Thrifty Epiphany

Yesterday, I came to the sudden realization that I had spent my allotted amount on food for our monthly budget. But, as of Monday, there were still five days in which to provide meals before the end of the month. With a handful of recipe ideas in hand, I rummaged through the cupboard, discovering the hidden contents of our food stores. Honestly, I didn't think we would have enough to do it as I picked up a can of jalapenos, scanned our food storage and tossed out some rotting greens.

As I brainstormed ideas, I wrote them out on the white board. Not only will we not starve but we are actually going to be able to get some hefty nutritional meals in the process. Yea for creative dinner ideas! When Dave came home and saw the impromptu menu presented on the board, he exclaimed, "Wow, it's like we live in a cafe"! That sparked another thought - if I planned meals for the entire month like this, I could save gads of money and time. I know this is not a revelation to anyone else, but it was like a light going on for little old me.

With that, here is our the end-of-the month, bottom-of-the-barrel, menu lowdown (not too bad, huh?!):

• Monday - Salsa Chicken Salad with Whole Wheat Rolls
• Tuesday - Beef Stroganoff, Steamed Green Beans & Cherry Jell-O w/Mandarin Oranges
• Wednesday - Chili with Whole Wheat Rolls
• Thursday - Beef Barley Soup with Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
• Friday - Baked Salmon, Brown Rice and Green Salad