A peek inside Sarah's snack cupboard: Part I

When true snackers feel the need, that need is now. True snackers learn to keep snack stuff on hand.

On hand, for me, means stocking a designated cupboard with treats I'm guaranteed to find satisfying. Staples include:

• nuts (almonds, walnuts, peanuts, etc.)
• seeds (pumpkin, sunflower)
• dried fruit (apricots, dates, figs, raisins)
• trail mix (versions of the above items, only combined)
• dark chocolate (bars or chips).

Other items sometimes make guest appearances, such as:

• veggie chips
• dried peas (wasabi flavor)
• chocolate-covered nuts.

While a handful of any one of these is fab on its own, they are highly mix-and-matchable. Huge variety is possible from from just a few such "building block" items.

This is perfect, as I'll nibble to suit my mood. (Fred is less choosy — all that matters is that he has a full bowl and a spoon.)

Of course, one needn't go whole hog. These items can easily be enjoyed in moderation, as toppers to other snacks. For instance, I regularly get sprinkle-happy when eating cereal, fresh fruit, Greek yogurt or frozen yogurt.

More deets to follow, on another day. Snack-a-doodle-doo.