This is exactly how I've been planning for years. Helps so much! And it's easy to look back and see what was a hit in the past. I also only try 1 new recipe a week, but not every week. It's also easier to be flexible if things come up in the week you can easily swap days.
Excellent video ✨ I was feeling overwhelmed just thinking about starting menu planning - my son, my husband, daughter have been doing the bulk of the shopping and cooking - but both my son and daughter are leaving for college soon. I used to spontaneously buy stuff and cook when everyone was younger but am now determined to learn how to menu plan. Thank you for making it simple, although not always easy. I feel like I have tools now - and I’m consulting my favorite cookbooks as I go 😀
As a single person, I appreciate your ideas. I am at a place in my life where I want to plan two to three meals that I can rotate through in the week. I also want to eat more healthy and eat out less. I actually eat out so I can at least eat around people instead of alone. But with this method, I may be able to plan at least one or two times a week invite someone over for a meal or offer to bring a meal to someone and eat with them at their house. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
Same situation! I meal planned when I had kids at home. I miss cooking but same as you, it seems silly to plan for one person. I eat out or eat cereal for dinner or yogurt, no motivation! I'm thinking writing it down will help motivate me; also, if we can't share the food, we can separate into two or three meals and freeze one.
The idea of numbering 1 to 7 and choosing your meal from that is absolutely groundbreaking to me!! I've been meal planning on and off for years and I throw so much food away, because I didn't want to eat that meal on that night. I've honestly never thought of Free Spirit meal planning. Genius!
Annie Smith I’ve immediately noticed a change in my eating out habits! I am single so I would wander around after work trying to figure out what to eat. Sometimes I wouldn’t even eat out of frustration. Planning ahead is something I should of been doing a long time ago. The way you present it is so clear and efficient! I can’t wait for it to grow as I grow and create a family! This is too good! I am amazed and I will definitely share this with people I think it’ll benefit. This little video has impacted my life in a big way! I’ve watched about 6 times since I stumbled upon it. Thank you for sharing!
Ever since you posted this I have used this method and it has been such a gamechanger! I have been sharing this video with friends and on forums ever since and I have no doubt it has helped others simplify this so very important practice. Such a blessing! Thank you!!!
One thing I now know I was doing wrong was browsing recipes/getting inspiration WHILE meal planning - made my meal planning sessions extra long!!! Also love your suggestion of keeping a list of family favorites. So excited to try your method now!!
Best thing I ever did was to make menu planning a regular weekly task. My local grocery stores both start their weekly sales on Wednesday, so I menu plan every Tuesday and shop every Wednesday.
The recipe browsing/pinterest scrolling is SO TRUE!!! I was meal planning yesterday and by the end of it, I was telling myself that I needed to find a way for it to take me way less time!
Wow!!! This is great. I really want to save money by implementing dinners during the week. I KNOW the family would love it. I’ve never been much of a meal planner it seems so daunting but i would like to be able to do this. Thank you 🙏🏼
This is awesome! I have used the designated days system before (mondays pasta, Tuesdays mexican, wednesdays chicken... sundays special). Doing this, you can choose fast dishes for nights you know you are busy, and longer special dishes for days you have more time to cook. My problem is more the sitting down to plan the meals. So helpful to think of it as an essential appointment. Doing that this week! Yah me!
Hi Annie, Thank you for this video. For years I was a stay at home mom and loved to cook and always had more time to spend in the kitchen. When I started working outside the home cooking and menu planning became one of my least favorite things to do. Menu planning always seemed to take forever and after that you have to go to the grocery store to buy it all and then come home and put it all away. 😩 It would take several hours on the weekend and I hated it. I am one of those people who always looks at cookbooks and online for new recipes at the time that I am menu planning. I absolutely love your advice to do that through the week. That way when it comes to my menu plan, I already have done all of the searching before hand. I don’t know why I didn’t think of that before hand. To do a little bit through the week is going to make my actual planning and shopping day so much faster. Thank you! 😁
Don’t forget to take inventory of what you already in have in your pantry and freezer. That way you don’t have to buy as much stuff and you don’t possibly waste what you already have. My problem is staying consistent. I love the idea of scheduling meal planning.
Great tips! I keep a running list of our favorite meals by ethnicity such as Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Comfort Foods, Family Favorites, etc. Then I have a variety to pull from in a heart beat when planning my weekly menu. ~ Happy Planning!
This was a really helpful way to look at meal planning. I have dozens of cookbooks, recipes torn from magazines, recipes printed out, my Mom's recipes, and multiple Pinterest boards of meal ideas. I'm thinking about doing a giant purge just to get the weight of it off my mind. Just because a recipe looks good doesn't mean I'll actually ever make it!
Hello Annie, I am so excited to use your method of planning meals. I don't know why I never considered just planning one meal per day lol. You are my hero!!
Don’t get how there are thumbs down. There are SO many tips here! Appreciate sharing your tricks! I don’t know why I didn’t think of “what do we normally order at restaurants”? 🤦🏻♀️🙏🏼
@@judegrindvoll8467 She didn't come across patronizing to me at all. I need her detailed explanation because I'm clueless so it's a matter of preference I suppose.
I didn't thumbs down bc I don't want to be that person but I'm so confused why she has to do all of this, when she's married? why doesn't her husband help
really love your approach! I meal plan a similar way. I like the way you explained how you do each step & how to get the most out of the time you spend meal planning. thank you!
this was so helpful! i have never used my planner as a wallet, but I do have card holders in it, so I guess it is supposed to be used as a wallet :D i'll be doing this. And thank you so much for the advice to not search for recipes when planning and to not think that we're stuck to the day's menu, but to choose from what we set out to make. Thank you so much for all of this.
My children are older, so there are four adults in our house. I make a roast dinner on a Sunday, the girls make two choices each and my husband and I have a choice each. That way everyone gets at least one meal each week that they enjoy. I leave the menu plan out on a Saturday for people to make their choices. Because I have a delivery slot booked for Sunday I have a deadline for when I have to complete my order. Once the shopping is delivered to us on a Sunday I plan the choices into the week depending on everyone’s plans and the best before dates on the fresh products. Then I write it on the whiteboard in the kitchen so everyone knows how the week looks. We have also introduced that if it’s your meal choice, you wash the dishes, unfortunately I still mostly do all the cooking.
Thank you. It works well for us and takes the pressure off me trying to plan the whole week myself. I do my shopping list like you. Choices on the left shopping list on the right.
New to your channel. Enjoyed watching this and will definitely schedule in a set time to do my meal planning? I often forget what things I have in the freezer, (food or meats I buy in large packages). Do you keep a list of that, or how would manage that to make sure those are used?
I rarely have extras in my freezer or pantry. I try to keep only what we’re going to eat that week. But I just quick take a look before ordering my groceries to confirm that I don’t order something I already have.
We've been planning our menus for years (ever since we moved in together so about 12-13 years). Less shopping trips, confidence that we know what we will eat in the upcoming week, flexibility with meals - you can't beat that. I do it in a similar way as you. I write down all the meals, then list all the stuff that will be needed, but I do it on a5 sheet of paper which gets discarded (I take just one piece of paper with me to the shop and I don't need to hold on to my shopping list afterwards really). I use Hobonichi Weeks where I have a spot for my meals during the week.
From other videos I've seen, the advantage to keeping it all is that when you get to a busy or hard season of life, you can, if necessary, just repeat the week before. Or the 4 weeks before on rotation, if it's going to be hard for a while.
I do meal prep per week at least 2 -3 menus but mostly 2 menus. I have a column for what I have on my pantry/fridge or freezer that way I can plan my menu with what I have. I also have a small book that I wrote all my favorite easy dishes that I collected from TH-cam/pinterest. Actually one doctor took a picture of those recipes that I collected. I set a day browsing the interne for those collections. One thing with those recipes that I collected, ingredients can be mix/match. I almost always use my instant pot and air-fryer. I also took a day mixing my own spices and jar it for easy and quick to marinate meats. example of those recipes are: Fajita bowls, taco bowls or mediterranean bowls which easily be converted for regular tacos or burritos, For 2020, I would like to be consistent on writing the foods that I am eating specially those extras or detour meals. Thanks for sharing.
I’ve been trying out menu themes and that’s really made it so much more simple. So like, Mexican, Italian, Asian, Burgers or Pizza, etc., then on say Mexican day I can choose anything in that category: enchiladas, burritos, tacos. That way it limits me but yet still gives options in case everyone is tired of tacos (wait, that never happens in real life does it?). You did a great job explaining your system thank you! I hope in your next video you address your shopping system-grocery delivery. Woot!
Great tips! And yes! One free spirit here! I’ve always sort of menu planned in my head and purchased the same weekly staples for meals and cooked based on my mood of the day. 🤗 I like your idea of writing down menu ideas. I’ve had a page in my planner for over a year with the heading, “favorite meals,” but it’s blank. 🤦🏻♀️ I really like the idea of choosing menu ideas from the types of meals when we like when we eat out. That would be tacos. We could eat tacos everyday. Thanks for sharing! Really helpful tips. ❤️❤️❤️ Joy2plan
I do plan my own meals but mine are pretty much the same as I am vegan and usually eat the same thing most days. However, I do need to plan my shopping list because I eat a lot of fresh, raw, natural foods and need to replenish! Like your meal planning tips!
I go through streaks...no consistency....maybe your tips will help. I’m the free spirit...the seven choices idea is more me. I already have a leftover day due to a tight schedule. I used “Hello Fresh” for a while and liked that I had three meals with ingredients ready to go and I would just fill in the rest....but I’m trying save some money so I discontinued that service. It was nice though, but maybe I can get the same benefit cheaper by using your system... thanks for sharing!
This sounds like a good method, and I’m looking forward to implementing it. Especially the part about not browsing recipes! I just have a question. How do you ensure you’re getting the right balance of nutrition in your meals? That’s what’s been hanging me up on getting started with meal planning.
I focus on a protein then fill with green veggies and sometimes healthy carbs. That’s what I love about Trim Healthy Mama, you don’t have to obsess over numbers 🎉
We really need to make our meal planning appointment for Sunday. With six adults in the house, plus long work schedules with our business, dinners get hectic😬! Our days also include a possible 4 more adults in our house visiting and eating meals here. My husband and I do have our favorites lists created now we just need to stay consistent! It really helps to know what’s on the weekly plan. I always have to make more for dinner because the leftovers are eaten for lunches(or breakfast)😁! I still use the shopping at the store the old fashioned way as my exercise and steps, plus a chance to get out of the house, my office is here🤣! But we are all ‘free spirits’ here and just need a 1 through 6 list ( Our Friday’s are pizza 🍕)😀! Thank you for sharing your methods and for reminding me that it doesn’t have to be that hard💗🤗!
nice video :-) my husband changes the menu up most days but I don't mind because it's the same meat item that I chose for that day my kids complain until they eat dinner and then they rave about it.
There's a link in the description box, but I don't know which specific planner in that stores is the one she uses🤔 I took a look and the "12 month planner" is $40!
We meal plan the same way! Now that my daughter is grown and gone I made a new one for my husband and I and gave her my old setup. Meal planning saves you money, time and sanity! lol Thanks for sharing this!
As a free spirit, I love this. I love leftovers too. When I'm having a rough day, having frozen left overs make it easy to have a good meal that is "fend for yourself".
I have been using this meal planning system for many years. I love it. I have tried to go digital so many times and it never sticks. I love my planner.
I love this. I have been meal planning for my family since high school (I have always loved to cook) since my mom always went shopping. I have been married 24 years. I would be lost without meal planning.
Do you or have you ever used the planner perfect meal planner journal?? Wondering if the 21.00+additional charge is worth it or should I just do a journal and list meals similar to yours❤️
Organization of any kind, for any facet of your life, is good stewardship. Each day has a limited amount of time, limited amount of energy, and those limits need to be acknowledged and respected. In reality, however we choose to live, we are exchanging a limited personal resource ( our time and energy) for each thing we add to our day. I prioritize things that need to be done keeping in mind the things that are most important to me. So, reading to my kids has a higher priority than dusting the furniture. The kids get more of my limited time and energy than the dust bunnies under the couch. I am not justifying living in a dirty home, I am planning by taking into account the absolute limits we all have on our time and energy.
We are a family of Mum, Dad and 4 teens who all have a turn at cooking. It would be straightforward if they chose what they wanted to cook and I just bought what they needed, actually I did at the start of this process but was spending wayyyyyy more on food. I shop the specials each week, but then no one knows what they are cooking. We loose track of each other as everyone is in and out. The plan is falling apart and everyone is phoning it in! Help!!
Yikes! It sounds like you definitely need to pick a system and get everyone on board. When I try to spend less per week I keep track of what meats we serve- I try to buy bulk ground beef that I can use for 2-4 meals that week so I’m saving money. Chicken breast is another that I buy bulk and split between two meals. This way I’m spending less per meal. Maybe you can give each person a dollar amount and their meal ingredients have to add up to that amount or they have to select another recipe. That way you can budget for the week but still give everyone the choice for their meal???
@@AnnieSmithawifenmother Hey nice idea on the budget! I'll put it to the vote! lol I used to love cooking but with fussy eaters who were disappointed every meal I got very over it. So now they all have to cook too and while they learn new skills they also learn what it's like to be on the other end of the meal prep!
You said self care...well there goes that I hate self care..I always feel crappy taking time for me..its selfish. Doesn't matter what I do im just not smart enough to meal plan..I all ways fail at planning and have no idea how to shop...it just doesn't work for me... My husband is tired of tacos since his coworkers would always go for tacos and work...im lucky to eat tacos once a month..but he is starting to be leaving for work soo I can eat tacos the whole week 🙃.
New habits are easier when we take small steps. Maybe try one new recipe a week and spend an hour per week doing whatever you want. And then build from there.
I think you have important information presented in good order and a pleasant voice. However, I don't like watching your hands bob around. I use the time you are talking to examine the examples you are showing us. So you get 5 Stars out of 5 Stars.
This is exactly how I've been planning for years. Helps so much! And it's easy to look back and see what was a hit in the past. I also only try 1 new recipe a week, but not every week. It's also easier to be flexible if things come up in the week you can easily swap days.
Excellent video ✨ I was feeling overwhelmed just thinking about starting menu planning - my son, my husband, daughter have been doing the bulk of the shopping and cooking - but both my son and daughter are leaving for college soon. I used to spontaneously buy stuff and cook when everyone was younger but am now determined to learn how to menu plan. Thank you for making it simple, although not always easy. I feel like I have tools now - and I’m consulting my favorite cookbooks as I go 😀
Minute 25 helped me, pick 7 entrees and make them as you want them throughout the week. Brilliant!
I’m so glad it helped you ❤️
As a single person, I appreciate your ideas. I am at a place in my life where I want to plan two to three meals that I can rotate through in the week. I also want to eat more healthy and eat out less. I actually eat out so I can at least eat around people instead of alone. But with this method, I may be able to plan at least one or two times a week invite someone over for a meal or offer to bring a meal to someone and eat with them at their house. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
My pleasure ❤️ I hope it helps
Same situation! I meal planned when I had kids at home. I miss cooking but same as you, it seems silly to plan for one person. I eat out or eat cereal for dinner or yogurt, no motivation! I'm thinking writing it down will help motivate me; also, if we can't share the food, we can separate into two or three meals and freeze one.
The idea of numbering 1 to 7 and choosing your meal from that is absolutely groundbreaking to me!! I've been meal planning on and off for years and I throw so much food away, because I didn't want to eat that meal on that night. I've honestly never thought of Free Spirit meal planning. Genius!
Carol B 1412 she has changed the game for me! This is genius. And the tip about not looking at recipes while planning is key!
I’m so glad this is hitting you where you are- that’s what I love about this. It should be easily adaptable to ANY situation 🥰
Annie Smith I’ve immediately noticed a change in my eating out habits! I am single so I would wander around after work trying to figure out what to eat. Sometimes I wouldn’t even eat out of frustration. Planning ahead is something I should of been doing a long time ago. The way you present it is so clear and efficient! I can’t wait for it to grow as I grow and create a family! This is too good! I am amazed and I will definitely share this with people I think it’ll benefit. This little video has impacted my life in a big way! I’ve watched about 6 times since I stumbled upon it. Thank you for sharing!
Ever since you posted this I have used this method and it has been such a gamechanger! I have been sharing this video with friends and on forums ever since and I have no doubt it has helped others simplify this so very important practice. Such a blessing! Thank you!!!
That is so encouraging to hear, thank you ☺️
One thing I now know I was doing wrong was browsing recipes/getting inspiration WHILE meal planning - made my meal planning sessions extra long!!! Also love your suggestion of keeping a list of family favorites. So excited to try your method now!!
I was doing that too 😫 It prolongs the menu process for sure. I’m glad this video helped you simplify your system!
Best thing I ever did was to make menu planning a regular weekly task. My local grocery stores both start their weekly sales on Wednesday, so I menu plan every Tuesday and shop every Wednesday.
Very smart!!!! ❤️
Brilliant. Never thought to do that.
Even taco Tuesday can be flexible. Sometimes we do quesadillas, fajitas, taco dip or taco in a bag to switch things up a bit
Exactly! I’m so glad you said this because I meant to say this and forgot 😂
The recipe browsing/pinterest scrolling is SO TRUE!!! I was meal planning yesterday and by the end of it, I was telling myself that I needed to find a way for it to take me way less time!
Right?! Such a time waster (even if it is kinda fun to scroll new recipes)
Wow!!! This is great. I really want to save money by implementing dinners during the week. I KNOW the family would love it. I’ve never been much of a meal planner it seems so daunting but i would like to be able to do this. Thank you 🙏🏼
It really has helped me so much! It’s actually been less work in the long run so that has been amazing 🤩
This was so helpful, thank you so much for sharing with us.
My pleasure, thank you for watching.
Great video. I love your rule of not browsing recipes. Terrific idea having a family favorite list x
I like your idea as scheduling meal planning as an appointment. I need to do this. I find myself meal planning Sunday night or Monday morning.
This is awesome! I have used the designated days system before (mondays pasta, Tuesdays mexican, wednesdays chicken... sundays special). Doing this, you can choose fast dishes for nights you know you are busy, and longer special dishes for days you have more time to cook. My problem is more the sitting down to plan the meals. So helpful to think of it as an essential appointment. Doing that this week! Yah me!
That’s a good idea to help prompt meal ideas quickly! I hope the appointment idea really helps you gain the consistency you want ☺️
This was wonderful! I have had a mental block with trying to get started with a menu planning system. Thank you so much for sharing!
I’m so glad it was inspiring! I hope there are yummy meals filling your home ❤️
Hi Annie, Thank you for this video. For years I was a stay at home mom and loved to cook and always had more time to spend in the kitchen. When I started working outside the home cooking and menu planning became one of my least favorite things to do. Menu planning always seemed to take forever and after that you have to go to the grocery store to buy it all and then come home and put it all away. 😩 It would take several hours on the weekend and I hated it. I am one of those people who always looks at cookbooks and online for new recipes at the time that I am menu planning. I absolutely love your advice to do that through the week. That way when it comes to my menu plan, I already have done all of the searching before hand. I don’t know why I didn’t think of that before hand. To do a little bit through the week is going to make my actual planning and shopping day so much faster. Thank you! 😁
It makes such a difference 😂🤷♀️
Invest on an instant pot and an air-fryer/airfryer oven. At work they thought I am a good cook LOL....
Don’t forget to take inventory of what you already in have in your pantry and freezer. That way you don’t have to buy as much stuff and you don’t possibly waste what you already have. My problem is staying consistent. I love the idea of scheduling meal planning.
Definitely ☺️
Great tips! I keep a running list of our favorite meals by ethnicity such as Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Comfort Foods, Family Favorites, etc. Then I have a variety to pull from in a heart beat when planning my weekly menu. ~ Happy Planning!
That’s a great way to organize them!!
Your videos are helping me so much! I’m going to start implementing your meal planning tips, thank you!
This was a really helpful way to look at meal planning. I have dozens of cookbooks, recipes torn from magazines, recipes printed out, my Mom's recipes, and multiple Pinterest boards of meal ideas. I'm thinking about doing a giant purge just to get the weight of it off my mind. Just because a recipe looks good doesn't mean I'll actually ever make it!
It gets so overwhelming doesn’t it 😆
Aww! I used to run Awana at my church. It was a free night for me because we served hot dinner. The best! We have very similar meal planning styles!
I can't wait to try this! I am terrible at menu planning and that is a goal I have , to finally menu plan! You are always so inspiring!
Thank you so much, I really do hope this helps you get started!!!
Hello Annie,
I am so excited to use your method of planning meals. I don't know why I never considered just planning one meal per day lol. You are my hero!!
Awww thank you ☺️ Good luck, I hope it goes well for you!
Don’t get how there are thumbs down. There are SO many tips here! Appreciate sharing your tricks! I don’t know why I didn’t think of “what do we normally order at restaurants”? 🤦🏻♀️🙏🏼
I ignore the thumbs down 😆🤷♀️ Thanks so much for watching!!
Erika Ramirez I mean she is a little patronizing 🤷♀️ it’s a video for adults after all
@@judegrindvoll8467 She didn't come across patronizing to me at all. I need her detailed explanation because I'm clueless so it's a matter of preference I suppose.
I didn't thumbs down bc I don't want to be that person but I'm so confused why she has to do all of this, when she's married? why doesn't her husband help
I love your methods for planning, thanks for sharing!
Loved the video. Where did you get your menu planner?
It is from designsbyplannerperfect.com and is called a “menu planner” 💕
really love your approach! I meal plan a similar way. I like the way you explained how you do each step & how to get the most out of the time you spend meal planning. thank you!
this was so helpful! i have never used my planner as a wallet, but I do have card holders in it, so I guess it is supposed to be used as a wallet :D i'll be doing this. And thank you so much for the advice to not search for recipes when planning and to not think that we're stuck to the day's menu, but to choose from what we set out to make. Thank you so much for all of this.
My children are older, so there are four adults in our house. I make a roast dinner on a Sunday, the girls make two choices each and my husband and I have a choice each. That way everyone gets at least one meal each week that they enjoy. I leave the menu plan out on a Saturday for people to make their choices. Because I have a delivery slot booked for Sunday I have a deadline for when I have to complete my order. Once the shopping is delivered to us on a Sunday I plan the choices into the week depending on everyone’s plans and the best before dates on the fresh products. Then I write it on the whiteboard in the kitchen so everyone knows how the week looks. We have also introduced that if it’s your meal choice, you wash the dishes, unfortunately I still mostly do all the cooking.
I like that system! It sounds lovely- minus you being the chef all the time 😆
Thank you. It works well for us and takes the pressure off me trying to plan the whole week myself. I do my shopping list like you. Choices on the left shopping list on the right.
Will you please share your recipe for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
It’s a recipe I found via Pinterest: dinnerthendessert.com/philly-cheese-steak-sloppy-joes/
This is such a great video. I am planning it right now. Thank you
I’m so glad it’s helpful ❤️
Love it! I'm starting this this week using a Hobonichi weeks.
Love it 👍🏻😍 thank you
New to your channel. Enjoyed watching this and will definitely schedule in a set time to do my meal planning? I often forget what things I have in the freezer, (food or meats I buy in large packages). Do you keep a list of that, or how would manage that to make sure those are used?
I rarely have extras in my freezer or pantry. I try to keep only what we’re going to eat that week. But I just quick take a look before ordering my groceries to confirm that I don’t order something I already have.
❤ these ideas
I love that wallet! So smart! I hate trying to juggle my planner at the store.
It’s an amazing combo ❤️❤️❤️
Where did you get this planner cover. Did it come with a strap to attach where the grommets are?
We've been planning our menus for years (ever since we moved in together so about 12-13 years). Less shopping trips, confidence that we know what we will eat in the upcoming week, flexibility with meals - you can't beat that. I do it in a similar way as you. I write down all the meals, then list all the stuff that will be needed, but I do it on a5 sheet of paper which gets discarded (I take just one piece of paper with me to the shop and I don't need to hold on to my shopping list afterwards really). I use Hobonichi Weeks where I have a spot for my meals during the week.
Love it 😍
From other videos I've seen, the advantage to keeping it all is that when you get to a busy or hard season of life, you can, if necessary, just repeat the week before. Or the 4 weeks before on rotation, if it's going to be hard for a while.
@@elizabethgrosvenor153 Yes, it makes sense for sure:) I just don't keep my shopping list.
Where did you get the book insert that has the menu and shopping errands on it
I do meal prep per week at least 2 -3 menus but mostly 2 menus. I have a column for what I have on my pantry/fridge or freezer that way I can plan my menu with what I have. I also have a small book that I wrote all my favorite easy dishes that I collected from TH-cam/pinterest. Actually one doctor took a picture of those recipes that I collected. I set a day browsing the interne for those collections. One thing with those recipes that I collected, ingredients can be mix/match. I almost always use my instant pot and air-fryer. I also took a day mixing my own spices and jar it for easy and quick to marinate meats. example of those recipes are: Fajita bowls, taco bowls or mediterranean bowls which easily be converted for regular tacos or burritos, For 2020, I would like to be consistent on writing the foods that I am eating specially those extras or detour meals. Thanks for sharing.
Amazing ideas and systems!!!
Another tip, check your frozen leftovers and plug them into your busy days 👍
Yes! (We never have leftovers so I forgot this step 😂)
Loved your video Annie! Looking forward to more information on menu planning, you explain it so well! Thank you
Thank you ☺️
Which pages do you use in your PP journal? Trying to figure out which journal you use. Love your system
I use them all ☺️
Thank you for this! I especially appreciate how you pointed out how important meal planning is!
I think we forget how important and helpful it can be ☺️
Great tips and explanation. TFS.
Great video
I’ve been trying out menu themes and that’s really made it so much more simple. So like, Mexican, Italian, Asian, Burgers or Pizza, etc., then on say Mexican day I can choose anything in that category: enchiladas, burritos, tacos. That way it limits me but yet still gives options in case everyone is tired of tacos (wait, that never happens in real life does it?). You did a great job explaining your system thank you! I hope in your next video you address your shopping system-grocery delivery. Woot!
That’s a great idea!!!
Great tips! And yes! One free spirit here! I’ve always sort of menu planned in my head and purchased the same weekly staples for meals and cooked based on my mood of the day. 🤗 I like your idea of writing down menu ideas. I’ve had a page in my planner for over a year with the heading, “favorite meals,” but it’s blank. 🤦🏻♀️ I really like the idea of choosing menu ideas from the types of meals when we like when we eat out. That would be tacos. We could eat tacos everyday. Thanks for sharing! Really helpful tips. ❤️❤️❤️ Joy2plan
Yup, I love tacos too 😂
I do plan my own meals but mine are pretty much the same as I am vegan and usually eat the same thing most days. However, I do need to plan my shopping list because I eat a lot of fresh, raw, natural foods and need to replenish! Like your meal planning tips!
Yes, those fresh fruits and veg have to be purchased closer to eating and more often :)
I go through streaks...no consistency....maybe your tips will help. I’m the free spirit...the seven choices idea is more me. I already have a leftover day due to a tight schedule. I used “Hello Fresh” for a while and liked that I had three meals with ingredients ready to go and I would just fill in the rest....but I’m trying save some money so I discontinued that service. It was nice though, but maybe I can get the same benefit cheaper by using your system... thanks for sharing!
This really does seem like a great system!☺ I've been wanting to try meal planning but I'm not sure yet. This gives me some great ideas☺
It will save so much time and energy when you start ☺️
I spied hamburg gravy on your list. One of our favorites! Outside our family, I don't know anyone else who makes it. So good!
Good eye! Yes, we’ve come to love it. I can’t believe how simple and hearty it is.
I grew up on hamburg gravy... love!
I find that my favorite pens are Pilot G2, but .5 skips sometimes, 1.0 bold can be messy, so my favorite is .7
I love medium pens 🥰🥰🥰
I do this!! And just for our dinner meal! And I love how much easier it makes things. Thank you for many tips though I’m glad I watched this video!
Thank you so much ☺️
This sounds like a good method, and I’m looking forward to implementing it. Especially the part about not browsing recipes! I just have a question. How do you ensure you’re getting the right balance of nutrition in your meals? That’s what’s been hanging me up on getting started with meal planning.
I focus on a protein then fill with green veggies and sometimes healthy carbs. That’s what I love about Trim Healthy Mama, you don’t have to obsess over numbers 🎉
Annie Smith Thanks! :-)
We really need to make our meal planning appointment for Sunday. With six adults in the house, plus long work schedules with our business, dinners get hectic😬! Our days also include a possible 4 more adults in our house visiting and eating meals here. My husband and I do have our favorites lists created now we just need to stay consistent! It really helps to know what’s on the weekly plan. I always have to make more for dinner because the leftovers are eaten for lunches(or breakfast)😁! I still use the shopping at the store the old fashioned way as my exercise and steps, plus a chance to get out of the house, my office is here🤣! But we are all ‘free spirits’ here and just need a 1 through 6 list ( Our Friday’s are pizza 🍕)😀! Thank you for sharing your methods and for reminding me that it doesn’t have to be that hard💗🤗!
I really hope you guys find a good system and are able to work it ❤️❤️❤️
This was very helpful to me! Thanks.
nice video :-) my husband changes the menu up most days but I don't mind because it's the same meat item that I chose for that day my kids complain until they eat dinner and then they rave about it.
Hehehehe 😆
I plan this way! Sometimes I do 3 days at a time.
Nice ☺️
Where did you get the menu/shopping list book?
There's a link in the description box, but I don't know which specific planner in that stores is the one she uses🤔 I took a look and the "12 month planner" is $40!
Yes, the link is in the description box and this exact insert is a Menu Book.
We meal plan the same way! Now that my daughter is grown and gone I made a new one for my husband and I and gave her my old setup. Meal planning saves you money, time and sanity! lol Thanks for sharing this!
Exactly how I meal plan too, works so well
As a free spirit, I love this. I love leftovers too. When I'm having a rough day, having frozen left overs make it easy to have a good meal that is "fend for yourself".
awesome idea and great advice!
Thank you ☺️
I have been using this meal planning system for many years. I love it. I have tried to go digital so many times and it never sticks. I love my planner.
Amen 🙏🏻 haha, it’s so simple and adaptable, it’s the best way that I have found these last ten or more years.
I love this. I have been meal planning for my family since high school (I have always loved to cook) since my mom always went shopping. I have been married 24 years. I would be lost without meal planning.
Do you or have you ever used the planner perfect meal planner journal?? Wondering if the 21.00+additional charge is worth it or should I just do a journal and list meals similar to yours❤️
I have used it and it’s really amazing if you want a layout already made for you. Or you could save money and just draw your own. ☺️
I love the 7 ideas option!
Organization of any kind, for any facet of your life, is good stewardship. Each day has a limited amount of time, limited amount of energy, and those limits need to be acknowledged and respected. In reality, however we choose to live, we are exchanging a limited personal resource ( our time and energy) for each thing we add to our day. I prioritize things that need to be done keeping in mind the things that are most important to me. So, reading to my kids has a higher priority than dusting the furniture. The kids get more of my limited time and energy than the dust bunnies under the couch. I am not justifying living in a dirty home, I am planning by taking into account the absolute limits we all have on our time and energy.
Amen 🙏🏻❤️
where did you get your menu/grocery list from?
I have my Menu Plan Book linked in the description box; it's from Designs By Planner Perfect :)
Thank you! Great tips.
OMG!! This is super helpful for my goal to do less eat out and more home cooking. THANK YOU SO MUCH !!!
I’m so glad it was inspiring ❤️
Where did you get your inserts?
They are linked in the description box, they are from a shop called Designs By Planner Perfect.
Do you have a place holder, because I see the week's are not dated.
I don’t, so I have to flip through my pages every time 🤷♀️😆
Dovenflight if that’s a deal breaker just use a fun paper clip or page flag for the current week.
When does the info actually start?
SunshineFair1 10:26
Maria Corneil thanks 😊
SunshineFair1 You’re welcome. 😁 Best of luck with your planning.
AWANA!! Great! PTL.
We are a family of Mum, Dad and 4 teens who all have a turn at cooking. It would be straightforward if they chose what they wanted to cook and I just bought what they needed, actually I did at the start of this process but was spending wayyyyyy more on food. I shop the specials each week, but then no one knows what they are cooking. We loose track of each other as everyone is in and out. The plan is falling apart and everyone is phoning it in! Help!!
Yikes! It sounds like you definitely need to pick a system and get everyone on board. When I try to spend less per week I keep track of what meats we serve- I try to buy bulk ground beef that I can use for 2-4 meals that week so I’m saving money. Chicken breast is another that I buy bulk and split between two meals. This way I’m spending less per meal. Maybe you can give each person a dollar amount and their meal ingredients have to add up to that amount or they have to select another recipe. That way you can budget for the week but still give everyone the choice for their meal???
@@AnnieSmithawifenmother Hey nice idea on the budget! I'll put it to the vote! lol I used to love cooking but with fussy eaters who were disappointed every meal I got very over it. So now they all have to cook too and while they learn new skills they also learn what it's like to be on the other end of the meal prep!
Have you ever shopped for more than one week at a time?
I used to do two weeks at a time, but one week fits our family better now. Other than that, no.
I LOVED the way you explained everything. So helpful for someone starting out with meal planning. Are you by chance a teacher? If not should be.😉
I’m a homeschool mama, so close enough 😆
You said self care...well there goes that I hate self care..I always feel crappy taking time for me..its selfish.
Doesn't matter what I do im just not smart enough to meal plan..I all ways fail at planning and have no idea how to shop...it just doesn't work for me...
My husband is tired of tacos since his coworkers would always go for tacos and work...im lucky to eat tacos once a month..but he is starting to be leaving for work soo I can eat tacos the whole week 🙃.
New habits are easier when we take small steps. Maybe try one new recipe a week and spend an hour per week doing whatever you want. And then build from there.
I think you have important information presented in good order and a pleasant voice. However, I don't like watching your hands bob around. I use the time you are talking to examine the examples you are showing us. So you get 5 Stars out of 5 Stars.
You say your going to jump in then you keep talking. To much talkinh
Hehehehe I really do try. 🤪