1st Day of School!

As the first day of school was approaching, I did a lot of research on what to make for lunch for my 1st Grader. I wanted to make sure that it was something nutritious, delicious and filling enough that it would last her until she got home.

I found the vessel that would hold all of these incredible meals.  We purchased a laptop lunch box from Amazon.com.  We realized that although it was a bit pricey, we wouldn't be using plastic bags or plastic utensils and we'd actually be saving money in the long run.  Plus, it is the perfect size for portioning and keeps things from being crushed or leaking all over.

Next, I had to think of foods that would taste good after being refrigerated over night and stuck in a backpack with an ice pack for a few hours at school.  I made a list of main entrees, veggie sides, fruit sides, grain sides, dairy sides and special treats.  This has already proven helpful.  While making the first of many lunches this year, I relied on my trusty list to help me figure out what sides to add.

Now, I am just waiting for the big smile on my daughter's face when she gets home from the first day of school.  I can't wait to see her reaction to the lunch that was made with a lot of love and a decent amount of planning.

Happy 1st day of school everyone, especially you, Molly!

Here is Molly's 1st lunch!  Veggie sushi with cream cheese, edamame (which does taste good cold), watermelon balls and grapes on plastic (re-usable) lollipop sticks, and de-constructed s'mores which includes a few graham crackers, 2 Hershey's hugs and a few mini marshmallows.