Yes, I had a Flintstones lunchbox, but I don't miss school lunches. Maybe it was just one too many bologna and cheese sandwiches back in my elementary days, or maybe it's because I never really did figure out what was in those things the lunch ladies called hamburgers. I didn't thrill in making lunches for my own kids either. I was not one of those moms who made smiley faces out of sandwiches or who surprised my kids with homemade treats. School lunch was school lunch--take the money or the brown bag...just make sure you don't forget your homework!
Looking back I realize I probably should have done better...It's so easy to include healthy foods in a school lunch. Nothing packs quicker or easier than an apple, banana, or orange that comes in its own "wrapper." Some may find oranges difficult for little fingers to peel, but you can "quarter" them and put them in a plastic sandwich bag, and the kids will find out right away that food is fun. (Admit it--you know you've put an orange peel in your mouth to make the monkey face!) And then there are grapes..so easy to eat and almost like candy if you freeze them ahead...and strawberries that have their own "handle"...And don't forget the veggies. With store-bought dipper cups of peanut butter or ranch dressing, celery sticks and baby carrots take on a whole new meaning.
So this year, make it your back-to-school resolution to include more healthy foods in your kids' lunches. We've got everything you need at
Daisy Mae's Market at
Findlay Market. It will be quick and easy for you...and oh-so-good for them.
Stay Healthy!