruit, cereal, oatmeal, yogurt, bagels, croissants, or pastries purchased from your local bakery.

For a lovely finishing touch, put a few fresh flowers in a small vase and place it on the tray along with the food. If you're celebrating Valentine's Day or another special occasion, consider including a greeting card or handwritten note for your loved one. Whether it's a spouse, child, parent, or sibling, the person you're pampering is sure to love the special treatment - and reward you with the same.