(photo is from Real Simple, March 2016)

This year we have gotten on a schedule with lunch, trying to save money and eat better.  This was so easy that I made it in the morning before the family got up.  Everyone loved it, so I thought I would pass it on.  If you are a student or  a working person sans family, you might try this b/c it is cheap and easy. It will help you with goals to eat better and not take up a lot of time or lose flavor. I already know parents will love it and it tastes better than store or deli bought.  We grew celery in our garden in Uganda, although I would not be able to get two cups worth.  You can make so many substitutions, so I think it provides a good base.  It so refreshing and flavors are good!

I am calling this tag bonafide lunches which means, it's good flavor, inexpensive and easy to make and you might like to try it.  From time to time, I will pass on anything good.

If you are organized and on a schedule, please ignore the following.

This is for my friend Jessica who said to let her know how it's going with the schedule...

For those who don't schedule and are serendipitous, but need change:  this has worked all year, so I will share.  Last year, we realized we needed a change.  Kids are getting older, and I worked hard, but did fly by the seat of my pants a lot ... There was a lot of unnecessary stress due to lack of organization, even though I work my tail off.  So, we came up with a schedule of breakfast and lunch.  I plan meals on Thursday, I shop on Saturday and  I cook on Monday.  Monday and Friday, family is on their own for breakfast and lunch.  Tuesday, I do waffles or pancakes (not always home made, there is a lot of room here) for breakfast, Wednesday, eggs, Thursday is smoothie day.  Lunch is whatever I made on Monday.  Monday night is dinner with the grandparents and Tuesday we go out.  The rest of the week varies, but I try to plan two meals a week and hopefully leftovers.  As a former teacher, I have been drilled to do routine, routine, routine.  My friend who lived overseas and was raised cross culturally herself, showed me that routines with family life are so key for making memories and to help free up time for other things.  My teenage son said it would never work out, so I was determined to try. I love a good challenge.  So far it has worked out and everyone is encouraged. Unintended consequences include, more free time, when change and crisis comes up, it helps to have a routine and plan already in place which actually keeps the work flowing AND the kids are super grateful all the time!  That is a miracle.  I especially appreciate a place of centering b/c with family work it is always dynamic and that can be so discouraging.  Now, if a health crisis comes up, it is so soothing to say, ok, it's Thursday, I know I have to pull out the cook books and plan and make a list at night.  The structure has been a surprise blessing to the chaos and unexpected that is inevitable in life.