Packing lunches ranks right up there with bedtime routines as one of the least enjoyable tasks of parenting, and I’m sure many can relate. As I contemplate the countless lunches I’ll prepare during my kids’ formative years, I sometimes question my decision to have three children—especially when I’m still half-asleep and haven’t had my morning coffee yet. In those groggy moments, my mind often races with a slew of thoughts about the meal I’m about to create. Here’s a glimpse into that internal monologue:
- Why didn’t I tackle this last night? This would have been so much easier!
- How long has that pack of crackers been lurking in there? sniff Ah, they seem fine.
- Is that slimy film on the turkey slice a sign of spoilage or just a normal turkey thing?
- I wonder—does mustard qualify as a vegetable? Anything yellow should count as half a serving, right?
- They won’t touch the lettuce in their sandwiches. I know they’ll just toss it aside, but I’ll include it anyway because, well, vegetables.
- Mental note: Never let mac and cheese sit overnight in a Thermos. Lesson learned!
- Protein? Check. Carbs? Check. Greens? Check. Pre-packaged cookies that will probably overshadow the healthy stuff? Check.
- Use-by dates, sell-by dates, and best-by dates—are those really just guidelines?
- That dad who crafts his kids’ bento box lunches into masterpieces? Yeah, that’s definitely not me.
- I should strive to be the parent who leaves sweet, handwritten notes in my kids’ lunches. Mine would say: “Dear child, my love for you is immeasurable. Now please eat your lettuce. Love, Mom.”
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Packing lunches may be a mundane task, but it often reflects our love and care for our children. After all, each lunch is filled with nourishment and an underlying message of support.