'Food Poor" a New Mission

     Over the summer my husband and I watched a documentary discussing the growing problem of a "food poor" generation growing up. "Food poor" is defined as the inability to afford or have reasonable access to food which provides a healthy diet. According to FeedingAmerica.com last year alone there were 49.1 million Americans living in food insecure households, of these, an estimated 15.8 million were children.
     The welfare system is not the answer. Many of these food insecure/food poor Americans qualify for some level of food assistance (along with other government programs) but either they make to much to qualify for a sum that would allow for a healthy diet, or they have never been taught how to eat healthy (sometimes both). While schools cut corners on meals and poor nutrition training is being taught thru a fast food society, our children suffer in their mental development.
     This blog is my attempt to start a discussion, and set forth an encouragement to struggling families that with some planning, healthy eating habits can be maintained, even for a larger family. My goal is to keep our grocery budget each week at or below $75 for our family of 7, allowing $11 per day for our whole family, cutting most 'convenience' foods and sticking to homegrown, homemade options.

Influenster TLC Vox Box Review!

The TLC Vox Box

This past week I received a Vox Box (box of goodies) to review and share my thoughts on, from Influenster. My box included Avon's ANEW, a coupon voucher for Breyer's new Gelato, A Shell gas card (for discounts at the gas pump-- seriously, who doesn't want that these days!?), a bar of Ivory soap, a pack of Puffs tissues to-go, and Neosporin to go. Now as a Mama, each of these are handy to me in their own right. Puffs are soft yet strong, perfect for all the tiny little noses around my house (5 kids under 7 with allergies, need I say more?) Neosporin to go is terrific for the diaper bag, as I have some adventurous kids in the mix, and there's no telling when the next playground injury may occur, but it never hurts to always be prepared! Breyers gelato for an after park/playground treat, because its a delicious way to cool down! The Avon ANEW wrinkle cream for the wrinkles I have from tending to my 5 kiddos (kidding! I blame lack of sleep!) It goes on smooth and really helps with those pesky wrinkles that have been taking shape near my eyes... The Ivoy soap has many uses today. Upon a quick google search, there are science experiments to be done with a bar (microwave and watch it explode into foam), make your own hand soap or laundry detergent with it, or use it for bath time. After park days, it does wonders cleaning the layer of dirt of my kiddos, leaving them sweet smelling and squeaky clean. :) 

If you haven't heard of Influenster before, but are interested in a chance to review your own Vox Box, send me a message and let me know, including your email address so I can shoot an invite your way! ;)