In reality, many aspects must be taken into consideration. This is where a solid meal plan comes in handy. I like to plan meals on Sundays so I can get ideas from the rest of the family. (Though I know they will always say “pizza!”) It also gives me a chance to take a good, hard look at the upcoming week’s schedule and see what meals I realistically have time to cook. Lastly, I like to take an inventory of what I already have and use it first. This is where freezer meals make me so happy! Now, of course, no plan is perfect. I still run to the store for milk and somehow we never have quite enough fruit to last a whole week. Yet, it feels good knowing that at least we’ll have dinner. The meals this week are perfect for busy evenings. Quick, make-ahead, or freezer-friendly meals—now that’s a solid plan!

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