In a kitchen, warm and bright,
Were ingredients, all in sight,
A muffin, milk and mayo too,
Meat and mayonnaise, for a tasty stew.

There were noodles, long and thin,
Mushrooms, fresh and plump within,
And a mousse, so fluffy and light,
All waiting to be cooked just right.

The muffin said, "I'm a sweet delight,
But I can make a savory bite,
Just add some meat and mayo too,
And you'll have a sandwich that's brand new."

The milk said, "I'm cool and creamy,
Perfect with cookies, it's not a dreamy,
Or add me to a noodle dish,
For a creamy sauce that's quite delish."

The mayo said, "I'm the king of dips,
Great on burgers or with chips,
Mix me up with some mushroom bits,
And you'll have a spread that's simply exquisite."

The mousse said, "I'm a fancy treat,
With a texture that's oh so sweet,
But don't forget about me in a rush,
I'm also great in a pasta sauce."

And so the kitchen hummed and stirred,
With flavors, smells and sights absurd,
But in the end, the meal was grand,
Thanks to all the ingredients at hand.

Reflections

1. How did the painter's life change after he found the magic paintbrush?
2. What would you do if you found a magic paintbrush that could bring your drawings to life?
3. Why do you think the greedy emperor wanted to use the magic paintbrush?
4. Do you think the painter made the right decision at the end of the story? Why or why not?
5. What lesson do you think the story is trying to teach us?