I use a sprouting jar and have shoots growing all year round. It's very satisfying and good for you. I like these packets of seeds, and in the past have been successful with mixes even past their sell-by date. (Not the case here, the date on the packet to hand is 12/2013).
I do have one quibble with the Gourmet Mix, however. It's made up of lentils, quinoa and white radishes. The lentils have all sprouted and been eaten, some of the radishes, ditto, but the quinoa seeds are too slow; I'm just about to throw what's left away. I'll try again when it's warmer.