we're back.

Hi, hey, and hello. We had such a wonderful weekend with our dear friends in Santa Cruz. We rested a lot, went out to eat, played at the beach, watched a really great movie that you all should see (I think we're all better people from watching it), had some good talks and good laughs, played speed scrabble, went to the flea market, walked around down town, and just enjoyed really great company. We came home on the 101 and it was such a beautiful drive. Wish you could've all seen the sunset. Also stopped in Santa Barbara and spent some time walking around. We hope to go back in February. Got home around 8:45 with a lot of love for each other, some dirty laundry, and a deep desire for a pup that we already have a plan for!

Any how, I've been wanting to share something with you all that Eri encouraged me to share (I believe she said it would change her life). Meal planning. We all love to hate it or hate to love it or have some struggle with staying within a budget, having a variety of meals, and shopping for the groceries. So I'd like to help a little bit, but only if you also promise to help me. Because while I love to plan and stroll the aisles of any grocery store, I'm still learning. And I've got a ways to go.

When I lived alone I would be quite content with a bowl of white rice for dinner. Sprinkle some soy sauce on that baby and I'd be good to go. But for some reason a bowl of rice just doesn't satisfy my husband. So I have quadrupled my grocery budget from $60 a month to $250. That might sound like a lot to you, but keep in mind we eat out maybe once a month. Other than that, all our food is cooked at home by yours truly (and Danny). Oh, and we really like to have people over. (hint hint)

We both like to know what's coming. I remember being a little girl and asking my mom after breakfast: Hey mom, what's for dinner? So I have a paper on my fridge that says what each day's dinner will be. I'm going to share it with all of you so you might be that much more inspired to plan out your meals as best as you can. I'll also list what food you'll need to buy. Most of it will be pretty standard stuff (in my opinion). And, of course, it will be nice to your wallet. That's important around here.

Monday - Mexican salad
You'll need: romaine, chicken, salsa, creamy cilantro dressing (or any of your choice...ranch works well, too), corn, crushed tortilla chips, romaine, tomatoes, shredded cheese, black beans, anything else you want to throw in there to make this salad a full meal...the more the merrier! You can also serve with little quesadilla triangles. Nothing like a good presentation.
Tuesday - Quiche
You'll need: 3 eggs, milk, 1 T flour, pie crust (we use Pillsbury pre-made ones), sausage (optional), parmesan, mushrooms (optional), s&p. You can really put anything in these things...they're great. I like to serve mine with a side salad or some french bread & brie.
Wednesday - Trader Joe's orange chicken, steamed rice & stir fry veggies
You'll notice a trend with our Wednesday meals. We only have a window of time to eat because youth group is on Wednesdays. So it is usually fast, easy, and partially frozen. :) You'll need: just what is listed.
Thursday - burgers & sweet potato fries & fresh fruit
Thursday is Danny's day to cook. I have school til 6 and usually sit in traffic for an hour, so by the time I get home dinner is cooked and ready to go. It's grand. You'll need: buns, burgers (him- beef, me- chicken), cheese slices (I guess this is optional, but not in my opinion), sweet potatoes, EVOO, fresh fruit (you pick), s&p, and any condiments you fancy.
Friday - apple-walnut cheese ravioli & side salad
Fridays are my fav. We usually cook together, take our time, and are usually accompanied with a glass of wine. Sometimes, just sometimes, we eat it in front of a good movie. You'll need: walnuts, EVOO, crispy apple, parsley, cheese ravioli, s&p, parmesan, romaine, tomatoes, and a dressing of your choice. Recipe found on Real Simple.

Please share with me what your family is eating this week. Okay? Lovely. That is all for this fine, overcast, cool day. Looks like we brought a bit of Santa Cruz home with us. Hip hip!