Play with your food

I've never had a problem eating food, but it seems, lately, that Rosie does.  She loves food, but can sometimes be a little picky.  She usually ends up liking new foods, but it's like pulling teeth to get her to give them a chance!  She is also known for eating a few bites of food and getting distracted by other things.  It can be frustrating, especially when I know she's hungry.

I read a few blogs where the moms are making bento lunches for their kiddos.  I've always thought they were so cute, but they seemed so time consuming.

What is a bento you ask?  Well, simply put, it's a Japanese word for boxed lunch.  They usually contain fun, healthy options with a variety of different types of foods in small amounts.  They are known for containing lots of different flavors, colors and textures.  Lot's of moms go nuts with themes and they are adorable.  Here are some really cute examples I found on Pinterest:

Source: Pinterest

Source http://bento-logy.blogspot.com 

Source: www.alphamom.com

I know I won't have time to make those awesome lunches, but they definitely inspired me to try new things to make lunch more appealing to both of the girls.  Here are a few I've tried out the last few days...

 Day 1- cheddar cheese stars, cut up string cheese, steamed broccoli, 

vegetarian lunch meat/cheese/ranch dressing/tortilla roll-ups, veggie straws, a few chocolate chips 

 Day 2- carrots with ranch dip, steamed peas, cheddar cheese flowers, blueberries, 

vegetarian chicken nuggets, graham crackers

Veggie hotdog, string cheese, steamed green beans, peanut butter crackers, apples with caramel

For the most part, Rosie's been eating a lot better.  Who knew that using a flower cookie cutter to cut her pb&j sandwich would make such a difference.  Kiki's always a pretty good eater, but she's been eating more, too.  I've had a lot of fun planning them, so it's a win/win.  I'm excited to do more research and get better at making them.  Just thought I would share my new "hobby".  Have you had success with bentos?  Would love to have your ideas!