The boys and I had so much fun today. We visited several garage sales, the local farmer's market, and the grandparents! I was delighted to discover "honey sticks". These handmade portable sticks are simply honey enclosed in plastic -see -thru straws which have been sealed at the end. Children (or adults are asked to simply chomp on one end to break open the plastic seal and then suck out the honey. It takes a little effort and coordination, which is perfect. Both kids sucked on their honey sticks and were as happy as can be. Plus, since the honey does NOT pour out of it's stick, my toddler could dump it upside down to his heart's content - without making any mess. Certainly, he could have squeezed that stick purposely and smeared it everywhere had he been naughty - but an innocent child will not 'accidently' create a mess. We managed to enjoy two of them before I decided I was pressing my luck!

Lunch was interesting today. For my O, I warmed up homemade beef jerky sticks on the indoor grill and melted some mozerella cheese on top. I peeled a couple of large carrots and also offered apples on the side. For the A's, I sauteed a little onion, minced garlic with salt. Then I 'rejuventated' some leftover rice noodles (simply a little water back into a small stovetop pan) and added cooked pinto beans along with curry powder. Everybody ate well and I used up leftovers. So here are my tips for the day

(a bit redundant tip I fear, but worth remembering):

Make a week's worth of rice noodles, store in fridge and 'rejuvenate' when needed

Make a week's worth of plain pinto beans in your crockpot overnight.

Make one BIG meat serving you can freeze or keep around for one week.

(meatballs,meatloaf,beef jerky, O friendly chilli, etc.)

Use that bread machine to make A/O friendly breads!

It really helps to plan ahead (and have a can of Shelton's gluten free Turkey Chilli as emergency backup!) Take care, everyone.