Glitter Dot Goodies : Baby Food Adventures

Once finding out we were pregnant I was filled with lofty ideas of waking every morning to make fresh baby food.

Then our perfect little bundle of run-mommy-ragged arrived, and my priorities quickly changed to...

SLEEP!

It will be a cold day in a hot place when I willingly wake up before my child just to make baby food. That being said, I AM making his baby food and am thrilled, and honestly quite amazed, to say that we have not purchased any pre-made baby food for over a month.

This is, of course, made easier by the fact I am blessed to be a SAHM (that's stay at home mom for any of you not up to date on your mommy lingo). Here is the list of mommy made foods Barrett has enjoyed thus far, in his almost 10 months of life.

Oatmeal. OK, I realize this isn't exactly a homemade item, but he loves it, especially when it's mixed with applesauce or breast milk in place of water or juice.

*When fed before bed he always sleeps TTN (Through the night. I know, I know, I'm learning as I go too).

Yogurt. I know they make baby yogurt, and that's great if you want to spend $1+ on one little carton. I have been purchasing plain old regular yogurt and not only does he love it, but I'm not breaking the bank over branding. Serve plain or have some fun and mix in some goodies. Here is what we have tried so far: diced, seedless, water melon; diced, peeled, peaches; diced, peeled and seeded, pear; rice crispy cereal; toasted oats; diced, pealed and seeded, cucumber... Have some fun and see what flavor combinations your little one enjoys!

Applesauce. I purchase the 'no sugar added' kind because my goal is to keep him as far away from extra sugars and salt as possible. In order to make this a finger food I mix in some rice crispy or toasted oat cereal.

Banana. Bananas will naturally separate into three sections. Simply cut the banana in about 1/4 - 1/2 inch slices and separate the three sections. I will often give him some cereal along with the banana and have also mixed with other fruits.

Prunes. I always said I would never become one of those moms who always talk about their child's diapers. Well, when you're struggling with a constipated baby, that changes quickly. While there are other means of success, prunes are, without a doubt, the most effective. This would be great, if my son actually liked prunes. My son, who will gladly place a fist full of cat fur in his mouth, has decided that prunes are on his 'don't like' list. SO! How did I get my little big man to eat his prunes?

5 Prunes

1/2 C Yogurt

1/2 C Applesauce

Place all ingredients in your food processor and let 'er rip until smooth.

Not only did he love this combination, we had results within 24 hours. This recipe made enough for two sittings for my Bear. Obviously, refrigerate your leftovers.

Small Curd Cottage Cheese. Plain or with some fun mix ins, this is a big hit and is easily picked up and shoveled into his two toothed mouth.

Scrambled eggs. One egg, scrambled without salt or pepper and served with some broken up, soft, bread and fruit. Barrett loves being able to sit at the table and eat what mommy and daddy are having. I'd be lying if I told you we didn't get a kick out of too.

You can make as much at a time as you feel you need. I purchased small containers that will fit inside his bottle holder (which helps keep them cool, especially when I put a frozen teether, or two, in along with his food) and I've also used empty baby food jars for transportation. None of these meals take more than 5 minutes to prep and serve.

I hope this has inspired you to be more creative and natural with what you feed your little one.