I don’t know about you, but when it comes to eating a nutritious breakfast each morning, I simply can’t start my day without it. There’s something special about the sights, sounds and smells of morning — the coffee, the toast, the eggs, the cereal — that gets my taste buds flowing.

But my love for breakfast goes even further. Studies show that by starting each morning with a healthy breakfast, I’m doing my part to improve my focus, concentration, energy and creativity, both on and off the job. In fact, studies also report that by carefully choosing wholesome ingredients, I’m nourishing my body with just the right amount of essential nutrients or “brain foods” that my body needs.

When I think about breakfast, I can’t help but reflect back to my childhood, when Tony the Tiger (of Frosted Flakes) ruled my household. I can instantly recall the very moment Tony introduced me to the power of breakfast. He lured me out of bed and practically had me begging for a trip to the supermarket. Why? It wasn’t his signature motto, “They’re G-R-R-R-E-A-T!” that fueled me with excitement (although, it helped); his reasons for choosing a morning meal convinced me even more. By choosing to eat breakfast, he promised I would be zapped with a jolt of energy that would allow me to stay focused and receive better grades in school. Better grades? More energy? Needless to say, I couldn’t wait to give it a try (and I’m glad that I did)!

Tony is a unique memory of my childhood that I cherish now as an adult. It’s a moment in time that reminds me of the power and goodness of enjoying a nutritious breakfast. And while I wouldn’t recommend Frosted Flakes as your first-choice, healthy breakfast option (steer towards “brain foods” such as whole grains, low-fat dairy, low-fat protein, fruits and vegetables), keeping breakfast fun and exciting is the best way to cultivate healthy memories and habits that last.