Making Dinner Happen-Even on Busy Weeknights

My family sits down together, at the dining room table (because that's where all of us can fit), each night for dinner. We always have. I didn't realize that many kids don't have that as a part of their family routine until recently. So as much as Jeff and I do to screw our kids up, at least we're doing a few things well, too.

 I'm not a great cook. In fact, I don't even like to cook. But, I can be organized and follow a recipe. And being organized is a big part of the reason why we succeed in the area of family dinners.

 I used to coupon, but it takes a lot of time, and as a busy mom, time and I are not bffs right now. I have found that I can do the majority of my shopping at Aldi and still save. So, on Sundays after church you will find me running through the aisles at Aldi with my helper, Aiden, getting what we need for the week. That means on Saturday I have to sit down and plan our meals. I take into account what we have on the calendar for the week. Usually, that means we have something each night. Being prepared is KEY! I need to know what I'm making each night and how long the meal takes to prepare. I HATE making the menu plan. (Remember, I don't like to cook.) So, when I can find one done for me I USE IT!

I'm excited to read Living Well, Spending Less after this month (after this month because I'm challenging myself to a 'no spending' month). Check out the Living Well, Spending Less blog. It is where I found the plan to kick busy January weeknights in the tail! Now, I think I probably spent a little more than an hour, but I have TEN main dishes ready to go for those busy weeknights! All I will need to do is pull them out of the freezer.

 

 It was a great way to spend my Sunday afternoon because it means less for me to worry about as we all head back to school (BOO!). So, with some planning ahead, you can enjoy a few minutes with your fam in the evenings!

Worth it, right? :)