Each September I am reminded that I have a year ahead of me with 5 days a week of two lunches and four snacks. Yes, 10 lunches and 20 snacks a week. I really just stressed myself out putting it into those terms.
Oh, and they cannot contain nuts of any kind. In our house, peanut butter and jelly and handfuls of almonds are staples so it’s a challenge for me to ditch this during the week for school.
I got a bit re-energized as I revisited my tips from the last couple of years. Moms of littles, I will say that as my kids get older it does get easier. They are less picky and I honestly feel less guilty when their lunches aren’t 100% healthy 100% of the time. Our school doesn’t have a cafeteria (what was I thinking?!) so with money for lunch not being an option, sometimes I give myself a high five just for remembering to pack their snacks and lunches.
I was thinking about the year ahead as I was strolling up and down the aisles of Costco when I came upon an area unfamiliar in the refrigerated section. It was like a force was taking me towards it (or maybe I am just watching too much Star Wars with my seven year old).
It was the Lunchable section.
I’d walked right on past it for years but on this day, it was like they were calling to me. How easy would it be to have a grab and go lunch once in a while for one or both of my kids?
There are likely two types of parents reading this right now. One that is thinking something like, “What’s the hesitation? Do it!” The other may be judging the idea due to a Lunchable perhaps not being the healthiest option.
I quickly remembered I committed to not feeling guilty over not being 100% healthy 100% of the time.
I purchased a 6 pack of Lunchables.
I have zero regrets.
Moms, sometimes we need a break. Even if that tiny break means making one less turkey sandwich a week, we should take it. I really don’t think that an occasional Lunchable is going to do permanent damage to my children. It actually gave me some mommy points with my son when he saw them in the fridge. He can’t wait to dig in.
That is one (of many) back-to-school confessions that I am sure will be happening for me.
What’s your back-to-school mom confession? We’d love to hear!
