The Meal Planner's Creed

Several months ago, I came across The Meal Planner's Creed, seen above. I can't remember where I first saw it, but it's popped up on several homemaking blogs. Originally from a 1940s cookbook, the creed was a wake up call of sorts. Over the last several months, I had really let meal planning and prep slide to the wayside. I said it was because we were so busy prepping for our move, but let's be honest. At least part of it was laziness.

I've got a ways to go before I'll be able to get up before dawn. ;)

My heart was convicted and I began asking the Lord to stir up a servant's heart within me, to help  me find JOY in serving my family in this way. With his empowering grace, I've been discovering joy and contentment in the process.

Since one of the ways I serve my family is through meal planning and preparation, I wanted to share our menu for the next few weeks. When possible, I've linked to recipes on the web. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comments! I'm on a budget, so when shopping, I simply choose the best quality I can and leave any guilt at the door. ;)

Oh, and I don't normally include this many homemade bread options, but I'm just in the mood to bake lately. :) Also, my daughters have developed more of an interest in food prep and this is an easy way to involve them in the kitchen. So here it is, 15 meals for the next few weeks!

Ham and Cheese Stromboli

• Seven Layer Mexican Dip (refried beans, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, tomatoes, black olives, green onions, salsa-served COLD), Tortilla Chips (for family movie night!)
• Ham and Cheese Stromboli (made with homemade bread), Glazed Carrots
• Crockpot "Baked" Potatoes, Salad

Roasted Chicken; Photo credit Nourished Kitchen

• Roasted Whole Chicken (I don't follow this exactly, but it's close to what I do; I'll use the carcass to make bone broth), Green Beans, Roasted red potatoes
• Bean 'n' Cheese Burritos
• Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes, Homemade Hot Rolls (not my exact recipe, but very close....I use the same basic recipe for the Stromboli and Chicken Bundles)
• Tuna Noodle Casserole (made with homemade cream of celery soup), Veggie
• Pancakes and Sausage (for family night)
• Oven Fried Chicken, Roasted Veggies

• Chicken Gyros with Yogurt Sauce
• Ground Turkey Tostadas

• Crockpot Beef Dip Sammies (with homemade onion and au jus seasonings) with Homemade Sandwich Buns
• Chicken Bundles (made with homemade bread), Veggie
• Biscuits, Bacon and Eggs (family night)
• Veggie Stirfry over Rice

What are some of the ways you serve your own family? Do you find that it comes naturally?

Blessings,
April