Most moms reserve bento meals for their kids who are picky eaters, but not mom Ardithee Bobadilla, 32. Since her two daughters are on a school break, Ardithee, who also sells food for a living, channeled her bento making skills for her partner, Butch Papa, who brings baon to work. Apart from being yummy, the food has garnered some attention for its unique designs, particularly the packed lunch Ardithee made when she got annoyed at her husband’s gaming habits.
See for yourself:
In a quick interview with SmartParenting.com.ph through Facebook Messenger, Ardithee shares that she was inspired to create the “demon bento” last June 17, 2020 after seeing a Halloween-themed bento box with creepy faces on it.
“Sabi ko, if ever magalit na naman ako, ganun ipapabaon ko kay mister. E bigla akong nagalit! Hahaha. Kaya nag-try ako kung ano lang available na pwedeng ipang-design sa pagkain niya,” Ardithee shares.
The “demon bento” was made with tapa, boiled eggs, and tomatoes. “Sana ramdam mo ang hagupit ng galit ko,” Ardithee writes jokingly on Facebook. “’Di pa ako nakabili ng nori sheets kundi mas mala demonyitang ardutay yang baon mo. Buti na lang may mala-sungay na bell pepper pa na natira, lol.”
The next day, Ardithee was still annoyed at Butch so she decided to make a “baon serye” featuring another bento design. Take a look:
But even if she’s irritated, it’s apparent that the packed lunches are made with love. And Butch always makes sure to eat it all. “Hindi siya pala-post sa Facebook pero ‘yung dalawang baon niya na mala-‘demonyo’ pinost niya,” Ardithee shares. “Ubos naman raw kaagad ‘yung pagkain niya!”
Mommy’s unique bento meals
So, how did the “bento serye” start? Ardithee explains it was because of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ).
“Sa bank siya [Butch] nag-wo-work. Gamer din kaya lagi akong nagagalit hahaha,” Ardithee explains. “Malapit lang ang work niya sa house, dati nauwi siya para mag-lunch. Pero since nag-ECQ, bawal na siya umuwi or lumabas kapag lunch break, kaya ‘yung mga katrabaho niya, nag-o-order na lang sakin ng packed meals. Sinasabay ko na rin ‘yung food niya.”
Luckily, not all bento meals have terrifying designs. Here are some more of Ardithee’s ‘bento boxes’:
Looking for more bento box inspiration? Click here for easy ideas for beginners!