menu planning

I am an organizer.  But I am also crazy-busy most of the time.  So in order to help me plan meals, or at least have the ideas handy, I have created a food calendar.

I need something that I have handy all the time - like my phone - that has the recipes on it.  I created a Google Calendar, listing meal suggestions for most days.  No problem if I don't use that recipe on that day, but the recipes are all available on my phone whenever I look for them!  This is especially helpful when I'm at the grocery store & can't remember what I need!

Menu Planning

Each recipe is completely uploaded into Google Calendar, including a web site where I got the recipe from, side recipe suggestions, nutrition information, etc.  When I look at the recipe on my phone, it gives me all info immediately - whereas when I look at it on my computer, I have to "edit" the recipe to see everything.

It takes a while to get the recipes uploaded to begin with, but the payoff is great!  I've had folks ask for a certain recipe, which I am able to whip out and share.  I've also had folks ask to join my Calendar, which Google makes easy - I just go to Settings / Calendars / click on my calendar name / Share This Calendar / then add their email address.  I make the settings so they can see my calendar if they choose to, but cannot make any changes to it.  I typically have ebbs and flows of when I use this tool - more often during summer, when I'm home more; and less often when I'm in school, because I'm so busy.  But, whether or not I use it for daily planning, the recipes are still available!

Here is a great alternative for someone who doesn't want to put in the time and work to set up a Google Calendar food calendar.  I came across this wonderfully inspiring blog, with her menu's already made out!  There are several bloggers who do this, & if you search for them (Pinterest is a great place to look), most have a free download that you can try.

http://www.confessionsofahomeschooler.com/blog/2011/07/monthly-meal-planner-august-2011.html

Of course, the fact that she is a HomeSchooler makes it even better!

Keep cooking - because people keep eating!!  See you in May!

Maggie