Busy Busy...

     So this month has been insanely hectic. Finals, volunteering, field day, kindergarten graduation (which I think, positively, was the cutest thing I have ever seen.. As they stood in the outdoor amphitheater singing to the tune of "New York, New York" "If we made it here we can make it anywhere, see you soon 1st grade, 1st grade!!!..".. But, I digress :) So, I've been a little pressed for time to blog- but here we go...

     So summer is here, the kiddo's are home and it is so easy to want to hit up your local fast food restaurant of choice, or feed them a lunchable for that matter, while you are out and about experiencing beautiful warm days; but with a little planning it is so easy not to fall into this rut- not to mention your wallet will thank you ;). Buying fresh fruit is a great way to get those nutrients in your little ones, however once we become pressed for time, the fruit may sit and go bad because who has time to cut a few slices of watermelon when there are swimming lessons or soccer practice or whatever other lovely activities your kiddos are involved in. So forgive me if this sounds moronically simple, but I know many people are not in the practice of it...*cut the fruit ahead of time*. Whether you prefer a nice big tupperware in the fridge or individual plastic baggies ready for little hands to eat, it will be there, begging to be eaten. Easy. As. Pie.
     Whether you're headed to the pool, the beach or even to the back yard who says you can't still pack their lunches in the summer? Whether you continue your school year routine of making lunch at night or in the  morning, have it ready in the fridge. When lunchtime comes or if you decide to head out for the day, it's there, and you won't be tempted to eat out and eat unhealthy. Plus, I know my daughter likes the fact that she can grab her own lunch box just like during the school year and eat when she's hungry. It may seem like a pain, but it really simplifies things, no last minute trying to decide what to make- it's already done :).
     Trying to think of things to do with your little ones? Try farmer's markets and local farms. Most farms will let you do a tour, you may have to call ahead and plan it but it is a great experience for them to see where food comes from, beyond just the grocery store. You can head to fruit farms near you where you can go and pick your own, and have a really fun experience. Farmer's markets are  a great opportunity to expose them to all sorts of fruits and veggies and they may be more likely to want to try something new when they are surrounded by all the bright colors and different textures.
     If there are local parents out there who are interested in their kids eating habits and what they are served at school, check out Denver Food Revolution on facebook. We can use the page to share ideas and recipes :).