Healthy and inexpensive summertime snacks

It's summertime and it feels like my kids are constantly ready to eat. Don't let them reach for a bag of chips or box of cookies! Here's a list of 10 snacks to stock your fridge and pantry with that are reasonably healthy and inexpensive.


1. Hard boiled eggs
Boil a batch at the start of the week and keep them in a specially marked egg carton.

2. Fresh berry muffins, homemade
Make up a double batch and freeze half for the next week.

3. Fresh fruit
Get whatever is on sale for $0.99/lb. or less

4. Homemade trail mix
Mix together peanuts, granola, dried fruit and whatever else is on sale.
Try letting the kids make up their own "brand" that contains their personal favorites.
Keep in a repurposed pickle jar.

5. Homemade granola
Pretty easy to make.

6. Carrot and celery sticks with ranch dip
Old standby.

7. Cheese
Buy the blocks and cut them yourself. Add lunch meat for a homemade "lunchable".

8. Homemade popsicles
A small investment of a freezer mold. Just add their favorite juice.

9. Popcorn
Cheap, fast, and filling.

10. Pickles
Surprisingly easy to make yourself.

What are your summertime staple snacks?

House Party!

I've applied for two parties at www.HouseParty.com. The first is a Lunchables party and includes coupons for free lunchables, games and activities ideas, party decor, and a gift for each kid. The second is a Hot Wheels Battle Force 5 party. It includes a DVD of the new Hot Wheels show where the kids can see it before it comes on t.v. Also, for each kid who attends a poster, catalog, and Hot Wheels magazine. My boys are so excited! I picked these parties out of all the different ones available thinking I might ease the back to school blues with a back to school party instead.
If you are not familiar with House Party, check it out! A company sponsers a party to put the focus on something cool they want to share. You choose from the many different sponsers and apply for the one that appeals to you. If you are accepted, you receive a goodie package that includes amazing discounts, coupons, and free stuff. You host a party in your home and share your goodies with friends and family. Thousands of these parties are hosted on the same day across the country. You can take part in the House Party community and post pictures of your party. I had a Land O lakes cookie swap party last winter and it was lots of fun! Pick me! Pick me!