Inside Garden from Tomato Containers

Indoor Easy Garden

As my little man and I created these little indoor gardens, I become more excited about summer coming and having him learning about gardening, plants, and growing. 

We were invited to the neighbors for a dinner party and there was no way I was showing up empty handed. I created an easy and DELICIOUS tomato and olive salad that was a HUGE hit. 

I rinsed the cherry tomatoes and realizes I NEEDED to keep these containers for something and it me later to use them as a little terrarium or mini green house.

 

I purchased little violets and used some extra dirt from the backyard. I had little man join me in the backyard to gather the dirt. It had just rained and he wasn't too thrilled with the 'mud' aspect. 

   

Conversation during this activity was all about how plants grow. We got to see the roots of the violets and spent time feeling how small and thin they are. It was cool to talk about how the roots soak up water and nutrients (I related it do plant food) to help the plant grow strong and beautiful. I showed him that trees are plants, too. We discussed plants are large and small but they all have roots. 

 

We have these in the kitchen window. I would love to put them in the play room on their art table however, the dog would love to help redecorate our home with these. :)

 

I love reusing containers. Anything works. Get Creative on your own terms. 

Remember: Every activity is an opportunity to help build your child's vocabulary. Don't worry about talking 'above' there head as long as you connect it to something they already know and can give them a visual. 

Easy Baby Food

I LOVE making my kids baby food! It is so extremely easy! You don't need to be crafty, handy in the kitchen, or have a ton of time. It's great to have a full freezer of healthy goodies!!!

Here's the easiest set up ever: 

1. slice and dice your veggies

2. microwave in a Pampered Chef steamer until tender and cooked through

3. Puree in blender or food processor until smooth

Today, in less than 30 minutes I made 10 -2 oz jars of sweet potatoes, 10 - 2 oz jars of peas, and 11- 4oz sweet potato, apple, banana mixed pouches. 

I love these easy containers to send to school with my infant and as carrying cases for snacks and formula, when necessary. These containers were cheap and easy to clean. Since they are cheap, I don't mind if they get lost at school or not returned to me right away. They do break easily under pressure but the benefits outweigh the cons.

I bought a Freeze Squeeze system this morning and love it so far. I am looking forward to trying reusable storage for my toddler and mid-aged infant.

Thinking about how much our family loves and enjoys Plum Baby pouches, I want to see if this is a better deal than the 10 for $10 at various stores :) 

1 lg sweet potato 1.10

4 med apples 2.50

1 lg banana (paid about a $1 for 4 bananas earlier in the week)

So..... for about $4 made 11 pouches. The system costs about $30 and $17 for 50 extra pouches. 

Doing some extra math the pouches are $.34 a piece and depending of the cost of food each filled pouch will cost about $.65-$.75 each. Saving money for those families who are on the go and want homemade food for their little ones.