• What’s for Dinner: Our Weekly Menu Plan

    https://i0.wp.com/blessingsmultiplied.com//wp-content/uploads/2011/09/4088699532_ae44f04b7dc.jpg?w=960&ssl=1

    Thankful for a long weekend with my family over Memorial Weekend. It’s been a busy weekend, but glad to have some time with all of them.  It was nice, however, it went by too fast.  We did got a lot done and had some fun along the way through the weekend.  Here is our menu plan for the upcoming week:

    Our Weekly Menu Plan

    • Monday (Beef or Pork Entree): Special Event
    • Tuesday (Kid’s Night to Cook):  Homemade Pizza, Salad
    • Wednesday (Chicken or Vegetarian Entree): Special Event
    • Thursday (Pasta or Seafood Entree): Tilapia, Steamed Vegetables
    • Friday, Saturday, & Sunday:  Leftovers, Family Preference, and Hosting

    I have a general pattern I try to follow for my weekly Menu Plan (for example Monday we have a beef or seafood entree and so forth).  It is my goal, at least in the beginning, to have at least the main dish and one side planned.  I will put together the remaining side dishes (veggies / fruits) based on the food items that need to be used up first and compliment the main entree.

    Setting a weekly menu plan helps me utilize my time better, thus freeing up extra time to spend with my family.  On the days that I am working longer hours I can prep the meal in advance so it will be easier to pull together once I am home.  As I go through the menu planning process I will try to share some of our favorite family recipes.  If there is a specific recipe you would like please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate (some recipes are a toss together meal and I do not use any set measurements).

    As a family of four our life can get busy.  What’s for Dinner is our weekly menu planning series and one of the ways to help keep us organized, on schedule, and within budget.  Our family typically eats 6 to 7  dinner meals at home a week.  We do try to go out to eat at least once a month as a special treat.  Breakfasts are eaten at home before work and school, lunches are eaten at work, school, or home, so dinner is our main meal together as a family.  Dinner is our time to reconnect, share, and enjoy being together after a busy day.  Our weekly menu plan covers Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday only because the weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) is our time to spend with family and friends.  The weekends tend to be more spontaneous and my husband (who is the better cook) likes pitching in therefore we keep the menu open for variety.  We use up the leftovers throughout the week for our lunches and on the nights that we are busy or can’t cook.

    Photo by Liz

  • What’s for Dinner: Our Weekly Menu Plan

    https://i0.wp.com/blessingsmultiplied.com//wp-content/uploads/2011/09/4088699532_ae44f04b7dc.jpg?w=960&ssl=1

    It’s another packed full week, but we are looking forward to a three day weekend.  This is the first Memorial Holiday weekend that we have not traveled in quite awhile.  We are hoping to have some fun family time at home plus get some projects done that have been on our list for awhile.  The kids have their last full week of school (and 2 more partial weeks) which is full of homework, tests, and quizzes.  I want to keep the menu simple so we can get a lot done during the week and be prepare for this weekend.  Here is our menu plan for the upcoming week:

    Our Weekly Menu Plan

    • Monday (Beef or Pork Entree): Crockpot Roast, Mash Potatoes
    • Tuesday (Kid’s Night to Cook):  Hamburgers, French Fries
    • Wednesday (Chicken or Vegetarian Entree): Stuffed Chicken Breasts, Garlic Bread
    • Thursday (Pasta or Seafood Entree): Pasta Casserole, Steamed Vegatables
    • Friday, Saturday, & Sunday:  Leftovers, Family Preference, and Hosting

    I have a general pattern I try to follow for my weekly Menu Plan (for example Monday we have a beef or seafood entree and so forth).  It is my goal, at least in the beginning, to have at least the main dish and one side planned.  I will put together the remaining side dishes (veggies / fruits) based on the food items that need to be used up first and compliment the main entree.

    Setting a weekly menu plan helps me utilize my time better, thus freeing up extra time to spend with my family.  On the days that I am working longer hours I can prep the meal in advance so it will be easier to pull together once I am home.  As I go through the menu planning process I will try to share some of our favorite family recipes.  If there is a specific recipe you would like please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate (some recipes are a toss together meal and I do not use any set measurements).

    As a family of four our life can get busy.  What’s for Dinner is our weekly menu planning series and one of the ways to help keep us organized, on schedule, and within budget.  Our family typically eats 6 to 7  dinner meals at home a week.  We do try to go out to eat at least once a month as a special treat.  Breakfasts are eaten at home before work and school, lunches are eaten at work, school, or home, so dinner is our main meal together as a family.  Dinner is our time to reconnect, share, and enjoy being together after a busy day.  Our weekly menu plan covers Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday only because the weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) is our time to spend with family and friends.  The weekends tend to be more spontaneous and my husband (who is the better cook) likes pitching in therefore we keep the menu open for variety.  We use up the leftovers throughout the week for our lunches and on the nights that we are busy or can’t cook.

    Photo by Liz

  • What’s for Dinner: Our Weekly Menu Plan

    https://i0.wp.com/blessingsmultiplied.com//wp-content/uploads/2011/09/4088699532_ae44f04b7dc.jpg?w=960&ssl=1

    It looks like it is going to be another busy week for us.  The kids still have another round of State testing, Jake will be busy at work, and I have a lot that needs to get done and caught up.  Going to try to make it a simple menu simple this week so we can stay on top of everything else that is going on with the family.  Here is our menu plan for the upcoming week:

    Our Weekly Menu Plan

    • Monday (Beef or Pork Entree): Spaghetti & Meatballs, Garlic Bread
    • Tuesday (Kid’s Night to Cook):  Blueberry Pancakes, Bacon
    • Wednesday (Chicken or Vegetarian Entree): Mustard Glazed Chicken, Steamed Vegetables
    • Thursday (Pasta or Seafood Entree): Cube Pork Steak, Fresh Salad
    • Friday, Saturday, & Sunday:  Leftovers, Family Preference, and Hosting

    I have a general pattern I try to follow for my weekly Menu Plan (for example Monday we have a beef or seafood entree and so forth).  It is my goal, at least in the beginning, to have at least the main dish and one side planned.  I will put together the remaining side dishes (veggies / fruits) based on the food items that need to be used up first and compliment the main entree.

    Setting a weekly menu plan helps me utilize my time better, thus freeing up extra time to spend with my family.  On the days that I am working longer hours I can prep the meal in advance so it will be easier to pull together once I am home.  As I go through the menu planning process I will try to share some of our favorite family recipes.  If there is a specific recipe you would like please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate (some recipes are a toss together meal and I do not use any set measurements).

    As a family of four our life can get busy.  What’s for Dinner is our weekly menu planning series and one of the ways to help keep us organized, on schedule, and within budget.  Our family typically eats 6 to 7  dinner meals at home a week.  We do try to go out to eat at least once a month as a special treat.  Breakfasts are eaten at home before work and school, lunches are eaten at work, school, or home, so dinner is our main meal together as a family.  Dinner is our time to reconnect, share, and enjoy being together after a busy day.  Our weekly menu plan covers Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday only because the weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) is our time to spend with family and friends.  The weekends tend to be more spontaneous and my husband (who is the better cook) likes pitching in therefore we keep the menu open for variety.  We use up the leftovers throughout the week for our lunches and on the nights that we are busy or can’t cook.

    Photo by Liz

  • What’s for Dinner: Our Weekly Menu Plan

    https://i0.wp.com/blessingsmultiplied.com//wp-content/uploads/2011/09/4088699532_ae44f04b7dc.jpg?w=960&ssl=1

    The kids have another week State testing, thankfully it is shorter this week though.  While Jake has been busy with work I have been trying to get some items completed around the house and yard.  Everyone pitched in and helped get some stuff done this weekend.  Now we have another big week with a lot to do both during the school / work day and afterwards as well.  Hoping to keep the menu simple so we can get a lot accomplished.  Here is our menu plan for the upcoming week:

    Our Weekly Menu Plan

    • Monday (Beef or Pork Entree): Special Event
    • Tuesday (Kid’s Night to Cook):  French Bread Pizza, Fresh Salad
    • Wednesday (Chicken or Vegetarian Entree): Bacon Wrapped Chicken, Steamed Vegetables
    • Thursday (Pasta or Seafood Entree): Tilapia, Garlic Bread
    • Friday, Saturday, & Sunday:  Leftovers, Family Preference, and Hosting

    I have a general pattern I try to follow for my weekly Menu Plan (for example Monday we have a beef or seafood entree and so forth).  It is my goal, at least in the beginning, to have at least the main dish and one side planned.  I will put together the remaining side dishes (veggies / fruits) based on the food items that need to be used up first and compliment the main entree.

    Setting a weekly menu plan helps me utilize my time better, thus freeing up extra time to spend with my family.  On the days that I am working longer hours I can prep the meal in advance so it will be easier to pull together once I am home.  As I go through the menu planning process I will try to share some of our favorite family recipes.  If there is a specific recipe you would like please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate (some recipes are a toss together meal and I do not use any set measurements).

    As a family of four our life can get busy.  What’s for Dinner is our weekly menu planning series and one of the ways to help keep us organized, on schedule, and within budget.  Our family typically eats 6 to 7  dinner meals at home a week.  We do try to go out to eat at least once a month as a special treat.  Breakfasts are eaten at home before work and school, lunches are eaten at work, school, or home, so dinner is our main meal together as a family.  Dinner is our time to reconnect, share, and enjoy being together after a busy day.  Our weekly menu plan covers Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday only because the weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) is our time to spend with family and friends.  The weekends tend to be more spontaneous and my husband (who is the better cook) likes pitching in therefore we keep the menu open for variety.  We use up the leftovers throughout the week for our lunches and on the nights that we are busy or can’t cook.

    Photo by Liz

  • What’s for Dinner: Our Weekly Menu Plan

    https://i0.wp.com/blessingsmultiplied.com//wp-content/uploads/2011/09/4088699532_ae44f04b7dc.jpg?w=960&ssl=1

    The kids have State testing almost all week so I am sure they will be tired by the end of their school days.  Plus we have several after school activities planned too.  Jake has a full work schedule so there may be some later evenings.  It will most likely be another busy week, but hopefully we’ll be able to pack in some fun stuff as well.  I want to get the menu planned out so we have more time to do the activities that we need or want to accomplish throughout the week. Here is our menu plan for the upcoming week:

    Our Weekly Menu Plan

    • Monday (Beef or Pork Entree): Crockpot Roast, Mash Potatoes
    • Tuesday (Kid’s Night to Cook):  Hamburgers, Fresh Salad
    • Wednesday (Chicken or Vegetarian Entree): Chicken Stir Fry, Vegetables & Rice
    • Thursday (Pasta or Seafood Entree): Pork Chops, Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
    • Friday, Saturday, & Sunday:  Leftovers, Family Preference, and Hosting

    I have a general pattern I try to follow for my weekly Menu Plan (for example Monday we have a beef or seafood entree and so forth).  It is my goal, at least in the beginning, to have at least the main dish and one side planned.  I will put together the remaining side dishes (veggies / fruits) based on the food items that need to be used up first and compliment the main entree.

    Setting a weekly menu plan helps me utilize my time better, thus freeing up extra time to spend with my family.  On the days that I am working longer hours I can prep the meal in advance so it will be easier to pull together once I am home.  As I go through the menu planning process I will try to share some of our favorite family recipes.  If there is a specific recipe you would like please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate (some recipes are a toss together meal and I do not use any set measurements).

    As a family of four our life can get busy.  What’s for Dinner is our weekly menu planning series and one of the ways to help keep us organized, on schedule, and within budget.  Our family typically eats 6 to 7  dinner meals at home a week.  We do try to go out to eat at least once a month as a special treat.  Breakfasts are eaten at home before work and school, lunches are eaten at work, school, or home, so dinner is our main meal together as a family.  Dinner is our time to reconnect, share, and enjoy being together after a busy day.  Our weekly menu plan covers Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday only because the weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) is our time to spend with family and friends.  The weekends tend to be more spontaneous and my husband (who is the better cook) likes pitching in therefore we keep the menu open for variety.  We use up the leftovers throughout the week for our lunches and on the nights that we are busy or can’t cook.

    Photo by Liz

  • What’s for Dinner: Our Weekly Menu Plan

    https://i0.wp.com/blessingsmultiplied.com//wp-content/uploads/2011/09/4088699532_ae44f04b7dc.jpg?w=960&ssl=1

    It was a rainy weekend, which was really good in some ways because we were able to tackle some more of the kids Science Fair projects.  I think we only have a couple little items to complete and it should be done, thankfully.  It has been a long process working with the kids on these projects.  They loved the experiments, but not so much the writing, journaling, putting everything together, etc… I am hoping that the last science project items will be completed early this week so I can get caught up on all the stuff around the house from these last three weeks crazy school items.  Here is our menu plan for the upcoming week:

    Our Weekly Menu Plan

    • Monday (Beef or Pork Entree): Spaghetti & Meatballs, Garlic Bread
    • Tuesday (Kid’s Night to Cook):  Baked Ham, Fresh Salad
    • Wednesday (Chicken or Vegetarian Entree): Curry Chicken, Steamed Vegetables
    • Thursday (Pasta or Seafood Entree): Pasta Casserole, Fresh Fruit
    • Friday, Saturday, & Sunday:  Leftovers, Family Preference, and Hosting

    I have a general pattern I try to follow for my weekly Menu Plan (for example Monday we have a beef or seafood entree and so forth).  It is my goal, at least in the beginning, to have at least the main dish and one side planned.  I will put together the remaining side dishes (veggies / fruits) based on the food items that need to be used up first and compliment the main entree.

    Setting a weekly menu plan helps me utilize my time better, thus freeing up extra time to spend with my family.  On the days that I am working longer hours I can prep the meal in advance so it will be easier to pull together once I am home.  As I go through the menu planning process I will try to share some of our favorite family recipes.  If there is a specific recipe you would like please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate (some recipes are a toss together meal and I do not use any set measurements).

    As a family of four our life can get busy.  What’s for Dinner is our weekly menu planning series and one of the ways to help keep us organized, on schedule, and within budget.  Our family typically eats 6 to 7  dinner meals at home a week.  We do try to go out to eat at least once a month as a special treat.  Breakfasts are eaten at home before work and school, lunches are eaten at work, school, or home, so dinner is our main meal together as a family.  Dinner is our time to reconnect, share, and enjoy being together after a busy day.  Our weekly menu plan covers Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday only because the weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) is our time to spend with family and friends.  The weekends tend to be more spontaneous and my husband (who is the better cook) likes pitching in therefore we keep the menu open for variety.  We use up the leftovers throughout the week for our lunches and on the nights that we are busy or can’t cook.

    Photo by Liz

  • What’s for Dinner: Our Weekly Menu Plan

    https://i0.wp.com/blessingsmultiplied.com//wp-content/uploads/2011/09/4088699532_ae44f04b7dc.jpg?w=960&ssl=1

    Everyone was able to get back into rhythm last week with work and school.  While it was a busy week we managed to squeeze in some fun activities too.  We took the girls to the Zoo for Member Night and went on Date Nights with the kids so that was fun.  On the weekend we worked for several hours on their Science Fair Projects (a new step for us).  This week will be another busy one so I am doing very simple and easy meals.  Also, we have leftover food that needs to be eaten up at the beginning of the week so we don’t waste it so the menu won’t be too exciting.   Here is our menu plan for the upcoming week:

    Our Weekly Menu Plan

    • Monday (Beef or Pork Entree): Leftover Buffet (which is what we call leftover night at our house)
    • Tuesday (Kid’s Night to Cook):  French Bread Pizza, Fresh Salad
    • Wednesday (Chicken or Vegetarian Entree): Mustard Chicken, Steamed Vegetables
    • Thursday (Pasta or Seafood Entree): Baked Salmon, Mixed Vegetables
    • Friday, Saturday, & Sunday:  Leftovers, Family Preference, and Hosting

    I have a general pattern I try to follow for my weekly Menu Plan (for example Monday we have a beef or seafood entree and so forth).  It is my goal, at least in the beginning, to have at least the main dish and one side planned.  I will put together the remaining side dishes (veggies / fruits) based on the food items that need to be used up first and compliment the main entree.

    Setting a weekly menu plan helps me utilize my time better, thus freeing up extra time to spend with my family.  On the days that I am working longer hours I can prep the meal in advance so it will be easier to pull together once I am home.  As I go through the menu planning process I will try to share some of our favorite family recipes.  If there is a specific recipe you would like please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate (some recipes are a toss together meal and I do not use any set measurements).

    As a family of four our life can get busy.  What’s for Dinner is our weekly menu planning series and one of the ways to help keep us organized, on schedule, and within budget.  Our family typically eats 6 to 7  dinner meals at home a week.  We do try to go out to eat at least once a month as a special treat.  Breakfasts are eaten at home before work and school, lunches are eaten at work, school, or home, so dinner is our main meal together as a family.  Dinner is our time to reconnect, share, and enjoy being together after a busy day.  Our weekly menu plan covers Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday only because the weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) is our time to spend with family and friends.  The weekends tend to be more spontaneous and my husband (who is the better cook) likes pitching in therefore we keep the menu open for variety.  We use up the leftovers throughout the week for our lunches and on the nights that we are busy or can’t cook.

    Photo by Liz

  • What’s for Dinner: Our Weekly Menu Plan

    https://i0.wp.com/blessingsmultiplied.com//wp-content/uploads/2011/09/4088699532_ae44f04b7dc.jpg?w=960&ssl=1

    It was wonderful having the kids home last week for Spring Break.  The week went by too fast, but we packed in a lot of fun too.  We celebrated Easter, squeezed in a great trip to Atlanta as a family, and did a lot more.  This week I am trying to get everything back in order, unpacked, and on schedule.  It won’t be long until we will be wrapping on the school year in a few weeks so I have a lot I want to get done before that hits.  Here is our menu plan for the upcoming week:

    Our Weekly Menu Plan

    • Monday (Beef or Pork Entree): Crockpot Roast, Mash Potatoes
    • Tuesday (Kid’s Night to Cook):  Bacon Wrapped Chicken, Steamed Rice
    • Wednesday (Chicken or Vegetarian Entree): Veggie Pasta Bake, Fresh Salad
    • Thursday (Pasta or Seafood Entree):  Broiled Tilapia, Steamed Vegetables
    • Friday, Saturday, & Sunday:  Leftovers, Family Preference, and Hosting

    I have a general pattern I try to follow for my weekly Menu Plan (for example Monday we have a beef or seafood entree and so forth).  It is my goal, at least in the beginning, to have at least the main dish and one side planned.  I will put together the remaining side dishes (veggies / fruits) based on the food items that need to be used up first and compliment the main entree.

    Setting a weekly menu plan helps me utilize my time better, thus freeing up extra time to spend with my family.  On the days that I am working longer hours I can prep the meal in advance so it will be easier to pull together once I am home.  As I go through the menu planning process I will try to share some of our favorite family recipes.  If there is a specific recipe you would like please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate (some recipes are a toss together meal and I do not use any set measurements).

    As a family of four our life can get busy.  What’s for Dinner is our weekly menu planning series and one of the ways to help keep us organized, on schedule, and within budget.  Our family typically eats 6 to 7  dinner meals at home a week.  We do try to go out to eat at least once a month as a special treat.  Breakfasts are eaten at home before work and school, lunches are eaten at work, school, or home, so dinner is our main meal together as a family.  Dinner is our time to reconnect, share, and enjoy being together after a busy day.  Our weekly menu plan covers Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday only because the weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) is our time to spend with family and friends.  The weekends tend to be more spontaneous and my husband (who is the better cook) likes pitching in therefore we keep the menu open for variety.  We use up the leftovers throughout the week for our lunches and on the nights that we are busy or can’t cook.

    Photo by Liz

  • What’s for Dinner: Our Weekly Menu Plan

    https://i0.wp.com/blessingsmultiplied.com//wp-content/uploads/2011/09/4088699532_ae44f04b7dc.jpg?w=960&ssl=1

    The kids are on Spring Break this week so our normal schedule has been slightly altered.  We will be spending time together every day, but we have plenty of activities and fun events we want to fit into our week.  I have kept the menu fairly simple since my main focus is to spend my extra time with the family.  The girls are great pitching in and helping in the kitchen so I am sure we’ll have a great time with a more relaxed evening schedule.  Here is our menu plan for the upcoming week:

    Our Weekly Menu Plan

    • Monday (Beef or Pork Entree): Roast Beef, Green Beans
    • Tuesday (Kid’s Night to Cook):  Hamburgers, Fresh Fruit
    • Wednesday (Chicken or Vegetarian Entree): Grilled Chicken, Steamed Veggies
    • Thursday (Pasta or Seafood Entree):  Salmon Filet, Salad
    • Friday, Saturday, & Sunday:  Leftovers, Family Preference, and Hosting

    I have a general pattern I try to follow for my weekly Menu Plan (for example Monday we have a beef or seafood entree and so forth).  It is my goal, at least in the beginning, to have at least the main dish and one side planned.  I will put together the remaining side dishes (veggies / fruits) based on the food items that need to be used up first and compliment the main entree.

    Setting a weekly menu plan helps me utilize my time better, thus freeing up extra time to spend with my family.  On the days that I am working longer hours I can prep the meal in advance so it will be easier to pull together once I am home.  As I go through the menu planning process I will try to share some of our favorite family recipes.  If there is a specific recipe you would like please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate (some recipes are a toss together meal and I do not use any set measurements).

    As a family of four our life can get busy.  What’s for Dinner is our weekly menu planning series and one of the ways to help keep us organized, on schedule, and within budget.  Our family typically eats 6 to 7  dinner meals at home a week.  We do try to go out to eat at least once a month as a special treat.  Breakfasts are eaten at home before work and school, lunches are eaten at work, school, or home, so dinner is our main meal together as a family.  Dinner is our time to reconnect, share, and enjoy being together after a busy day.  Our weekly menu plan covers Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday only because the weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) is our time to spend with family and friends.  The weekends tend to be more spontaneous and my husband (who is the better cook) likes pitching in therefore we keep the menu open for variety.  We use up the leftovers throughout the week for our lunches and on the nights that we are busy or can’t cook.

    Photo by Liz

  • What’s for Dinner: Our Weekly Menu Plan

    https://i0.wp.com/blessingsmultiplied.com//wp-content/uploads/2011/09/4088699532_ae44f04b7dc.jpg?w=960&ssl=1

    Last week flew by as we recovered from our Florida trip, geared up for our State STEM Competition, and got back into a more normal routine.  This is the last week of school before the kids get out for Spring Break.  Looking forward to having a week to hang out with them.  With that being said it will be a pretty busy week so I want to keep the menu easy so we can get what we need to accomplish done in a timely manner.  Here is our menu plan for the upcoming week:

    Our Weekly Menu Plan

    • Monday (Beef or Pork Entree): Spaghetti & Meatballs, Garlic Bread
    • Tuesday (Kid’s Night to Cook) Special Event
    • Wednesday (Chicken or Vegetarian Entree): Mushroom & Spinach Chicken, Green Beans
    • Thursday (Pasta or Seafood Entree):  Broiled Tilapia, Steamed Vegetables
    • Friday, Saturday, & Sunday:  Leftovers, Family Preference, and Hosting

    I have a general pattern I try to follow for my weekly Menu Plan (for example Monday we have a beef or seafood entree and so forth).  It is my goal, at least in the beginning, to have at least the main dish and one side planned.  I will put together the remaining side dishes (veggies / fruits) based on the food items that need to be used up first and compliment the main entree.

    Setting a weekly menu plan helps me utilize my time better, thus freeing up extra time to spend with my family.  On the days that I am working longer hours I can prep the meal in advance so it will be easier to pull together once I am home.  As I go through the menu planning process I will try to share some of our favorite family recipes.  If there is a specific recipe you would like please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate (some recipes are a toss together meal and I do not use any set measurements).

    As a family of four our life can get busy.  What’s for Dinner is our weekly menu planning series and one of the ways to help keep us organized, on schedule, and within budget.  Our family typically eats 6 to 7  dinner meals at home a week.  We do try to go out to eat at least once a month as a special treat.  Breakfasts are eaten at home before work and school, lunches are eaten at work, school, or home, so dinner is our main meal together as a family.  Dinner is our time to reconnect, share, and enjoy being together after a busy day.  Our weekly menu plan covers Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday only because the weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) is our time to spend with family and friends.  The weekends tend to be more spontaneous and my husband (who is the better cook) likes pitching in therefore we keep the menu open for variety.  We use up the leftovers throughout the week for our lunches and on the nights that we are busy or can’t cook.

    Photo by Liz