Suppertime is the epitome of frustration for wives and mothers all over this great world! We are catering to several different food preferences, we are crunched on time, and up against a plethora of other challenges. I don’t know how many times I’ve related to the Facebook post that says “no one told me the hardest part of being a grown-up was deciding what to make for supper!” I’m pretty sure you can all relate too! Thankfully, my friend Jenni, has come up with a super helpful guide to help you win at meal planning with her new book, “Adventures in Meal Planning“.
Beer & Porkchops – A Delicious Combination! Find out why!
My Attempt at Planning Meals
My attempts at meal planning over the years has been intermittent at best. For many years, it was non-existent and a style at which I would call “winging it”. Well, we all know how that ends up. Lots of frozen pizza, Hamburger Helper, and grilled cheese with tomato soup. Those things get old quickly.
Then, my most successful run was when we came up with some ideas, wrote them down, and usually made them some time during the week…if I had everything in the house! (Yes, you can insert your eyes rolling here). Then, Jenni sent me her book to check out and everything changed!
Adventures in Meal Planning
Before you question Jenni’s validity at writing a book about meal planning, let me introduce you to her! Not only is she a momma of 3 busy girls and a wife, but she is also the face behind The Gingered Whisk food blog!
The first thing I noticed after digging into Jeni’s book is that she breaks it down into 4 easy steps! The first step does take some time as she has you list out your favorite meals. She’s provided 26 different categories for you to list your meals under. Some categories might have a lot of meal options, some might not have any (our meatless meals was empty), and some will have the same dishes. This step really makes you think about the things you make. I dug out recipe books and my recipe box to list out meals. The biggest thing I found was that we often forget about dishes that we really like!
Enjoy an Easy Lunch with Italian Egg Salad
Prepping for the Weeks
The next couple steps is where she has you think about your shopping, time to prepare meal, things that might get in your way of meal planning, and more! She also highlights several different things to keep in mind, recommend things like theme nights, and more! Then, its time to get into the nitty gritty of meal planning.
52 Weeks of Meal Planning
The most helpful Jeni has done in her book is provide 52 weeks of Meal Plans for you to complete. It may sound kind of ridiculous, but without pages to fill out, I would throw the towel in and quit! But, knowing I have the weeks to complete, keeps me focused. But, she doesn’t just have a spot for you to fill in with what you plan on making, but also questions to answer to help you focus your planning!
Check out My Favorite Gluten-Free Eats
Give the Gift of Meal Planning
If you know a busy mom or wife, one who struggles with what to make every night, or just one that can use a little organization in her life, send them a copy of “Adventures in Meal Planning“! While you’re at it, give yourself a copy to and don’t stress about meal planning again!
