I have come to the conclusion that in order to realize a savings, typically an initial investment is required. Sounds kind of weird, but it's true. Think about it, your bank savings account won't grow if you don't first make a deposit. A store coupon won't save you any money if you don't first find that coupon and then present it at the store with your purchase. Likewise when we invest time, we often reap the reward of saved time later.
One of the things which I know many moms struggle with is "what's for dinner?". I've "been there, done that" and still do sometimes. However I do know a solution which has been a tremendous time-saver, stress-reliever and blessing in my life. Yes... it just takes a little planning and you can enjoy weeks of worry free meals. No, you don't have to cook them all in one day, but that's a great idea too, if you can muster the energy!
You need to start with a list of meals, grab your favorite recipe books, paper and pen, and don't try to rush it. I like to do 2 weeks at a time so I usually choose about 12 meals, because in our home we can usually count on leftovers a couple of times. You might want to allow for eating out one night o ordering pizza etc. depending on your family.
In your list of meals try to plan for variety based on your family's preferences, it's more fun if you can get each family member to choose at least one meal, then everyone feels involved and they're sure to get at least one thing they like!
Don't choose too many complicated recipes, allow yourself some meals that will be quick and easy on your busiest days. Perhaps try at least one new recipe during each 2 week period. I highly recommend http://www.allrecipes.com/ for recipe searching, there are so many to choose from, be sure to read some of the reviews before you make a new recipe, the experiences of others can really help you decide if you want to try it. If you like to prepare ahead of time and freeze your meals, I love "Fix, Freeze & Feast" by Kati Neville &Lindsay Tkacsik. I got mine from http://www.amazon.com/, the Salisbury Meatballs are my favorite! Having a few meals in the freezer can be a life-saver too. After you've made your list, go back through and check the ingredients for each recipe and make your shopping list for the entire 2 weeks. Be sure to check your pantry as you make the list so you don't miss anything and add other staples that you might be low on. I don't make a lunch or breakfast plan as such because those are easier for me to throw together.
When you're all done, post the list on your refrigerator (or other place that's convenient for you) then each morning choose a meal off the list for that evening, so you'll be able to plan your day and know how much time you need to prepare dinner.
Be sure to save your meal plan at the end of the 2 weeks, after you've done a few of these you'll have a good variety to choose from, you can either just cycle through them again or use them as a starting point for a new plan.
So, it takes a little investment of time but it will save you time every day for 2 weeks and I"m pretty sure you'll spend less on groceries because you'll be making less trips to the store.
Have fun, I'll be getting busy on my meal plan and grocery shopping...tomorrow!
