Are the following a few reasons: you do not like cleaning up afterward, you are on the go all of the time, you have a very busy life, you are too tired to cook, and you actually enjoy eating out!!

Well, the above reasons could be eliminated only if you did a little cooking preparation. Most people love home cooked food by a family member even if it is just popping a slice of bread in the toaster and spreading butter and jelly on it.

There is something special about it when food is cooked and prepared at home.  We all have busy lives.  It is not easy going to work and dealing with work stress for the day, then coming home and having to cook for yourself or your family. However it can be done if you put a little preparation in place.

You can use paper plates; however, with a family the plastic plates are probably cheaper if you are on a budget. You do not have to keep purchasing them over and over again. The stoneware plates are excellent but they can break however, they are pretty on the table,  microwavable and last a long time, but you do have to wash them after each meal.

We all have busy lives, we are on the go a lot and sometimes are just down right to tired to cook so, we spend a lot of money eating out.  We stop by fast food places to pick up food for our families.  What are the results of this type of behavior?

Well, fast food does satisfy your hunger at the time and there are times when it is very enjoyable to eat out with your family, but at what cost.

The food in restaurants is commercially prepared for mass production. There is no telling what chemicals, additives and preservatives are added for long term shelf life and to prevent spoilage. Food is cooked in a lot of unhealthy fat. Even when you eat out at an A or B rating restaurants, food cleanliness is not at its best.

I have heard and seen videos from hidden cameras taken of people spitting in food, sneezing, not washing their hands after using the bathroom, urinating in food, etc.

Restaurants do not keep their soft drink fountains clean. These machines grow mold and mildew inside.  Dead insects and rats have been found in uncleaned soft drink dispenser machine.  You may want to think twice when filling your cup up with your favorite soft drink again.   Always purchase the bottle drink or water.  These are reasons why people should get back to cooking home food.  Chances are you are not going to get food poisoning eating at home and other food borne illnesses.

Think about what types of foods your family like to eat. Fruits are always good to keep on hand curbing appetites while you quickly prepare an evening meal. Vegetables cook very quickly, prepared soup mixes are quick and easy to put together.  You can also purchase a juicer and juice any leftover veggie or fruits. Fresh juiced fruits and veggies are great.  Healthy,  healthy, healthy and good.

Meats are packaged where you can just throw them in a crock pot, grill quickly or baked in the oven.  Frying meats, chicken, fish and sea food takes longer to cook due to the preparation of batter that they have to be dipped in. I personally do not eat fried meat, chicken or shrimps anymore because of the excess fat, and batter. I do like these foods grilled, baked or boiled for soups, and cooked well done.

Regardless of how you prepare your meats, even if you fry them, preparation time can be shortened. Just plan ahead.  Make it a priority.  You will save money, and be healthier,

Always purchase the best and healthiest food that you can afford. Remember, this food is going into your body to help you sustain your life for a long time.

Do not think of cooking as a chore even if you are tired; plan your family weekly meals. Make your quick and easy meals healthy and nutritious. You may start with a delicious prepared soup mix or make your own. Try avoiding canned soups .  Keep the basic ingredients and seasonings needed for cooking and baking in your pantry at all times.  Your family will enjoy watching you cook for them in your kitchen. They are learning by watching what you are doing even though you may not think so at the time. These are very impressionable moments will bond you and your family and will help build the character and foundation of your children lives that will linger with them throughout their adult live.

Let’s bring back family cooking at home. It’s wholesome, fun, healthy and nutritious for you and your family.  Do not let it become a dying art.

Author: Eloise Martin