New Year, New You? Nope still the same me, but with different intentions. I'm not big on New Year's Resolutions, I like to set passion goals and determinations on what I'll focus on for the new year. One of the big ones is taking the load off my shoulders of trying to do it all.
Convenience plays a large role in my daily routine. I joke sometimes that my purse (who am I kidding, diaper bag) is a suitcase (well, really my kids suitcase), because it is large and in charge! I just like to feel prepared, don't you? Every morning I "get ready for the day." This means regardless of the day, rain or shine, plans or no plans, I always make an effort to get myself together, because it makes me feel good. That is different for everyone. Do something everyday that makes you feel good. Maybe it's an early morning spin class or a meditation yoga class. By starting your day off right, you're setting the tone for your day, and I promise you, it will be a good one if you make it a good day!
Between our busy daily routines and juggling X, Y and Z (probably more like A-Z) throughout the day, being prepared makes all the difference when it comes to healthy food choices and teaching our children what healthy choices look like. Get them involved and interested in this fun mason jar activity!
I've found that using mason jars to prep food ahead and organize for a couple of days makes a really easy "grab and go" in your own home. Not to mention, your kids will have a blast being involved in the process. If you're like us, we're always looking for a new activity and this one is fun and functional!
Mornings are busy, trust me I get it. We're up early, but between getting myself together, two kids, making breakfast and packing backpacks, I almost always feel like I'm still running out the door! Here's some quick and fun ideas to try - prep a greek yogurt berry bowl in a mason jar and take it to go. For lunch or a snack, layer power veggies in a mason jar with a little dressing on the side. Simple Easy and nutritious!
Your kids will love layering the colors, feeling the textures and building their jar! Put their favorite item on the bottom and even picky eaters will eat more to get to their top choice!
Try them out, take pictures and let us know what you think! Don't forget to get the kids in on the prepping fun!
Breakfast
#1. Morning Glory Bowl
1/2 cup blueberries
1/2 cup strawberries
1/2 cup 0% Greek Yogurt
1/4 cup all natural (gluten-free optional) granola
1 teaspoon pure honey
Directions - Layer ingredients in a mason jar, drizzle honey on top and enjoy.
#2. You're a Peach
1 small peach diced
1/2 cup 0% Greek Yogurt
1/4 cup pistachios
1 teaspoon all natural honey
Directions - Layer all ingredients in mason jar and enjoy.
Veggie Jars
Create your custom jar using a 1/4 cup of each selection -
Here are some ideas, but feel free to have fun and add a theme! Southwestern Jar, Asian Infusion Jar, Kiddie's favorite Jar, so many options, have fun!
*For the kids jars, some items might need to be cooked down to prevent any choking hazards.
Corn
Carrots
Spinach
Broccoli
Sweet Potato
Quinoa
Black Beans
Kidney Beans
Celery
Tomatoes
Lima Beans
Mushrooms
Kale
Arugula
Lettuce
Eggs
Cucumber
Artichoke hearts
Chicken
Turkey
Ham
Cheese Cubes
Dressing:
2 Tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar
2 Tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
1 teaspoon dijon mustard
salt and pepper to taste
Directions - Layer selected veggies in a mason jar and mix in dressing when you're ready to eat and enjoy!
Happy Prepping!
xo - MM