As a teacher, I spent time each day planning lessons, modifying lessons, etc. I also spent time planning the coming weeks and planning my assessments and my activities and... well, let's just say that there's alot of planning. You learn when to follow your plans and when to wing it, but I always had a general outline. I was a little skeptical when I first started planning my meals, but the more I thought about it... well, the more it made sense. I planned so much as a teacher, so let's give planning a shot at home.
If you don't already plan your meals, try it- maybe you'll be surprised. I know I was. We all know what's its like to hear "what's for supper tonight?" It's not a problem if I know the answer, otherwise it's kind of annoying. So I found this system, which works for me. It takes me about 15 minutes to make my menu/grocery list. however, I save time & money in the store! with two little boys accompanying my shopping trips - what could be better?
Start here:
what's in my pantry?
I try to make at least one meal a week from things I already have at home in my pantry, freezer, etc.
what's on sale?
Shop your ads. We get the grocery store fliers delivered to our house in the mail for free, but you can always access your fav stores online or on your smartphone. You can generally find awesome deals on fresh chicken or hamburger, etc. Last week, I bought a ham for only .79 / lb because of Easter.
do I have any coupons?
Combining coupons with sales makes me smile! =)
what can I make?
I'm currently compiling a list of my favorite recipes (and where I can find them!) and sorting the list by main ingredient so I can easily look at recipes that would include my sale items. As I'm making my menu, I write down what items I'll need to buy at the store. If you shop multiple stores for your groceries, you probably want to have a list for each store. I usually make one list to start and then can further separate it if needed. Or if you only want to use one list, start items from one store at the top and items for a second store at the bottom.
any tips?
Don't be afraid to deviate. If I wrote down tacos on Tuesday, but it just doesn't sound good - I just switch my menu around. I also leave one night a week for leftovers. Take into consideration what your family wants to eat... Usually the boys don't care what I make, but every once in a while my hubby has something he's been craving that I can add in.
Check out my menu printable and recipe lists! If you have any additional ideas, feel free to leave a comment! Happy menu planning!
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