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Saturday, April 3, 2010

Meal Planning 101

Meal planning is something that is super simple to do, I spend MAYBE an hour a week and that includes searching for new recipes that I want to try.
I use an AWESOME program, which is FREE, called Cozi. Cozi is like a family planner. I use the calender to keep track of our meals each day. Also, I create my shopping list on Cozi then I can access my list on my phone. Cozi sends messages to my phone when my bills are due or when I need to remember something. It really helps keep my head on straight! Plus, I sometimes find some cool recipes on their website!

This is an example of a week I planned awhile ago:
Monday - Lemon Roasted Chicken
Tuesday - Beef Stroganoff
Wednesday - Parmesan Chicken Tenders and Oven Baked Fries
Thursday - Pork Chops in the Crock Pot
Friday - Homemade Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Saturday - Go out or leftover
Sunday - Minestrone Soup

I generally pick a vegetable and either rice or something to go along with each meal. I plan my main dish. This helps because I only buy what I need each week, plus a few junk food items - not a lot!
So.. I suggest you try it! If anything, it stops the whole "what are we having for dinner tonight" conversation! Make it work for you!

4 comments:

  1. I do this too...meal planning is a must for me! Makes grocery shopping sooo much easier! I also find I don't waste money on things we don't need. Happy Easter!

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  2. I'm a meal planner as well! Definitely makes life a little easier. Love your blog!! Congrats on your baby girl, she's beautiful!

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  3. Iam going over to Cozi right now. Meal planning is way too hard for me.

    I found you via MBC and am following.

    Follow back at http://jotgiveaways.blogspot.com

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  4. What a great idea. I am going to get married this summer and I am looking forward to using this when I plan my meals for me and my husband. I love all that you do and I am going to be your newest follower! I can't wait to see what your posting next!

    ~Elisabeth

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