As with most things in life, being prepared can make lunchtime (a somewhat dreaded time around here) a pleasant experience. Wouldn't that be nice? Here are a few tips and tricks to make your lunch preparation smooth sailing:

• If you don't mind leftovers, you should make them your new best friend. When I'm making a meal for dinner that I know we love, I double it so we can have leftovers.

• Every single one of these open-faced sandwiches looks delicious, simple, and healthy. I'm especially intrigued by the English muffin with spinach, sliced ham, avocado, lemon juice, and salt & pepper.

• Are your kids sick of the classic PB&J? Pack one of these, and make one for yourself while you're at it.

• Make up a big batch of your favorite soup and freeze it into small portions. When you're in a pinch for lunch, take one out and defrost it in a pan over the stove. It's just as easy as opening a can, but 10 times better.

• These Mason jar salads are both innovative and delicious. Plus, you could create a week's worth of salads in one day. For inspiration and recipes, visit these sites here, here, and here.

Follow some (or all) of these steps and before long, you may be looking forward to lunchtime instead of dreading it. Happy lunch making!