The results and comments so far for the most recent poll question: Do bentos help you save money? are very interesting. (The poll will be open for another week or so, so if you haven't already cast your vote and tell us what you think!) While the majority of you say you either save a lot (39%) or a little (31%) by making bentos, the rest of you are not sure, or think you might be spending more money.

Two very different Japanese bentos, both contest winners, both made with love.

Posting here slowed down this past week, but never fear! Starting on the 2nd, I'll be kicking off a Getting Started With Bento Making series. If you're interested in incorporating bento lunches into your daily life, be sure to tune in.

In 2007, I made a series of resolutions aimed at improving my health and fitness, not to mention losing weight. I can't say I followed through on all of those resolutions, but one thing that did stick was making bento lunches at least a couple of times a week. As I wrote earlier, it has helped me to lose some weight, as well as eat healthier all around. I hope you'll join me as I continue my healthy-bento adventures in 2008!

A reader left a great comment on the last post. I'm quoting part of it here:

But, honestly, the thing I love about bentos is the zen-factor: it makes me excited about eating and I always spend time in the morning really thinking about what I’m putting into my body. It’s very calming. I feel like I spoil myself everyday.

I couldn't agree more with that. Planning bento lunches for yourself makes you feel like you are really taking care of yourself - something we are apt to forget when we are running around conducting Life in general. It's as important, or even more so, than planning and making bentos for your family. It's a way of pampering yourself during the course of your day spiritually as well as physically. Nothing can beat that!