We talked a few weeks ago about the best snacks to send with kids for school. (What awesome ideas you all gave!!!) Now, it’s time for meal planning. This is something that I’ve always wanted to dig into … and many times I’ll make a plan only to have it foiled or things just not work out. I’m really wanting to stick with it this time. It will make our lives so much easier … and let’s face it – it’s cheaper in the long run since you are buying intentionally.

My goal is to have 25 meals that I can alternate throughout the month. Since I work outside the home, I need them to be quick and relatively painless to make.

This is our family meal routine: Monday & Tuesday – eat at home; Wednesday – eat fast food because the kids have choir at church; Thursday – eat at home; Friday – order pizza; Saturday – sandwiches for lunch & dinner at home; and Sunday – lunch out after church & dinner at home. I take my lunch to work everyday. I buy frozen meals in mass when they are on sale. I’ll take leftovers if there is only one serving. Don eats at Subway every day. (Yes, every.single.day.)

Here’s where you come in: Is there a meal that your family loves? Please comment and share the recipe (either here or on the Facebook Page). I’ll make a full list and post it on Sunday, August 15. We can all reap the benefits!

Here are the meals that I have in my pocket right now (I’m thinking fall recipes):

1. Chili
2. Tacos
3. Spaghetti
4. Salad (with tuna or baked chicken)
5. Pork Loin
6. Roast
7. Meatloaf
8. Chicken Breast
9. Hamburger Helper
10. Meatball Subs
11. Salmon Patties
12. California Chicken Salad
13. Chicken Parmesean
14. Homemade Pizza
15. Sloppy Joes
16. Homemade Veggie Soup
17. Lasagna

I receive a Kraft newsletter each week. The recipes always look fantastic, but I’ve not devoted myself to trying many of them. This fall, I’ve challenged myself to trying at least 2 new recipes each month. (I’ll more than likely do these on a Sunday night … more time to prep and really read the recipe!).

So, let’s share! Post some of your favorites – I’d love to see what you recommend.