Menu Planning….some weeks I’m really on top of it. Other weeks not so much. My main focus is to keep our kitchen stocked and to have a loose plan so I don’t find myself asking, at five o’clock, “what am I going to make for dinner tonight?” That is just never a good situation to be in.
I have three goals when it comes to Menu Planning.
KISS (Keep It Simple Sister)
Cook Healthy and Balanced Meals
Be Resourceful (Shop Less/Spend Less)
In my attempt to meet my three goals I like to stay organized with a ready to go Weekly Grocery List. (I love me a list and a pre-printed grocery list just makes me happy.) It is such a simple yet time-saving idea.
Thanks to my mom, I created a list of my own years ago. Just like the one she used to use. Only her list was created via a typewriter, which is what I call dedicated organizing! She was and is such a good example for me! (Visit the MWM shop for lots of printables!)
When I designed my list I took into account how I shop a store, my walking path, and then formatted the list accordingly. The items in “ink” are the staples, the things I buy most often/weekly. I circle the items and just jot down the quantities. Then I use the column to check things off as I shop. I have several blank spaces to add in other items. Every week I am also buying different things, so the blank spaces allow for lots of flexibility. Which IS my middle name.
Sometimes I use one sheet for multiple stores and just note the store. Other times I use a separate list for each store if it will make my shopping easier. I generally try to only shop at two different grocery stores once per week. Shopping at fewer stores on a weekly basis saves me not only time, but also money.
Before I sit down to write my list, I plan five to six dinners for the week. I write these in my notebook/planner. Then I do a quick inventory of our cupboards, fridge and pantry. I try hard to think through all of our upcoming events and then shop accordingly. For example if I need a brownie mix for a youth event or special drinks to bring to a dinner I just add these to the extra spaces under the right category. The more time I spend planning ahead the less time I spend having to go back to the store to get one or two things. This gives me more time to do things I enjoy more. 🙂
So tell me, are you like me and write a list? Do you prefer to use your phone or an app? Or are you an off the top of your head kind of shopper?
Happy dinner, breakfast, lunch, snack, dessert…
Linked up with A Bowl Full of Lemons.
