The thing is that it actually something that requires forethought. It is work. And I’m not too good with that. Oh I can plan it on paper but actually stocking the pantry and then going so far as to actually cook it? That’s a whole ‘nother story.

But I do enjoy hearing about other’s. It helps me. We also have various members who don’t eat with us often. In fact, it is now a great source of delight when we do all get to eat together for it doesn’t happen often. It’s just part of life though- different seasons see us engaged in different activities.

Each week I write up seven dinners, have a bit of an idea what everyone wants to eat for breakfast (at present it is the six week muffins – and I dare not suggest anything else!) and then write a grocery list from there. It means that I have a quick dinner planned for the hectic days, and I know in advance what it is. I have a few “emergency” dinners standards that the ingredients for are always on hand, and pull one of those out if the day goes all wrong for some reason.

Knowing what we are going to eat in advance also means that (as dh doesn’t eat with us normally) we can cook it for lunch instead of dinner if we are going to be out late in the afternoon, or if everyone is tired, therefor making the evening much easier on both cook and wash-up roster.

Oh, I have battled with menu plans over the years. They are fantastic- time saving, money saving and thought saving… but they do take a little bit of work to get setup and become consistent in using.

I’m finding it is very beneficial. The children appreciate being able to see what is for tea. Aside from that, when they cook their lunch then can look at the menu plan and make sure that they won’t use any ingredients from the menu.

My struggle has not been with setting up the menu plan itself, rather gathering the recipes and having them in easy reach each night and also setting up the shopping list.

But I think I am winning the battle, with some help 😉