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Gas Prices Are Spiking Again — Here's How to Protect Your Wallet as the Iran Conflict Escalates

  Published July 20, 2026 If it feels like you're filling up more often for the same money lately, you're not imagining it. Oil markets jolted higher to start the week, and Canadian drivers are almost certain to see it at the pump in the next few days. What just happened Brent crude — the global benchmark that drives Canadian gas pricing — jumped nearly 4% on Monday to trade above US$90 a barrel, its highest level since mid-June, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate traded near US$84. The move came after the United States and Iran escalated hostilities over the weekend, including strikes on vessels attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz and an attack on an oil facility in Kuwait. That strait matters enormously to your gas bill: roughly a fifth of the world's oil supply normally passes through it. When shipping through it slows or stalls, traders price in a "risk premium" almost immediately — and that shows up at Canadian pumps within days, not weeks. What it mea...

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Nourishing Bites for Growing Minds: Wholesome and Delicious Kids' Lunches and Snacks - Easy Recipe



Here are three recipes for healthy, affordable, nutritious, and simple kids' lunches and snacks:


1. Veggie Wrap:

Ingredients:

  • Whole wheat tortilla wraps
  • Hummus
  • Sliced cucumbers
  • Sliced bell peppers
  • Shredded carrots
  • Spinach or lettuce leaves

Instructions:

  • Lay out the tortilla wrap on a clean surface.
  • Spread a layer of hummus evenly over the wrap.
  • Layer the sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, shredded carrots, and spinach/lettuce leaves over the hummus.
  • Roll the tortilla tightly, folding in the sides as you go.
  • Cut the wrap into bite-sized pinwheels or leave it as a whole wrap.


2. Fruit Kabobs with Yogurt Dip:

Ingredients:

  • Assorted fresh fruits (e.g., strawberries, grapes, melon chunks, pineapple chunks)
  • Wooden skewers
  • Greek yogurt
  • Honey (optional, for sweetening)

Instructions:

  • Wash and prepare the fruits, cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
  • Thread the fruit pieces onto the wooden skewers in a colorful pattern.
  • In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey for a dipping sauce.
  • Pack the fruit skewers and yogurt dip separately for a fun and nutritious snack.


3. Mini Quinoa Muffins:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup grated zucchini
  • 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, etc.)
  • 1/4 cup diced ham or cooked chicken (optional)
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, grated zucchini, grated cheese, and diced ham/chicken.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Pour the egg mixture over the quinoa mixture and stir until well combined.
  • Spoon the mixture into the mini muffin tin, filling each cup almost to the top.
  • Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the muffins are set and slightly golden.
  • Allow the muffins to cool slightly before removing them from the tin.


Remember to adjust portion sizes and ingredients according to your child's preferences and dietary restrictions. These recipes offer a balance of nutrients and flavors that kids will enjoy while ensuring they get the necessary nutrients for their growth and development.

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