dinner ~

We have all been there…the dinner hour has arrived, the family is hungry and you are staring into an “indifferent” pantry with absolutely no idea what you are going to serve for dinner. All of us struggle with preparing meals on a regular basis, and it becomes such a challenge, frustration and stress inducer. There is a solution, and it can be simple…plan ahead. Once it becomes routine to plan your menus and your shopping list, you will wonder how you ever managed before.

Here's how it works ~

1. Set aside time each week to do your menu planning. I usually do it on Sunday. Start your planning by looking at what you currently have in your pantry and fridge...for example...if you have some cream cheese that is almost ready to be tossed…find a recipe that calls for cream cheese. Do this with your pantry foods as well.

2. Write down what you are going to have for dinner each day of the coming week, you could even use a little chalk board or white board in the kitchen. Even if you are going to be eating at Sonic one night before baseball practice, put that down! Don't forget the sides too!

3. Then make your grocery list based on ingredients you will need for your meals from your list. Remember to list everything, even the bacon bits for the salad!

4. Then, get to the store before the first meal is scheduled, and you’re ready to go.

Now, you know what is for supper for the entire week and you know you have the ingredients! Feel free to use some of the same meals weekly…One family I know has Spaghetti every Thursday night! It is always on the grocery list, it is easy, it is loved by all, and it is a family tradition! Your meals do not have to be gourmet or difficult, just prepared for and therefore stress free! Happy Cooking!