2/4/2022 Friday Freebies and Deals!

It’s Friday friends! We’ve got a busy weekend now that we are healthy, it’s time for freebies and fun!

I’m going to try and include links to free local events as well. Please remember to follow all local public health guidelines. In California, that means wearing masks inside businesses and public spaces.

2022 Birthday Freebies are here (and also they’ve started flooding my inbox).

Freebies:

Free Pint of Nightfood Ice Cream
Free Lantern, Book Light or Flashlight
Free San Diego Zoo Safari Park Admission for Seniors
Free Spero Sunflower Cheeses
Free Nike Products
Free Beauty Services at Aveda
Free PawPrint Magazine
Free Johnsonville Smoked Sausage Mac & Cheese Monday House Party
Free $25 off Micro Center Coupon
Possible Free $100 Homeowners Research Study
Free Sample of EZC Pak Immune Support – 1st 1,000
Big List of Free Burgers
Free Sandwiches at Dickey’s Barbecue
Free Samples from Social Sampling – SoCal Only
Marlboro Rewards – Earn Free Gifts
Possible Free $125 Seasonal Allergies Research Study
Free Class at Gymboree
Free Medium Fries w/ Any $1 Purchase at McDonalds – Every Friday
Free Sample Pack of Vitafol Ultra or Gummies FirstStep
Free 2022 Wagner & Smith Wall Calendar
Free Pair of Mack’s Ear Plugs – Every Weekday
Buffalo Wild Wings – Free Wings if the Big Game Goes into OT
Free Red Dress Pin
Free Frutati & Mocati Hard Candy Samples
Free iPhone Phone Cases & Protectors
Free Pink Ombre Necklace & Keychain at Michael’s
Free Joyfull Bakery Parmesan Crisps
Possible Free $125 Devices Research Study
Free Star Collection Bookmark
Possible Free $175 Research Study
Free KPop Sauce After Rebate
2 Free Mtn Dew Drinks at Publix

Deals:

Disney Mickey Mouse Toaster 2-Slice ONLY $23.39 (Reg $38)
Polly Pocket Mattel Jigsaw Puzzle ONLY $5.66 (Reg. $12)
MUK LUKS Talora Slipper ONLY $14.99 (Reg. $34)
FREE Personalized Children’s Book for February
Brain Quest Kids Workbooks as Low as $5.70 on Amazon (Reg. $13)
Lulu Rose Fiona Earrings ONLY $14.00 (Reg. $80)
MUK LUKS Flexi Buffalo Shoe ONLY $34.99 (Reg. $70)
MUK LUKS Women’s Abigail Slipper ONLY $18.99 (Reg. $50)
Champion Boys Sherpa Hoodie ONLY $9.99 (Reg. $36)
Save 85% on Steve Madden Jewelry + Extra 10% Off at Checkout
Ballpoint Pen Assorted Colors 60-Count ONLY $4.99 on Amazon
KitchenAid 3-Piece Measuring Jugs Set ONLY $12.11 (Reg $25)
Yankee Candle Large Bahama Breeze ONLY $12.99 (Reg. $28)
Wrap Bracelets Collection ONLY $5.99 (Reg $28)
Wilton Steel Springform Pans Set of 3 ONLY $17.93 (Reg $50)
Valentine’s CZ Ring Collection ONLY $12.99 (Reg $39)
WiFi Wireless Essential Oil Diffuser ONLY $25.56 (Reg. $60)
LEGO Minifigure Faces 1000-Piece Puzzle ONLY $9.99 (Reg $18)
Van Ness 25-Pound Food Container ONLY $12.99 (Reg. $29)
75% Off Canada Weather Gear + Extra 10% Off at Checkout
Today Only: 70% Off Stylish Faves at Old Navy

1/31/2022 Weekly Meal Plan

0a5e9dab796cea8a07eabe4eb4795b9e.jpgThis week is starting off with a somber note. My dad is in the ICU and he’s stable, but pretty sick. So, dear readers, thoughts and prayers are requested! My meal plan for the week may not be as put together since I’ll be visiting him and my family as much as I can.

As usual, the CSA Box will be delivered this morning too. I’m hoping to roast up some veggies and make a big salad. I’ll be posting a really yummy salad recipe this week.

Veggies and fruit are delivered by Yasukochi Family Farms CSA. For $25, it’s a great deal. I don’t have to pick anything, go to the store, or carry it upstairs. I can’t go to the store and get the same amount we get weekly for $25. Seriously. It’s a deal. They email a preview of what will be in the boxes over the weekend, so I can start thinking about what I’d like to make.

I did a grocery shopping trip on Friday, stocked up on lunch food and snacks for the kids, and of course- milk and bread.

We’ve been trying a lot of new foods lately, thanks to the really great freebies from Social Nature lately too. It’s fun to try new foods.

For those of you that are new to meal planning, I’ve got an easy 101 style post here with super easy tips and steps. After you get that down, here is info about batch or freezer cooking.

I’ve gotten a pretty good inventory of the pantry, freezer, and fridge done (I try to update it after every shopping trip), so I’m able to plan meals and use up what we’ve got with little waste.

I only post our dinner plans for the week, because our other meals are usually the same each day.

Breakfast: Coffee with 1/2 and 1/2  for me, and pancakes or something along those lines for the kids. They are also into fruit and bagels for breakfast. Lately, the big kid has been digging protein shakes in the morning. This is his favorite kind. 

Lunch: I have a plastic tote in the cupboard full of self-serve snacks. I buy treats and snacks in bulk and fill up snack-sized zip-top bags. I’m back to packing lunches again. However, school lunches are free this year- Little Bit has been buying her lunch and expanding her palate.

Dinner: This week we’ll start enjoying some Dream Dinners, and I’ll be posting pics and deets all over my social media!

  • Monday: Dinner with family
  • Tuesday: Nug night- I’ve got 3 different types, krinkle fries, apple slices & strawberries
  • Wednesday:   Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Power Bowl We didn’t have it last week
  • Thursday:   Baked Stuffed Canollis, salad
  • Friday: Takeout night!
  • Saturday:  Leftovers
  • Sunday: Veggie Soup

Please stay safe you guys!

1/28/2022 Weekly Freebies and Deals

It’s Friday friends! We’ve got a busy weekend now that we are healthy, it’s time for freebies and fun!

I’m going to try and include links to free local events as well. Please remember to follow all local public health guidelines. In California, that means wearing masks inside businesses and public spaces.

2022 Birthday Freebies are here (and also they’ve started flooding my inbox).

Freebies

Watch Discovery+ for Free
Free Mab & Stoke Products
Free Simply Earth Essential Oil Box Subscription
Free Copy of Amazing Me It’s Busy Being 3! Book
Free Common Daily Body Cleanser Sample
Possible Free $125 Electronics Research Study
Free Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate Collection
Free Old Sad Songs Postcard
Free Bakery on Main Grain Free Granola
Free Black Box Wines Magnet, Koozie & More
Free AYO Foods Hand-Crafted West African Bowls
Free Solid Gold Pet Product
Free Subscription to LEGO Life Magazine
Free $20 Amazon Gift Card
Free The Last Kids on Earth Keychain, Pin, Sticker & More
Free Nature’s Path Granola Products
Possible Free $150 Super Bowl Research Study
Free Urban Skin Rx Product
Free Doughnut at Krispy Kreme
Possible Free $125 Health Conditions Study
Possible Free $100 Car Multimedia Research Study
Free Adventure Force Crawling Cobra Snake Toy
Free Body Lotion
Free Chippin Silver Carp Dog Food Sample
Free Prostate Cancer Foundation Heart-Shaped Awareness Pin
Free Explore 131 North Postcard & Decal
Free MaryRuth’s Liquid Probiotic
Possible Free $195 Personal Care Products Research Study
Possible Free $125 Lifestyle Research Study
Free Carmex Products & Swag
Free Sample of Impossible Foods Products
Free Magnolia Network, ID & Science Channels Preview
Free Revive Coffee Sample
Free One by Poise Liner & Pads Sample Pack
Free N95 Masks
2 Free Cans of Nature’s Logic Cat Food
Free LaCréme Beauté Body Lotion, Facial Cleanser & Body Wash

 

Deals:

Mainstays Side Storage Desk ONLY $39 (Reg $64)
Disney The Happy Planner 2022 Planner Box Kit ONLY $10 (Reg $35)
Guess Women’s Fuzzy Slippers ONLY $14.93 (Reg $50)
Character Glitter Earrings ONLY $8.99 (Reg $18)
Coach Outlet Mini Camera Bag ONLY $75 Shipped (Reg $250)
Insignia 6-Quart Pressure Cooker ONLY $39.99 (Reg $60)
Silver Bangle 3-Piece Set ONLY $6.99 (Reg $70)
LUKEES by MUK LUKS Sigrid Nikki Too Boots ONLY $32.99 (Reg. $99)
Crayola Coloring and Sticker Books ONLY $1.99 on Amazon
Bruin 2 in 1 Playgym ONLY $17.58 (Reg. $40)
Little Tikes Big Digger Sandbox Playset ONLY $34.99 (Reg $50)
Boys Graphic Short Sleeve T-Shirts 2-Pack ONLY $4.74 (Reg $18)
MKF Collection Angelina Crossbody Bag ONLY $27.99 (Reg $169)
MUK LUKS Pitch Soprano Sandal ONLY $16.99 (Reg. $55)
Up to 50% Off Skechers Shoes + Extra 10% Off at Checkout
MOSSY OAK Multi-Tool ONLY $14.39 (Reg. $26)
EverBrite 2-in-1 Mini Lanterns ONLY $8.99 (Reg. $15)
WORKPRO 13-inch Tool Bag ONLY $15.59 (Reg. $26)
FREE Shipt Membership for Visa Credit Cardholders

Finding Clothing Swaps in your area!

I love clothing swaps. It’s a great way to keep stuff out of landfills! And with how fast kids grow, it’s nice to share clothes with other families.

Since the pandemic started, there have been almost no clothing swaps, but slowly they are starting to come back. If you are looking for some swaps in your area, here are a few recommendations:

Check out Meetup. I’m a member of Thread Bumpin’, a clothing swap group in San Diego.  They post swap opportunities (swapertunities?) as they become aware of them, and various members host swaps as well.

If you are feeling brave, this article is full of ideas for hosting your own swap (not just limited to clothes).

And as always, here are a few other clothing resources:

Naomi’s Closet is located in Santee, and they provide clothing and toiletries to women in need.

The Sonrise Church in Santee has a clothing swap too! One for kid’s clothes, and another for women’s clothing. Miss Charity’s Closet & Little Blessings Boutique 2nd Saturday of every month at 9:00 am Contact Charity Murphy for more info clmurphy71@gmail.com

And Finally, the Closet of 54th isn’t a clothing swap per se, but they do help those in need with new to them clothes. They are open once a few times each month. You can find them on Facebook. They are located at the Calvary Lutheran Church, 3060 54th Street, San Diego, CA. Contact The Closet at thecloseton54th@gmail.com.

 

Talk Back:  I’d love to hear about other San Diego area clothing swaps that you know of! Favorite swaps and/or what your best score has been!

1/24/2022 Weekly Meal Plan

0a5e9dab796cea8a07eabe4eb4795b9e.jpg

Woo Hoo! I’m stoked about this week! I’ve got a Dream Dinners Pick up this afternoon.  I took advantage of the deal I posted last week, and I’ve got 9 meals taken care of – I’ll be spreading those meals over this week and next.

And the CSA Box will be delivered this morning too. Late last week I roasted 2 butternut squashes, and I’m turning the roasted squash into soup today (recipe here). I’m making it vegetarian, so the big kid can try it out too.

Veggies and fruit are delivered by Yasukochi Family Farms CSA. For $25, it’s a great deal. I don’t have to pick anything, go to the store, or carry it upstairs. I can’t go to the store and get the same amount we get weekly for $25. Seriously. It’s a deal. They email a preview of what will be in the boxes over the weekend, so I can start thinking about what I’d like to make.

We’ve been trying a lot of new foods lately, thanks to the really great freebies from Social Nature lately too. It’s fun to try new foods.

For those of you that are new to meal planning, I’ve got an easy 101 style post here with super easy tips and steps. After you get that down, here is info about batch or freezer cooking.

I’ve gotten a pretty good inventory of the pantry, freezer, and fridge done (I try to update it after every shopping trip), so I’m able to plan meals and use up what we’ve got with little waste.

I only post our dinner plans for the week, because our other meals are usually the same each day.

Breakfast: Coffee with 1/2 and 1/2  for me, and pancakes or something along those lines for the kids. They are also into fruit and bagels for breakfast. Lately, the big kid has been digging protein shakes in the morning. This is his favorite kind. 

Lunch: I have a plastic tote in the cupboard full of self-serve snacks. I buy treats and snacks in bulk and fill up snack-sized zip-top bags. I’m back to packing lunches again. However, school lunches are free this year- Little Bit has been buying her lunch and expanding her palate.

Dinner: This week we’ll start enjoying some Dream Dinners, and I’ll be posting pics and deets all over my social media!

Please stay safe you guys!

1/21/2022 Friday Freebies and Deals!

It’s Friday friends! We’ve got a busy weekend now that we are healthy, it’s time for freebies and fun!

I’m going to try and include links to free local events as well. Please remember to follow all local public health guidelines. In California, that means wearing masks inside businesses and public spaces.

I’m working on new birthday freebies for 2022 as well. If you know of any, please drop me an email!

Freebies

Free Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Beef Recipe Chatterbox
Free Harvest One Dream Water
Free Vitamin C Eye Cream
Free Dryer Sheets or Fabric Conditioner
Free Hometown Hero Delta 8 Gummies
Free N95 Masks at CVS & Walgreens
Free Tetley Luck of the Irish Tea Party Kit
Free Supergoop! Ounce by Ounce Starter Kit for Teachers
Free Origins Ginzing Oil-Free Energy-Boosting Gel Moisturizer
Free Sample of AdvantaClear Surface Disinfectant Wipes
Free Sample of Cascade Platinum Dishwasher Pacs
Hero Skin Squad – Free Beauty Products
Free Llama Stickers
Free Programmable Coffee Maker
Free Hometown Hero Select Spectrum Gummies
Free Ceramic Cyclone Car Wash at Rainstorm Car Wash
Free Vaultz Lock Box
Free Water Guns
Free Water Guns, Water Slide, Balloons & More
Free Itty Bitty Prettys, Rainbocorns, Pets Alive Toys
Free Zuru 5 Surprise Toys
Free Zuru Max Building Toys
Free LED Fairy Lights
Free Medium Fries w/ Any $1 Purchase at McDonalds – Every Friday
Free Bubble Wow Glove-A-Bubbles Toys
Free Remote Control Truck Toys
Free Dude Wipes at Walmart
Free Pizza, Chips, Cookies & More
FREE Trial Box of SkinnyMe Premium Chocolate
Possible Free Secret & Gillette Antiperspirant & Deodorants
Free Sexual Wellness Device
Free Childrens Hospitals Week Bandages
Free Brown Scapular

Deals:

Little Girls Puffer Jacket ONLY $37.50 (Reg $75)
Crayola Colossal Tub of Glitter Art Set ONLY $6.93 (Reg. $25)
Boom Ear Buds ONLY $13.95 Shipped (Reg. $60)
Multi Line Stack Bracelets ONLY $4.99 (Reg $14.99)
Kathy Ireland Women’s Dahlia Bootie Slipper ONLY $21.99
My Squishy Little Dumpling Interactive Doll ONLY $5.94 (Reg $10)
Calvin Klein Gabrianna Leather Mini Tote ONLY $59.97 (Reg $118)
Kate Spade Marti Large Bucket Bag ONLY $119 (Reg $399)
Lucky Brand 65% Off + Exclusive 10% Off at Checkout
Pro Impact Massager ONLY $34.99 (Reg $50)
MUK LUKS Women’s Braelyn Slide Slipper ONLY $16.99 (Reg. $34)
T-Fal Culinaire 16-Piece Cookware Set ONLY $59.49 (Reg $250)
Insignia 8-Quart Digital Multi Cooker ONLY $54.99 (Reg $120)
50% Off Your First Rocksbox: Perfect Valentine’s Gift
MUK LUKS Men’s Mark Bootie ONLY $19.99 (Reg $40)
PowerXL Grill Air Fryer ONLY $69 (Reg $149)
Manhattan Toy Playdate Friends ONLY $10.64 (Reg. $29)
LOL Surprise Boys Arcade Heroes ONLY $6.35 (Reg. $15)
L.O.L. Surprise Ooh La La Baby Surprise ONLY $19.99 (Reg $40)

1/17/2022 Weekly Meal Plan

0a5e9dab796cea8a07eabe4eb4795b9e.jpg

I did absolutely no meal prep over the weekend. The big kid has Covid-19, and little sister spent the week at home also, as she is in close contact and needed to quarantine. I’m vaxxed and boosted (and I tested negative on Tuesday), so I’ve been going to work and the usual. BUT- Every winter, after Christmas without fail I lose my voice. It’s been an “annual tradition” (honestly one I could live without) for at least…15 years. No other symptoms- just no voice. Or I sound like I’ve been a lifelong smoker.

Taking care of sick and bored kids is not fun, and it takes up every waking hour.

Luckily, we are back on the CSA train- We need some fresh produce in our lives and I hate carrying more groceries upstairs!

Veggies and fruit are delivered by Yasukochi Family Farms CSA. For $25, it’s a great deal. I don’t have to pick anything, go to the store, or carry it upstairs. I can’t go to the store and get the same amount we get weekly for $25. Seriously. It’s a deal. They email a preview of what will be in the boxes over the weekend, so I can start thinking about what I’d like to make.

We’ve been trying a lot of new foods lately, thanks to the really great freebies from Social Nature lately too. It’s fun to try new foods.

For those of you that are new to meal planning, I’ve got an easy 101 style post here with super easy tips and steps. After you get that down, here is info about batch or freezer cooking.

I’ve gotten a pretty good inventory of the pantry, freezer, and fridge done (I try to update it after every shopping trip), so I’m able to plan meals and use up what we’ve got with little waste.

I only post our dinner plans for the week, because our other meals are usually the same each day.

Breakfast: Coffee with 1/2 and 1/2  for me, and pancakes or something along those lines for the kids. They are also into fruit and bagels for breakfast. Lately the big kid has been digging protein shakes in the morning. This is his favorite kind. 

Lunch: I have a plastic tote in the cupboard full of self-serve snacks. I buy treats and snacks in bulk and fill up snack-sized zip-top bags. I’m back to packing lunches again. However, school lunches are free this year- Little Bit has been buying her lunch and expanding her palate.

Dinner: This week we’ll start enjoying some Dream Dinners, and I’ll be posting pics and deets all over my social media!

  • Monday: Roasted Veggies, Soup and Grilled Cheese sandwiches
  • Tuesday: Nug night- I’ve got 3 different types, krinkle fries, apple slices & orange wedges
  • Wednesday: Tortellini and Vegetable Medley Soup, Garlic Bread
  • Thursday:   Quesadillas, roasted corn salsa, beans & rice
  • Friday: Takeout night!
  • Saturday:  Leftovers
  • Sunday:  Wings, Salad, cheesy mashed potatoes

Please stay safe you guys!

Starting 1/19/2022: Free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests

As many of you know, Covid hit our house last week and trying to find tests has been impossible. Thankfully here in our city, the school district has testing facilities for students and staff. We will be masking up and waiting in that line tomorrow morning bright and early to re-test the big kiddo and get him cleared to go back to school.

For the rest of us, starting on Wednesday, you can order Free at-home COVID-19 tests from Covidtests.org.

Every home in the U.S. can soon order 4 free at-home COVID-⁠19 tests. The tests will be completely free—there are no shipping costs and you don’t need to enter a credit card number.

The website is up, but ordering capabilities will not be available until 1/19/2022.

In the meantime, a new federal law mandates that private insurance companies must reimburse covered individuals for over-the-counter COVID-19 tests at up to $12 per test.

Consumers can either purchase the testing kits at no cost or submit receipts for reimbursement from the insurance company. For more information or specific details, contact your insurance company directly.

As always, if you are sick (with anything, not just COVID): Stay home, wash your hands frequently, throw away your used tissues, cover your nose and mouth if you must be around others, stay hydrated, and REST. I know it’s hard to give yourself permission to chill and do nothing, but sleep and rest give your body a chance to recover. Also- Chicken soup. My recipe is here. The more veggies, the better.

 

1/13/2022 Friday Freebies and Deals

Sorry this has been so late today.

The big kid tested positive for ‘Rona, and so I’ve been dealing with a sick kiddo (he mostly has a headache and is “soooo bored” that he’s taking naps a lot), plus little sister had to quarantine because of close contact (she and I both tested negative on Tuesday). And I’m rocking my annual sore throat that culminates in losing my voice for a week.  Other than that… We are doing great!

I’m going to try and include links to free local events as well. Please remember to follow all local public health guidelines. In California, that means wearing masks inside businesses and public spaces.

I’m working on new birthday freebies for 2022 as well. If you know of any, please drop me an email!

Freebies

Free Fire Ant Temporary Tattoo
Free Maddy’s Sweet Shop Shortbread Snaps
Free Soapbox Vitamin Complex Shampoo
Free Makebreak: Silver and Snow Paint Pour Art at Michael’s
Free CVS Health Baby Wipes
Free Wildlife Services Tick Remover
Free Just Crack An Egg Omelet Rounds at Walmart
Free Lane Bryant Gift Card Giveaway
Free At-Home COVID Test (Anthem Insurance holders only)
Free Veggiecraft Farms Veggie Pasta
Free Beauty Services at Aveda
Free OUI Juicy Couture Play Eau de Parfum Set
Free Sample of Hermes Paris Fragrance
Free SOS Hydration Kids Electrolyte Drink Mix at Walmart
Free Candle & Diffuser + $75 eGift Code
Free Emerald Ash Borer Temporary Tattoo
Free Sample of Enemeez Mini or Enemeez Plus Samples
Free Racecar Track Sets
Free NotCo Plant-Based Milk Alternative
Free Sample of Yes Life CBD Oil & Hemp CBD Pain Relief Cream
Free Coca-Cola with Coffee at Walmart
Free I Am Still Serving Decal
Free Mexican Fruit Fly Temporary Tattoo
Free Bestway Slide ‘n Glide Party Kit
Free Defend the Flock Magnet
Free Spotted Lantern Fly Stickers
Free Vital Proteins Collagen Peptide at Select Stores
Free Soapbox Vitamin Complex Conditioner
Free Hallmark Card Every Month
Free Medium Fries w/ Any $1 Purchase at McDonalds – Every Friday
Free Smart Battery Powered Toothbrush
Free Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Temporary Tattoo
Free Origins Original Skin Matte Moisturizer
Free Lintbells YuMOVE Joint Health Supplement for Dogs

Deals:

Dani Leopard Clutch ONLY $14.99 Shipped (Reg $29.99)
Pocket Collared Coat ONLY $14.97 (Reg $55)
Kate Spade Bailey Shoulder Bag ONLY $89 (Reg $359)
Divatex Quick Dry Hand Towel ONLY $2.93 (Reg $10)
Bella Pro Series 4.2-qt Analog Air Fryer ONLY $29.99 (Reg $60)
Hunter Women’s Tall Boots ONLY $79.97 (Reg $150)
Little Tikes Whale Teeter Totter ONLY $25 (Reg $75)
Champion Boys Basketball Shorts ONLY $9.59 (Reg $24)
Lancôme Eye Makeup Remover ONLY $16 (Reg $32)
Spider-Man Hat And Wallet ONLY $8.30 (Reg. $20)
Lenovo Smart Clock 2 ONLY $49.99 (Reg $70)
Philips Sonicare One Rechargeable Toothbrush $23.95 (Reg. $40)
Victoria’s Secret Classic Backpack ONLY $12.99 (Reg $30)
MUK LUKS Women’s Sarina Boots ONLY $27.99 (Reg. $60)
Ulta Love Your Skin Event: 50% Off Lancome, Murad and More
NuWave 15.5-Qt Air Fryer Oven $110 + $25 Kohl’s Cash
Chatties Fuchsia Glitter Clog for Girls ONLY $7.99 (Reg $20)
Brother P-Touch PT-M95 Label Maker ONLY $24.99 (Reg. $50)

1/10/22 Weekly Meal Plan

0a5e9dab796cea8a07eabe4eb4795b9e.jpg

I spent some time yesterday cooking. I made broccoli rice casserole (recipe later this week), soup, brownies, and mac n’ cheese.  I also prepped the last of the veggies. I’ve got grown-up lunches covered for the week, and some of our sides for the week too.

Last week was busy and while we didn’t stick to our meal plan, we came pretty close… and that’s ok. I always have extra food on hand to make quick/easy meals for nights when.. stuff goes sideways.  Canned soup, stuff for grilled cheese, quesadillas, beans and rice, frozen entrees, leftovers.

We are back on the CSA train- We need some fresh produce in our lives and I hate carrying more groceries upstairs!

Veggies and fruit are delivered by Yasukochi Family Farms CSA. For $25, it’s a great deal. I don’t have to pick anything, go to the store, or carry it upstairs. I can’t go to the store and get the same amount we get weekly for $25. Seriously. It’s a deal.

We’ve been trying a lot of new foods lately, thanks to the really great freebies from Social Nature lately too. It’s fun to try new foods.

For those of you that are new to meal planning, I’ve got an easy 101 style post here with super easy tips and steps. After you get that down, here is info about batch or freezer cooking.

I’ve gotten a pretty good inventory of the pantry, freezer, and fridge done (I try to update it after every shopping trip), so I’m able to plan meals and use up what we’ve got with little waste.

I only post our dinner plans for the week, because our other meals are usually the same each day.

Breakfast: Coffee with 1/2 and 1/2  for me, and pancakes or something along those lines for the kids. They are also into fruit and bagels for breakfast. The Ancient Grain bagels from Einstein Bros. are the current family favorite. I pick them up on Mondays when a dozen is only $7. I slice them and freeze them to keep them from going bad too quickly.

Lunch: I have a plastic tote in the cupboard full of self-serve snacks. I buy treats and snacks in bulk and fill up snack-sized zip-top bags. I’m back to packing lunches again. However, school lunches are free this year- Little Bit has been buying her lunch and expanding her palate.

Dinner: This week we don’t have a lot planned after school/work, so I should be able to get some yummy dinners on the tables.

  • Monday: Nuggets (both chicken and veggie), fresh fruit, noodles, cheese, and crackers
  • Tuesday: Oven Roasted chicken, roasted veg, Salad
  • Wednesday: Brocolli rice casserole, salad, garlic bread
  • Thursday:  Soup, Grilled Cheese, fruit
  • Friday: Takeout night!
  • Saturday:  Leftovers
  • Sunday: Baked pasta/veg casserole

Please stay safe you guys!