August 20, 2024
Do you remember the days when the lunch bell rang, signaling the excitement of discovering the treasures hidden in your lunch box? Join me as I take a trip down memory lane, revisiting some items—some I’d rather forget—and the iconic snacks and treats that fueled my childhood adventures and satisfied my youthful cravings.
Growing up, I preferred packed lunches because anything my mom made was always better than what the school could offer. My favorite thing to find for lunch was any sandwich made on homemade bread. I still enjoy peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to this day. I would buy lunch at school only when they served pizza, Rice Krispies treats, or country-fried steak with mashed potatoes, gravy, and peas.
If I could recreate one school lunch from scratch, it would be that classic rectangle pizza. I’m unsure why it was so good, but I still remember the taste. The ultimate school lunch menu should include all the kids’ favorites to encourage them to eat school lunch. I would include pizza, Chinese food, plenty of fruit options, and grab-and-go snacks that are both tasty and healthy.
My secret tricks for making the ultimate lunchbox meal include preparing homemade Uncrustables that can be frozen for easy grab-and-go meals. I also create homemade Lunchables with items they enjoy. Packing school lunches and meal prepping as adults are similar, as both can save time and money. Buying fresh produce is important to ensure a well-balanced and nutritious meal. And remember, the packaging matters—you eat with your eyes!
I’d love to see biscuits and gravy included in a breakfast box, as they’re amazing any time of day.
Even though we’ve traded our lunch boxes for grown-up alternatives and our tastes have evolved, the nostalgia of those beloved treats still reminds us of the innocence and delight of youth. I hope you can find some classic favorites and discover new tempting treats whenever you visit The Castlewood Senior Living Bistro or Country Kitchen. May you never stop making culinary memories.
The Castlewood Senior Living in Nixa, MO offers independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near Cox Medical Center South and with convenient access to major shopping centers, including Fremont Hills Country Club, Fountain Plaza, Smallin Civil War Cave, 160 Grand Prix Amusement Center, and the 4 X 4 Brewery-Fremont.
