for those with food questions . . .

some of you newer mothers and mothers to be have asked questions about making henry's food . . . so I decided to write a bit about the subject and maybe answer some questions.

1.) is it hard? no, it's very easy. either steam on the oven range or steam in the microwave. then puree, then pour into trays that look like ice cube trays, then freeze. after frozen, remove from trays and pop in a labelled/dated ziploc bag. that's it!
2.) is it time consuming? yes and no. to make (peel/core, slice, steam, puree and pour into trays) the actual food it's really not that time consuming. Some foods take longer than others (any food you have to peel, pit, and then slice takes longer (peaches, plums, mangoes, etc). also, fresh spinach seems to be a bit time intensive with the washing and removal of stems and it makes so little for all that work). But all in all it's really doesn't take that long. What does take some time is keeping a nice variety and keep well stocked; so in essence, if you get behind and you are making multiple batches, that's when it starts to feel like it takes a while.
3.) how does it compare nutrition wise? it depends on the baby food brand-some have just the food (i.e., peaches) and water listed as the ingredients. others have some different types of preservatives. I am of the opinion that PLENTY of healthy adults today were raised on formula and jarred baby foods, so I in no way turn up my nose at either selection. However, I do experience a sense of pride and a peace of mind knowing that Henry is eating food made at home, with fresh ingredients, no preservatives, and with a touch of his mother's love. That probably sounds cheesy, but it is truthful . . .
4.) is it cheaper than buying jarred foods? Yes. Your average jar/container of baby food is 2-2.5ozs in weight, cost ranges from 45 cents to $1.09 (depending on organic versus non organic). Real life comparison: yesterday I made several batches of food that totalled 96 ounces or 38.4 two and a half ounce portions. If you used an average jarred cost of 65 cents, 38.4ozs would have cost one a total of $24.96 (without tax). I spent $9.70 (including tax; I bought non-organic veggies/fruits). Cost savings? $15.26. You tell me if you think that is a considerable savings . . .
5.) any other benefits? besides those mentioned in my cheesy comments above, you can offer your child a much wider variety of foods if you don't solely rely on gerber or beech nut. hopefully, this will develop the child's palate so that he/she will not be a picky eater, (God willing). henry is often times in the kitchen with me when I am making his food and likes to "be involved" so to speak. he also loves going to the market/grocery store. I know this will one day change, but it's sweet right now.

bottom line, if you are considering doing this for your little one, please do not be intimidated about the additional amount of time and planning it takes. At the very least, give it a try. You CAN do it and enjoy it! If you don't like it or it doesn't work for your schedule, then you can always stop. Good luck!