![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/35/2016/01/Bag-Lady-Image_7770236.jpg)
Cooler temperatures this past week which I’m sure many of you are happy with and also some heavy downpours of rain which has been excellent for the gardens. We are lucky compared to some parts of the country though, as many are struggling without water. It must be terrible, especially for the farmers as they watch their crops die! I definitely think we’ll be seeing some huge increases in food prices this year which will affect us all and we’ll be looking for cheaper alternative meal ideas.
Packed school lunches
In the heat of the summer packed lunches can be a real problem as bread goes warm and soggy and sandwiches become totally unappetising! Savoury muffins are a great option, which you can make from scratch or if you are strapped for time buy one of the ready mixes, which are so easy. Make 24 and freeze in twos. Each morning take a packet out of the freezer and by the time first break arrives the muffin will be defrosted.
![Make these delicious savoury muffins for your child's lunchbox.](https://comarochronicle.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/37/2014/01/savoury-muffins-Custom-423x153.jpg)
Another good idea is bacon or mushroom quiches, also easy to make, as well as meatballs. Small packets of peanuts and raisins are another healthy option as is fresh fruit, such as grapes, apples and strawberries. Bananas are an excellent option but sometimes tend to go soggy, especially if overripe, so pack just ripe ones rather.
Always make sure your child has a fruit juice, they will dehydrate very quickly in the hot weather, or even water. Cartons of juice can work out quite expensive so fill your own bottles (plastic) and freeze overnight, taking out just before you leave for school, so the juice will stay cold for longer.
Precious Pals Mobile Dog Grooming
Have you a pooch you send to the dog parlour for grooming? Precious Pals Mobile Dog Grooming is about to make life a whole lot easier as they come to you to groom your dog. Owner Joe Nemethy is a certified groomer and also a dog lover, and I think once you’ve had him to groom your dog, you’ll be extremely happy. The great thing is your dog won’t be stressed being put in a cage in a vehicle carrying other dogs and you’ll be able to accompany your dog while he/ she is groomed.
![Joe Nemethy, owner of Precious Pals Mobile Dog Grooming.](https://comarochronicle.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/37/2016/01/1604kbag-Custom-520x400.jpg)
The mobile van is luxury personified and even boasts its own dog ‘hair’ dryer! So for grooming, bathing, drying, nail clipping and de-shedding of thick coats, phone Joe on 072 876 9853. PS, you won’t be able to miss the colourful van as it arrives at your premises, it’s just so cool!
That’s it for this week. Shop till you drop.
Julie