We Give Thanks...

february weeks 3-4 / march week 1

2012-02-20T08:13:00.000-08:00

Monday -- President's Day
dinner: pork and au jus, buttered rice, bacon fried corn, Lincoln Log

Tuesday
dinner: ravioli w/ sauce and sausage

Wednesday--Ash Wednesday
dinner: scrambled eggs, fried potatoes, canned fruit

Thursday
dinner: chicken parmesan casserole, salad

Friday
dinner: baked macaroni and cheese, stir fried veggies

Saturday
dinner: grilled balsamic steak,crash hot potatoes, roasted cauliflower

Sunday--Joshua's birthday
dinner: bbq chicken pizza, buttermilk ranch salad, supreme chocolate cheesecake

Monday
dinner: poached eggs, fried potatoes

Tuesday
dinner: carnitas, tortillas, salsa, guacamole, rice,

Wednesday
dinner: jamie's chicken chow mein, egg rolls

Thursday
sinner: soup and grilled cheese,bacon paninis

* Tried and true

* New to me

february weeks 2-3

2012-02-03T16:24:00.000-08:00

We ate last week, but the menu was sort of created day-by-day. We ate roast chicken, chicken cacciatore, au gratin potatoes and ham, chicken enchiladas, and grilled cheese and soup. Nothing very exciting, but all homemade.

We are working our way toward birthday season in our house, first Faith's and then Joshua's at the end of the month. This weekend we have the big game, and though we don't have a pony in the race and I won't watch at all, we'll definitely enjoy game day food.

Saturday
Dinner: pulled pork sandwiches, cole slaw, sweet potato fries

Sunday
Dinner: loaded potato skins, kansas city chicken wings, layered taco dip and chips,
roasted garlic bean dip and pita chips, hanky pankies

Monday
Dinner: Poached eggs and toast, fruit

Tuesday
Dinner: Pasta with sauce and sausage, bread, salad

Wednesday
Dinner: Hamburgers, tater tots, veggie sticks

Thursday
Dinner: Grilled Turkey, Cheese and Chili Mayo, tomato soup

Sunday
Dinner: Beef Goulash and noodles, steamed green beans

Monday
Dinner: Pasta e Fagioli, bread

Tuesday -- Valentine's Day
Dinner: maple and soy glazed steak, broccolo arrabiata, twice baked potatoes, homemade funfetti cupcakes

Wednesday
Dinner: Buffalo Chicken Paninis, salad

Thursday
Dinner: Hearty Ham and Potato Soup, bread

Friday -- Birthday girls' request
Dinner: Fried chicken, green beans, mashed potatoes

* Tried and true

* new to me

january: weeks 3-4

2012-01-17T06:24:00.000-08:00

Monday
Dinner: best beef enchiladas, black beans, shredded cabbage

Tuesday
dinner: eggs Benedict, hash browns, fruit salad

Wednesday
Dinner: homemade pasta, sauce with sausages, bread

Thursday
dinner: tender and crisp chicken legs with sweet tomatoes, polenta
http://www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/chicken-recipes/tender-chicken-legs-with-tomatoes

Friday
Dinner: payday pizza

Sunday
Dinner: pulled pork sandwiches, veggie chips, white bean dip

Monday
Dinner: buttermilk pancakes, bacon, fruit

Tuesday
Dinner: new England dinner, bread

Wednesday
dinner: beans and wieners, cornbread

Thursday
Dinner:
corned beef hash and fried eggs

Friday
Dinner: turkey Reuben's, sweet potato fries

dinner:

january weeks 1-2

2012-01-02T09:26:00.000-08:00

Ah, the beginning of a new year. As I am normally inclined to do after the season of overdoing, I set a personal goal of preparing better (healthier), yet more simple meals for my family. Not as easy as it sounds since I also hope to spend less on groceries. I'm looking for recipes with fewer ingredients, but not pricey ingredients. I am trying a few of Jamie Oliver's recipes this month. I find his recipes easy to make and very healthy, but I admit I haven't tried many.

Monday
Lunch: poached eggs and toast (made yummy bread yesterday for today's toast)
Dinner: buttermilk pancakes, sausage links, clementine's

Tuesday
Dinner: tomato soup and grilled cheese paninis (my in-laws gave us a panini press for Christmas)

Wednesday
Dinner: chicken chow mein
(will double for us)

Thursday
Dinner: Southwestern omelets (omelets with black beans, salsa and sour cream), fried potatoes

Friday
Dinner: roast chicken and lemon and rosemary potatoes, steamed green beans

Saturday
Dinner: pizza

Sunday
Brunch: jalapeno cheddar breakfast bake, fruit, potato rounds
Dinner: wicked kebobs, roasted potatoes

Monday
Dinner: blt benedict with avocado and tomato relish, classic coffee cake

Tuesday
Dinner: teriyaki burgers, sweet potato fries

Wednesday
Dinner: lentil and macaroni soup, grilled cheese paninis

Thursday
Dinner: baked macaroni and cheese, salmon patties, buttered peas

Friday
Dinner: steak and salsa verde, cottage potatoes, chopped salad with buttermilk ranch

Saturday
Dinner: creole shrimp and sausage stew, rice, bread

Sunday
Dinner: best beef enchiladas, black beans, shredded cabbage

* tried and true

* new to me

50-51

2011-12-14T09:44:00.000-08:00

Saturday
Sausage And pepper sandwiches, baked pasta

Sunday
Italian Roast Beef, fried potatoes

Tuesday
Sausage gravy and biscuits, fried eggs, St. Lucy buns

Wednesday
Beef and noodles (leftover Italian beef), green beans

Thursday
pizza or subs

Friday

Red beans and rice, bread, salad

Sunday
Chicken cordon bleu, mashed potatoes, green beans

Monday
Pierogies and Bacon

Tuesday
Chili and fritos

Wednesday
Soft Spicy Chicken Tacos, Yellow Rice

Thursday
Cornmeal Gnocci and marinara, salad

Friday
Dinner:Jalapeno Cheddar Breakfast Bake, fruit, potato rounds

Weeks 48-49

2011-11-27T17:01:00.000-08:00

Monday
Dinner: Beef and noodles (beef and gravy from the freezer; fresh noodles), steamed carrots

Tuesday
Dinner: Bowties and marinara, salad, rolls

Wednesday--Feast of St. Andrew
Dinner: Tuna casserole, peas and carrots, Scottish shortbread cookies

Thursday
Dinner: subs and salad

Friday
Dinner: Dinner: Topopo salad

Saturday
Dinner: Saturday night pizza

Sunday
Dinner: Grilled Burgers, sweet potato fries, slaw

Monday
Dinner: Oven baked BBQ chicken, mashed potatoes, buttered corn

Tuesday--Feast of St. Nicholas
Chicken cordon bleu, buttered noodles, green beans, Speculatius cookies

Wednesday
Dinner: Buttermilk pancakes, bacon, sautéed apples

Thursday
Dinner: subs and salad

Friday
Dinner: Chili con carne a la Nigella on baked potatoes, salad

Weeks 46-47

2011-11-14T16:12:00.001-08:00

Ah. Thanksgiving is almost here. I have 18 family members coming and no menu. It's a good thing we like the same thing every year! Until then I'm going to try and keep meals simple. I am planning up to Thanksgiving and I'll post my Thanksgiving menu at a later date.

Monday
Dinner: Hamburgers with blue cheese and bacon

Sweet Potato Fries
Cucumber Tomato Salad

Tuesday
Dinner: Overnight French Toast
Sausages
clementine oranges

Wednesday
Dinner: Crab Cakes
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Steamed Green Beans
House Salad

Thursday -- Feast of St. Elizabeth of Hungary
Dinner: Chicken Gyros

St. Elizabeth's Crown Cake

Friday
Dinner: Asian Turkey Meatballs
White Rice
Broccoli

Saturday
Dinner: Chipotle Beef Stew in Squash Boats
Dinner Rolls

Monday
Dinner: Potsticker Soup, Egg Rolls

Tuesday
Dinner: Pizza Rolls
Salad

Wednesday
Dinner: Ham and Egg Casserole
Cinnamon Toast

* Tried and true

* New to me

Weeks 44-45

2011-10-29T07:53:00.000-07:00

Beginning October 29

Saturday: Avocado dogs and Macaroni and cheese, Pumpkin Cookies with Browned Butter Icing

Sunday: Crispy Baked Chicken Teriyaki, steamed broccoli, rice, Lemon Meringue Pie

Monday-- All Hallow's Eve: Jamie's Chili and Fritos

Tuesday -- All Saint's Day: Creamy Cauliflower Soup, bread

Wednesday -- All Soul's Day: Slow cooked pork chops, mashed potatoes, green beans, Soul Cakes

Thursday: Tacos, fresh fruit

Friday -- Feast of St. Charles Borromeo: Chicken Gnocci Soup, garlic bread, Cardinal Sundaes

Saturday: Saturday Night Pizza

Sunday: Chicken and Dumplings

Monday: Scrambled Eggs, Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins, sliced apples

Tuesday: Creamy Sausage and Tomato Pasta, garlic bread

Wednesday: Grilled Chicken Quesadillas, beans and rice

Thursday: Potsticker Soup, Egg Rolls

Friday -- Feast of St. Martin of Tours: Chicken Tamale Casserole, black beans, Chocolate Filled St. Martin Croissants

* Tried and true

* new to me

Weeks 41-42

2011-10-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

Two weeks works -- yeah! I managed to buy two weeks worth of groceries using one cart all by myself. It really wasn't much more of a chore than one week (though checking out is always a pain where I shop because there are no baggers). So, I am planning for two weeks again.

I have a surgery planned for Monday (if I don't get the cold and fevers the kids now have), so I'm taking it easy on the cooking this week. It's a vein surgery (in case you're interested) and the doctor said I should be back up on my feet the next day, so here's to hoping! My mom is cooking for me on Monday -- sweet!

Tuesday
Dinner: Lasagna (in the freezer from a double batch), garlic bread, green beans

Wednesday
Dinner: Pulled Pork sandwiches (in the freezer from a double batch), onion rings

Thursday
Dinner: Skillet Spaghetti, salad, Sauteed Summer Squash

Friday
Dinner :Black Beans and rice, salad

Saturday -- Feast of St. Theresa of Avila
Dinner: Saturday Night Pizza,

Flan

Sunday
Dinner: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham, homemade applesauce, green beans with bacon

Monday
Dinner: Pork with Carolina Gravy (in the freezer from a double batch), mashed potatoes, glazed carrots

Tuesday
Dinner: Wedding Soup, flatbread

Thursday
Dinner: Pierogies and Bacon, Rye bread, vegetable

Saturday
Dinner: Chicken Quesadillas on the grill, guacamole, salsa and chips

Sunday
Dinner: Crispy Baked Chicken Teriyaki, steamed broccoli, rice, Lemon Meringue Pie

* Tried and true

Weeks 39-40

2011-09-26T05:25:00.000-07:00

A reader at Bless Us O Lord, in a comment on a grocery shopping post I did about a month ago, suggested that I ease my grocery shopping woes by planning out two weeks of meals. I rarely shop for more than one week at a time only because shopping is then double the chore, and I have to use two carts; but I shopped for two weeks worth of meat on Saturday and decided I really should try to shop for two weeks worth of groceries. I dislike shopping enough that it will most likely be worth the effort.

Monday
Dinner: Beef and Noodles, green vegetable, rolls

Tuesday
Dinner: Sriracha Stir Fry, white rice

Wednesday
Dinner: Chicken Noodle Soup

Thursday -- Feast of the Archangels
Dinner: Skyline Chili,
Chocolate Angel Food Cake

Friday
Dinner: Bacon Fried Rice, Asian Broccoli

Saturday _ Feast of St. Therese
Dinner: Spanish Pan Roast, bread, salad, St. Therese cupcakes

Monday
Dinner: Black Beans and rice, salad

Tuesday - Feast of St. Francis of Assisi
Dinner: Grilled Chicken and Caprese Salsa, Risotto,
St. Francis Tonsure Cake

Wednesday -- Feast of St. Faustina
Dinner: Pierogies and Bacon, Rye bread, vegetable

Thursday
Dinner: Crunchy Chicken Casserole

Friday
Dinner: Sloppy Joes, french fries

Saturday
Dinner: Chicken Taquitoes, rice, fresh fruit

Sunday
Dinner: Minestrone Soup, bread

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 38

2011-09-20T08:32:00.001-07:00

Saturday
Lunch: skyline chili
Dinner: Lasagna, bread, salad, green beans

Sunday
Dinner: Yankee Pot roast, carrots, potatoes, turnips

Monday
Dinner: Chicken taco salad

Tuesday
Dinner: Roast chicken, potato pancakes, green beans

Wednesday
Dinner: Mushroom and bacon omelets, fruit, muffins

Thursday
Dinner: City Chicken, mashed potatoes, buttered corn

FridayHigh school homecoming game

Saturday
Dinner: Grilled steak, loaded baked potatoes, roasted vegetables

Sunday
Dinner: Grilled chicken, mashed winter squash, Bonefish salad

Week 37

2011-09-10T11:47:00.000-07:00

Saturday
Lunch: Hoagie Dip
Dinner: Pepperoni and Cheeseburger pizza

Sunday
Lunch: Grilled hot dogs and relish/sauerkraut
Dinner: Chicken Fried Steak Fingers, mashed potatoes, Apple Pie

Monday
Dinner: Nacho Burgers, French fries, fruit

Tuesday
Dinner: Carolina Pork Roast, mashed potatoes, green beans

Wednesday
Dinner: Pasta Carbonara with Corn and Chiles, salad, Triumph of the Holy Cross brownies

Thursday
Dinner: Yankee Pot Roast, carrots, potatoes, turnips

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 36

2011-09-02T11:32:00.000-07:00

Saturday
Lunch: Pepperoni pizza -- first Buckeye game of the season
Dinner: Cheese brats, Spinach tortellini salad, fruit, Root beer floats

Sunday
Lunch: subs
Dinner: Beef tenderloin, sauteed mushrooms, Bonefish Grill salad, bread, Classic Green Bean casserole, Pavlova, Chocolate Zucchini Cake

Monday
Lunch: BLTs
Dinner: Labor Day grill out/grandpa's birthday party at my in-laws. I am bringing Texas Sheet Cake and Bacon and Onion Potato Salad

Tuesday
Dinner: pasta shells with Nigella's chili and cheese on top and baked, Spinach and pumpkin seed salad

Wednesday
Dinner: Pulled pork sandwiches (freeze leftovers for BBQ pork potatoes another night), fresh fruit, chips

Thursday
Dinner: Skillet Stroganoff, green vegetable, biscuits

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 35

2011-08-27T08:24:00.000-07:00

Saturday
Dinner: Chopped Steak with Saturday Night Vidalia Onion, Corn Cakes and Tomato Relish

Sunday
Dinner: Ham and Gruyere Stuffed Potatoes, Plantation Beans, bread, Pumpkin Pie Mousse

Monday -- Feast of Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist
Dinner: Avocado Hot Dogs, chips and fresh fruit, Grasshopper Parfaits

Tuesday
Dinner: Pepper Steak (double meat for a freezer meal), white rice, bread

Wednesday
Dinner: Chicken Tacos (double meat for a freezer meal), yellow rice

Thursday
Dinner: Reubens, fresh fruit

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 33

2011-08-19T17:49:00.000-07:00

This week ahead is the first week of school for my 15-year-old son Noah -- the first year since kindergarten. I plan to celebrate his first day of high school with a special meal on Wednesday. My daughter had surgery to remove her tonsils and adenoids today, so we'll try to keep meals simple and soft for her for a week or so.

Sunday
Lunch: BELT sandwiches
Dinner: Potsticker soup and egg rolls

Monday -- Queenship of Mary
Dinner: Rosemary Balsamic Chicken, Ravioli and Spinach Salad, Blueberry Crumb Bars

Tuesday-- Feast of St. Rose of Lima
Dinner: Tortellini Soup and Italian Bread, Arroz con Leche

Wednesday
Dinner: President Reagan's Macaroni and Cheese, Fried Chicken, carrot sticks and ranch dressing

Thursday
Dinner: Cuban Black Beans and rice, green salad

Friday
Dinner: Dinner: Ham and Egg Casserole, fresh fruit, coffee cake

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 32

2011-08-13T09:57:00.000-07:00

I must admit I am tired of cooking dinner. If I remember correctly I get this way every summer near the end. I'm tired of seasonal produce and the effort when we are transitioning to school starting. I think I'm just plain tired. I'm going to try some new crock pot recipes as I think not fussing with dinner at 4 o'clock might just be the trick.

Saturday
Dinner: Beef Enchiladas, black beans and yellow rice

Sunday
Dinner: Blueberry Salad (without chicken), lemon herb grilled pork chops, shish kabob veggies

Monday -- Noah's Birthday
Dinner: Jalapeno Poppers, Filet Mignon, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Cucumber Tomato Salad, Chocolate Layered Cheesecake

Tuesday
Dinner: Crockpot Tortilla Soup

Wednesday
Dinner: Ham and Egg Casserole, fresh fruit

Thursday
Dinner: Slow Cooker Black Beans and Pork Tenderloin Chili, rice

Friday
Dinner: Potsticker soup and egg rolls

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 31

2011-08-05T19:37:00.000-07:00

I skipped a week, did you notice? I cooked and we ate, but it wasn't planned at all.

Sunday
Dinner: Chipotle Chicken Taco Salad, French bread

Monday
Dinner: Mongolian Beef, white rice, stir fried veggies

Tuesday
Dinner: Chili con Carne a la Nigella, salad

Wednesday
Dinner: Asian Barbecue Chicken Pizza

Thursday
Dinner: Best Beef Enchiladas, beans and rice

Friday
Dinner: Patty Melt Burgers, Onion Rings, salad

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 29

2011-07-26T11:50:00.000-07:00

Tuesday
Dinner: Spicy Asian lettuce wraps , Asian Broccoli, white rice

Wednesday
Dinner: Paula's Baked Spaghetti, bread, roasted vegetables, Frozen Key Lime Pie

Thursday
Dinner: Balsamic Steak and Camp Potatoes

Friday
Dinner: Lidia's Meatloaf with Ricotta, Polenta, Caesar Salad

Week 28

2011-07-15T14:27:00.000-07:00

.

Saturday -- Feast of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel
Dinner: Swiss and mushroom burgers, wilted spinach salad

Sunday
Dinner: Grilled Chicken, Au Gratin Potatoes, House Salad

Monday
Dinner: Pasta with sauce and sausage, Salad

Tuesday
Dinner: Smashed Sliders, Fruit salad, chips

Thursday
Dinner: Grilled Chicken Salad with Caprese Salsa, Risotto

.

Week 27

2011-07-08T08:03:00.000-07:00

Saturday
Dinner: Burgers and potato salad

Sunday
Dinner: Grilled Pork Chops, Wilted Spinach Salad, bread

Monday
Dinner: Chicken Nachos, fresh fruit

Tuesday
Dinner: Asian Chicken Salad (sort of like this), fresh fruit

Wednesday -- Feast of St. Henry
Dinner: Bratwurst, German Potato Salad, Bavarian Ice Cream with cherry sauce

Thursday -- Feast of Blessed Kateri
Dinner: Open Faced Blackened Catfish sandwich, Orange Cornmeal Cake

* Tried and true

* New to me

Fourth of July Weekend

2011-07-02T07:24:00.000-07:00

We are having two small get-togethers at our house this weekend, one on Sunday and one on Monday. Both will be family gatherings, but we'll have a yummy menu with which to celebrate Independence Day.

Saturday: Carrabba's Penne Franco, French Bread and Dipping Olive Oil, Carrabba's House Salad

Sunday: Korean Barbecue Wet Rub on Pork Tenderloin, Broccoli Salad, Asian Pasta Salad, Fireworks Sugar Cookies, Apple Dumplings, bottled soda pop, beer and wine

Monday: Barbecued Pork Back Ribs, Corn Avocado and Tomato Salad, Antipasto Pasta Salad, Oatmeal Brownie Milky Way Bars, Blackberry Pie

Tuesday: Tacos and Black Beans, sliced watermelon

Wednesday: Cavatappi and Summer Vegetables, bread and fresh fruit

Thursday: Avocado Dogs, Macaroni Salad, Cucumber Tomato Salad

Friday: Pizza

* Tried and true

* New to me

.

Week 25

2011-06-26T07:55:00.000-07:00

Sunday
Lunch: Sierra Turkey Sandwiches
Dinner: Shrimp, peppers and grits, bread, salad

Monday
Dinner: Chicken hot dogs w/ chili sauce, watermelon slices, potato salad

Tuesday
Dinner: Steak fajita pizza, fresh fruit

Wednesday
Dinner: Grilled veggie sandwich

Thursday
Dinner: Creamy Taco Mac, fruit salad

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 24

2011-06-17T16:49:00.000-07:00

Saturday
Lunch: Walking Tacos
Dinner: Roasted Vegetable Lasagna, bread, salad

Monday
Lunch: Hot dogs, veggie sticks
Dinner: Pulled Pork, Baked beans, fresh fruit

Tuesday
Lunch: Chicken wrap
Dinner: Grilled Chicken with Romaine and Pepita Salad

Wednesday
Lunch: Bagels and cream cheese

Thursday
Lunch: tuna salad sandwiches
Dinner: Chicken Gyros, Greek Salad

Friday
Lunch: pizza
Dinner: Shrimp, Peppers and Grits, Bread

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 23

2011-06-11T07:17:00.000-07:00

Sunday -- Pentecost Sunday
Lunch: BLTs and chips
Dinner: Jamie's wicked kebobs, Parmesan Garlic Orzo, Greek Salad, Pentecost Pie

Monday -- Feast of St. Anthony of Padua
Lunch: sandwiches and veggie sticks
Dinner: Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes, Cole slaw, watermelon, Chocolate Gelato

Tuesday:
Lunch: salad wraps
Dinner: Hawaiian grilled chicken, white rice, fresh fruit

Wednesday:
Dinner: Spicy Asian lettuce wraps, Asian Broccoli

Thursday
Lunch: meat and veggie wraps
Dinner: Grilled Jalapeno Cheddar Burgers, grilled veggies

Friday
Lunch: tuna salad
Dinner: Grilled pizza, salad

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 21

2011-05-30T12:14:00.000-07:00

Tuesday
Lunch: Hamburgers and oven fries
Dinner: Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad (chicken marinade here/dressing here)

Wednesday
Lunch: Cheese quesadillas and salsa
Dinner: Buttermilk Brined Pork Chops, baked potatoes, salad

Thursday
Lunch: pizza
Dinner: BLT and C salad, bread, watermelon

Friday
Lunch: California Veggie Wrap
Dinner: Bella Bruschetta Salad, hot pizza bread

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 20

2011-05-20T19:15:00.000-07:00

This week we are counting down to a high school grad party in a few weekends (menu for that party found here). I'm going to try to keep things pretty simple for dinners this week so I can start baking ahead.

Sunday
Lunch: Sausage Gravy and biscuits
Dinner: Creamy Chicken Tacquitos, Black beans, Yellow rice

Monday
Lunch: Corn dogs and carrot sticks
Dinner: Perogies, Bacon and Peas, Cream cheese apple dip

Tuesday
Lunch: Chicken wraps
Dinner: Hoagie Dip and Campbell's Tomato Soup

Wednesday
Lunch: chili and baked potatoes
Dinner: Whey Pancakes, Bacon, Fruit

Thursday
Lunch: Rachel Ray's Macaroni and Cheese
Dinner: Pasta and Marinara, salad, bread

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 19

2011-05-15T09:14:00.000-07:00

Sunday
Lunch: Sausage Egg Casserole
Dinner: Mongolian Beef, broccoli, rice

Monday
Lunch: Leftovers

Tuesday
Lunch: tuna salad
Dinner: Fried Potatoes and onion with chorizo, salad

Wednesday
Lunch: chili and potatoes
Dinner: Clam Chowder , Irish Potato Pancakes

Thursday
Lunch: pizza
Dinner: Turkey Reubens, onion rings

Friday -- Feast of St. Bernardine of Siena
Lunch: grilled cheese and soup
Dinner: Pasta al Forno con Pomodori e mozzarella

* Tried and true

* new to me

Week 18

2011-05-06T12:07:00.000-07:00

Saturday
Lunch: Skyline chili
Dinner: Aisan Chicken Pizza

Sunday
Lunch: Cold Chicken Pasta Salad, Paper Cup Freezer Salad
Dinner: Jamie's Wicked Kebobs, Roasted Garlic Potatoes, Chocolate Cheesecake

Monday
Lunch: leftovers
Dinner: Scrambled eggs, bacon, potatoes crowns

Tuesday -- St. Damien of Molokai
Lunch: bread, cheese, fruit
Dinner: Kalua Pig and Cabbage, white rice, Lime in the Coconut Chess Pie

Wednesday
Lunch: chili and potatoes -- last gym day
Dinner: Italian Sausage sandwiches, salad

Thursday
Lunch: veggies, meat cubes, crackers
Dinner: Pork Chops with Country Gravy, mashed potatoes, buttered corn

Friday
Lunch: tomato soup and grilled cheese
Dinner: Mongolian Beef, broccoli, rice

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 17

2011-04-29T13:50:00.000-07:00

Saturday
Lunch: hot dogs on the grill
Dinner: Sausage and pepper pizza, Italian Chopped salad

Sunday -- Divine Mercy Sunday and the Beatification of Pope John Paul II
Lunch: Loosemeat sandwiches, chips and pickles
Dinner: Pork Scaloppine, mashed potatoes, green beans, Kremówka Papieska

Monday
Lunch: leftovers
Dinner: Nigella's Meatloaf with eggs, buttered noodles, buttered corn

Tuesday
Lunch: grilled cheese and tomato soup
Dinner: Tacos and Mexican rice

Wednesday
Lunch: Chili and potatoes
Dinner: Tortilla Soup, orange wedges

Thursday
Lunch: pancakes
Dinner: BBQ Meatballs, Fried Potatoes, Peas and carrots

Friday
Lunch: Birds Nests
Dinner: Chicken Ragu, linguine, salad

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 16

2011-04-23T06:07:00.000-07:00

Saturday
Lunch: bagel sandwiches
Dinner: California Chicken Burgers, Steak fries

Easter Sunday
menu here

Monday
Dinner: Chili Dogs, Dill Pickle Potato Salad

Tuesday
Dinner: Tostada Pizza, fruit salad

Thursday
Dinner: Ham and Egg Casserole, fresh fruit, muffins

Friday
Dinner: Tex Mex Beef Enchiladas, yellow rice, guacamole and salsa

15 Weeks

2011-04-16T06:06:00.000-07:00

Saturday -- Happy Birthday Holy Papa!
Lunch: Skyline chilitos
Dinner: German Bratwurst, Warmer Kartoffelsalat, Fried Cabbage, Cream Puffs

Sunday
Lunch: Nachos with Spicy Sausage Queso, fresh tomatoes and avocado
Dinner: Maple and Soy Glazed Steak, Baked Sweet Potatoes, Salad, bread

Monday
Lunch: hamburgers, fresh veggies
Dinner: Sausage and Sauce, pasta, steamed green beans, bread

Tuesday
Lunch: Nachos with leftover spicy queso, fresh tomato and avocado
Dinner: Corned Beef in the Crockpot, mashed potatoes, dinner rolls

Wednesday
Lunch: chili and potatoes
Dinner: Chicken with Tomatoes and Olives

Thursday
Lunch: Scrambled Egg Burritos
Dinner: Corned Beef Hash, scrambled eggs, rye toast

Friday
Lunch: fruit, cheese, bread
Dinner: Black Bean Soup, bread

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 14

2011-04-08T08:33:00.000-07:00

Saturday
Lunch:
Dinner: Best Beef Enchiladas, yellow rice, avocado and tomatoes, Salsa and chips

Sunday
Lunch: Cheesy Grits and Sausage Casserole, fruit salad
Dinner: Pork Kebabs, Tzatziki sauce, pitas, peppers, Greek Salad

Monday
Lunch: nachos
Dinner: Chili con Carne over baked potatoes

Tuesday
Lunch: scrambled egg burritos with salsa
Dinner: Spanish Chicken with Chorizo and Potatoes

Wednesday
Lunch: chili and potatoes
Dinner: Philly Chicken Sandwiches, potato crowns, Blueberry Smoothies

Thursday
Lunch: corndogs, carrot sticks
Dinner: BLT Benedicts with Tomato avocado relish, easy apple dumplings

Friday
Lunch: fish sammies
Dinner: Clam Chowder , corn cakes

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 13

2011-04-01T06:09:00.000-07:00

Saturday
Lunch: subs
Dinner: Saturday night pizza

Sunday
Lunch:
Dinner: Pork Roast with Carolina Gravy, mashed potatoes, pan roasted carrots, dinner rolls

Monday
Lunch: leftover pizza
Dinner: Reubens, Onion rings, vegetables and dip

Tuesday
Lunch: Chicken snack wraps
Dinner: Spaghetti, Sauce and Sausages, salad, bread

Wednesday
Lunch: Chili and potatoes
Dinner: Cabbage rolls, mashed potatoes, rye bread

Thursday
Lunch: bird nests
Dinner: Honey Garlic Chicken and rice

Friday
Lunch: tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches
Dinner: Fish fry

* Tried and true

* new to me

Week 12

2011-03-25T17:40:00.000-07:00

Saturday
Lunch: Skyline Chili
Dinner: Cajun Burgers, Roasted Sweet Potatoes with scallions, pickles

Sunday
Lunch: Jalapeno Cheddar Breakfast Bake, fruit
Dinner: Shrimp, Peppers and Grits, Artisan Bread, Avocado Caesar Salad

Monday
Lunch: grilled cheese and tomato soup
Dinner:scrambled eggs, Nigella's Breakfast Bruschetta, fresh fruit

Tuesday
Lunch: coney dogs
Dinner: Melt in Your Mouth Braised and Barbecued Chicken, rice, Broccoli Arrabiata

Wednesday
Lunch: chili and baked potatoes
Dinner: Potsticker Soup, egg rolls

Thursday
Lunch: chicken finger snack wraps
Dinner: Nigella's Sesame Peanut Noodles (made with Sunbutter), Sesame Chicken Skewers

Friday
Lunch: bread, cheese, fruit
Dinner: Tuna Bean Salad on a bed of Romaine, Artisan Bread

* Tried and true

* new to me

Week 11

2011-03-18T13:40:00.000-07:00

Saturday -- St. Joseph's Feast Day
Lunch: Grilled MTB Sandwiches
Dinner: Pizza, St. Joseph's Cupcakes

Sunday
Dinner: Sunday Night Nachos

Monday
Lunch: leftover pizza
Dinner: Mustard Pork Chops, Quick Gnocchi, steamed sugar snap peas

Tuesday
Lunch: pancakes
Dinner: Sour Cream Noodle Bake, steamed green beans,

Wednesday
Dinner: Queso Blanco and chips, Chicken Gyro Pizza, Greek Salad, Key Lime Pie
we're entertaining my Goddaughter and her boyfriend -- she'll be in town on business

Thursday
Lunch: Walking Tacos
Dinner: Smoked Turkey Chimichangas, Yellow rice

Friday -- Feast of the Annunciation
Lunch: soup and bread
Dinner: Rosemary Chicken Breasts, Brown Butter and Balsamic Ravioli, steamed asparagus, bread, Angel Food Cake with strawberries and cream

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 10

2011-03-11T13:14:00.000-08:00

Saturday
Lunch: Skyline Chili

Sunday
Lunch: Scrambled eggs with Avocado and fresh salsa, Crumb Cake
Dinner: Beef and Bok Choy Hot Pot, Baked Egg rolls

Monday
Lunch: soup
Dinner: Soft Chicken Tacos, Fried Potatoes, fresh fruit

Tuesday
Lunch: pancakes
Dinner: Crispy Baked Teriyaki Chicken, white rice, stir-fried broccoli

Wednesday
Dinner: Swiss Miss Patty Melt (like Frisch's), baked onion rings, fresh fruit

Thursday -- Feast of St. Patrick
Lunch: pizza
Dinner: Shepherd Pie, Soda Bread, Irish Flag Cookies

Friday
Lunch: fish sandwiches
Dinner: Salmon Patties, President Reagan's macaroni and cheese, steamed peas

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 9

2011-03-04T07:17:00.000-08:00

Saturday
Lunch: Grilled brats, macaroni and cheese
Dinner: Best Beef Enchiladas, rice and refritos

Sunday
Lunch: South of the Border sandwiches, chips
Dinner: Chicken with Paprika Sauce, egg noodles, steamed green beans

Monday
Lunch: cheese quesadillas and salsa
Dinner: Hamburgers, Sugar and Spice Sweet Potatoes, salad

Tuesday
Lunch: corndogs
Dinner: Ham and Gruyere Stuffed Potatoes, steamed carrots, garlic bread

Wednesday -- Ash Wednesday
Lunch: fruit, cheese, bread
Dinner: Black beans and rice

Thursday
Lunch: pancakes
Dinner: Braised Bratwurst, Fried Cabbage, mashed potatoes

Friday
Lunch: grilled cheese and tomato soup
Dinner: Overnight French Toast, scrambled eggs

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 8

2011-02-25T07:26:00.000-08:00

We have two special events this week. My second son Joshua is turning 19 on Saturday and we are having a few of his friends and his grandma over for dinner. He chose to have Chipotle Beef Stew in Squash Boats, which is not an easy dish for a crowd, but it's what he wants. Also, on Tuesday, is the feast of St. David. I am trying to branch out and celebrate some of the saints we do not know, and because of my husband's Welsh heritage, I chose St. David. Of course, the Welsh are not know for their exquisite cuisine, so we'll see how dinner turns out. ;-)

Saturday -- Birthday boy's pick
Lunch: Skyline chili
Dinner: Chipotle Beef Stew in Squash Boats, rice, bread, surprise dessert to be provided by girlfriend (!)

Sunday
Dinner: Saturday night pizza (on Sunday) -- red pepper and sausage, and pepperoni

Monday
Lunch: leftover pizza
Dinner: Santa Fe Soup, bread

Tuesday -- Feast of St. David of Wales
Lunch: poached eggs and toast
Dinner: Welsh Beef Stew, Welsh Cheese Dumplings, English Trifle

Wednesday:
Dinner: Tortilla and Black Bean Pie

Thursday
Lunch: leftovers
Dinner: Chicken Cacciatore, fettucine, bread, salad

Friday
Lunch: grilled cheese and tomato soup
Dinner: Salmon Nicoise Salad, bread

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 7

2011-02-18T07:58:00.000-08:00

Saturday
Lunch: Skyline chili
Dinner: Rouladen, Scalloped Potatoes, German style fresh asparagus, Crescent rolls, Gingersnap Cheesecake with Cherries

Sunday
Lunch: Italian Club Sandwiches, chips and pickles
Dinner: Sausage and Roasted Red Pepper pizza (pep pizza for picky people), salad

Monday
Lunch: leftover pizza
Dinner: Grilled Spicy Chicken Legs with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce, roasted potatoes and carrots

Tuesday
Lunch: cheese quesadillas
Dinner: Cream of Potato Soup, bread

Wednesday
Lunch: chili and baked potatoes
Dinner: Maple and Soy-Glazed Flank Steak, Broccoli Arrabiata, Mushroom Barley

Thursday
Lunch: pancakes and bacon
Dinner: Grilled Turkey, Cheese and Chili Mayo Sammies, oven fries, crudites

Friday
Lunch: soup and sandwiches
Dinner: Spaghetti and Meatballs, Italian salad, bread

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 6

2011-02-11T08:25:00.000-08:00

After I posted this originally I realized I had not taken into account our birthday girl's dinner request. Whoops!

Saturday
Lunch: Skyline Chili
Dinner: pizza

Sunday
Dinner: Crab Quiche, Quiche Lorraine, fresh fruit

Monday -- St. Valentine's Day
Dinner: Grilled Ribeye steaks, Twice Baked Potatoes, House Salad, Flourless Chocolate Cake

Tuesday
Lunch: quesadillas
Dinner: Chicken and Pineapple Quesadillas, chips and guacamole

Wednesday
Lunch: chili and baked potatoes
Dinner: Potsticker soup, egg rolls

Thursday -- Birthday Girl's pick
Lunch: soup and sandwiches
Dinner: Chicken wings, Smiley Fries, crudites and fresh fruit, Princess cake and ice cream

Friday
Lunch: pizza

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 5

2011-02-04T17:33:00.000-08:00

Saturday
Lunch: Skyline Chili
Dinner: Saturday Night Pizza

Sunday
Lunch: Black Bean Soup with Fresh Salsa, chips

Monday
Lunch: leftover pizza
Dinner: Margaret's Extraordinary Soup, Artisan Bread

Tuesday
Lunch: bagels and cream cheese
Dinner: Pork Chops with Country Gravy, mashed potatoes, Pepper Corn

Wednesday
Lunch: chili and baked potatoes
Dinner: BBQ Meatballs, buttered noodles, steamed green beans

Thursday
Lunch: soup and sandwiches
Dinner: Spaghetti and Sauce, Bread, Chopped Italian Salad

Friday-- Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes
Lunch: spaghetti
Dinner: Chicken and Pineapple Quesadillas, chips and guacamole, Cream Puffs

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 5

2011-01-28T06:55:00.000-08:00

Our priests are coming for dinner Saturday. I make myself a nervous wreck for these kinds of events. My husband suggested we have a repeat of our New Year's Eve dinner which was very well received. I think I'll serve the Asian Pear salad I created instead of Italian salad, and keep the beef and potatoes the same. I never did post those recipes -- sorry about that. A chocolate cake with whipped cream frosting should be a great ending.

Saturday
Dinner: grilled Beef Tenderloin, Horseradish cream, Au Gratin Potatoes, Asian Pear Green Salad, Green Beans and Shallots, Poppy Seed Rolls , Deep Dark Chocolate Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Sunday
Lunch: Jalapeno Cheddar Breakfast Bake, Fruit and Yogurt
Dinner: Chicken Breasts Provencale, Mashed Potatoes, Balsamic Baby Carrots

Monday
Lunch: Pizza
Dinner: Split Pea Soup, homemade bread

Tuesday -- Feast of St. Brigid of Ireland
Lunch: soup and sandwiches
Dinner: Irish Rarebit, winter fruit, Bailey's Brownies

Wednesday -- Feast of Candlemas
Dinner: White Meal for the Purity of Mary: Lemon Roasted Chicken and Roasted Cauliflower, Buttered Boiled Potatoes, Candlemas Crepes

Thursday
Lunch: eggs and toast
Dinner: Burgers, waffles fries, carrot sticks

Friday
Lunch: Coney dogs, carrot sticks
Dinner: Turkey Reubens, Baked Onion Rings, fruit

* Tried and true

* New to me

Week 4

2011-01-21T19:35:00.000-08:00

Saturday
Lunch: Grocery store fried chicken, green salad
Dinner: BBQ Beef sandwiches, Macaroni and Cheese, Plantation Beans and Cabbage, Samoa Bars

Sunday
Lunch: Turkey Artichoke Panini, fresh fruit
Dinner: Chicken Cordon Bleu, buttered noodles, steamed green beans

Monday
Lunch: cold chicken, fruit and cheese
Dinner: Chicken Tortilla Casserole, black beans, Cabbage salad

Tuesday
Lunch: leftover BBQ beef
Dinner: Sloppy Joes, Baked Potatoes, buttered corn

Wednesday
Lunch: Chili and baked potatoes
Dinner: Sausage Gravy and Biscuits, Eggs

Thursday
Lunch: Sandwiches and soup
Dinner: Beef Stew, Spoon Bread

Friday
Lunch: eggs and toast
Dinner: Steak Fingers with jalapeno Gravy, mashed potatoes, buttered carrots

* Tried and true

* new to me

Week 3

2011-01-14T13:18:00.000-08:00

We had a good food week here, I'm pleased to report. All new recipes were enjoyed immensely (see The Best Beef Enchiladas here). I have a few more to post, and will get to that, um, soon. I am going back to some standbys this week, can't be trying too many new recipes -- it's very time-consuming, you know.

Saturday
Lunch: Turkey Reubens, chips
Dinner: Fish and chips, cabbage slaw

Sunday
Lunch: Southwestern Egg Casserole, fresh fruit
Dinner: Turkey Cutlets and Avocado Salsa, Polenta, Sweet Potato Pie

Monday
Lunch: sliced cold chicken, cheese, fruit
Dinner: Shipwreck Casserole (this one didn't get made last week), fresh winter fruit

Tuesday
Lunch: Cowboy Caviar and corn chips
Dinner: Heart Healthy Chicken Stew, Rye Bread

Wednesday
Lunch: baked potatoes with bacon and cheese
Dinner: Porcupine Meatballs, mashed potatoes, buttered corn, Swope Bread

Thursday
Lunch: grilled cheese and soup
Dinner: Beans and Wieners, cornbread

Friday
Lunch: poached eggs and toast
Dinner: Chicken Tortilla Casserole, black beans, fruit

* Tried and true
* New to me

Week 2

2011-01-07T18:02:00.000-08:00

.
After really thinking over the wheat/gluten issues (you can catch the gist in the posts here and here), I am going to really make a concerted effort to watch our wheat intake. I'm going to cut back on bread with meals (which my family, unfortunately loves) and try some new recipes to break some habits we have (like certain foods need to have bread, or pasta served with them).

Saturday
Lunch: Roasted Veggie Sandwiches, veggie chips
Dinner: Beef Enchiladas, Yellow Rice, orange slices

Sunday
Lunch: Asparagus and Poached eggs, rye toast (oh, what will the children eat?)
Dinner: New England Boiled Dinner, Poppy Seed Rolls

Monday
Lunch: Veggie Pizza
Dinner: Seven Layer Taco Dip and Tortilla Soup

Tuesday
Lunch: sliced cold chicken, cheese, fruit
Dinner: Pierogies with Bacon and Tomatoes, Steamed Cauliflower

Wednesday
Lunch: chili and baked potatoes
Dinner: Chicken Thighs with Tomatoes and Olives, Mashed Potatoes, Pea Pods filled with cream cheese

Thursday
Lunch: Cowboy Caviar and corn chips
Dinner: Chili Dog Casserole (I know this sounds awful, but at the request of my youngest son...I will try to create one), Fruit and dip

Friday
Lunch: Baked beans and little smokeys
Dinner: Shipwreck Casserole (trying some new things here, folks), fresh winter fruit

* Tried and true

* New to me

.

Week 1

2011-01-02T15:10:00.000-08:00

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Aaaaahh, January 1: time for a fresh start and some healthy goals. It helps that we actually crave good food after all the fattening treats and desserts we indulged in over Christmas. I have planned to use up some leftovers (a pan of au gratin potatoes, taco chicken, wieners, ham bone, an abundance of eggs) because I'm really trying not to waste, and, thus, they are incorporated into our meal plan this week.

Monday
Lunch: leftover pizza
Dinner: Au Gratin potatoes, fried ham steak, steamed broccoli

Tuesday
Lunch: cheese and crackers, fruit
Dinner: Chicken Nachos with lettuce and tomatoes, oranges

Wednesday
Lunch: scrambled egg quesadillas
Dinner: Bean Soup, Cornbread

Thursday
Lunch: baked potatoes with bacon and cheese
Dinner: Beans and Wieners, Hearth Bread

Friday
Lunch: grilled cheese and tomato soup
Dinner: Bacon Eggs, Fried Potatoes, Eggnog Muffins

* Tried and true

* New to me

.

New Year's Eve

2010-12-27T13:36:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve usually finds most of my extended family at my house, and this year will be no exception. A variety of aunts and uncles, brothers and sisters-in-law, cousins, nephews and nieces, parents from both sides, all of my children, and probably a few friends will gather to ring in the New Year. Usually we have a huge spread of appetizers and desserts, but by about 10 p.m. we're all yawning and staring at each other over a spread of leftover snacks. This year I have decided instead of offer a meal, followed by some choice munchies to go with the adult (and kiddie) beverages.

A beef tenderloin is an expensive piece of meat, but one of my husband's favorites. It can be stretched for quite a few people if you serve it with soft buns, with horseradish cream on the side, for sandwiches. I think I'll serve some au gratin potatoes and a huge green salad. If you're in the neighborhood, stop by for a bite!

Antipasto Platter
Beef Tenderloin prepared on the grill

Poppy Seed Rolls

Horseradish cream

Au Gratin Potatoes

Greek Salad

Assorted Christmas Cookies and Candies

Rosemary Mixed Nuts

Crunchy Paprika Chickpeas

Assorted Beer

Assorted Soda

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Menus

2010-12-17T17:43:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve

Lasagna, beef and vegetarian

Italian Sausages and sauce

Italian Salad

Italian bread

Platters of Christmas Cookies

Coffee and Nutty Irishmen

Christmas Day

Bacon Wrapped Pork Roast

Chorizo Sausage Stuffing

Mashed Potatoes

Green Beans with Red Peppers and Shallots

Poppy Seed Rolls

Buche de Noel

Weekly Menu -- Christmas Week

2010-12-17T17:02:00.000-08:00

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It's hard to believe it is Christmas week. In my head I am still back in July, I think. I have hardly a cookie baked, nothing wrapped and still a few things to purchase. I'm going to try and take it easy this week with meals, but my oldest is home and I hate to feed him canned soup and sandwiches when he hardly ever comes home any more. Maybe we'll have one take out night and make easier meals the others. The Christmas menu is to come.

Saturday
Lunch:Skyline chili
Dinner: Stromboli, sauce, Chopped Italian Salad

Sunday
Lunch: Walking Tacos
Dinner: Chipotle Beef Stew in squash boats, bread, salad

Monday
Dinner:Jalapeno Cheddar Breakfast Bake, fruit, potato rounds

Tuesday
Dinner: Chili, cornbread

Thursday
Dinner: Soft Spicy Chicken Tacos, Yellow Rice

* Tried and true

.

Weekly Menu

2010-12-10T08:16:00.000-08:00

Saturday
Lunch: Skyline coneys
Dinner: BBQ Chicken Pizza, Apple Pie (my husband admitted he was sad that I did not make this for Thanksgiving)

Sunday -- Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Lunch: sub sandwiches
Dinner: Topopo Salad (This salad has jokingly become "The Pope's Salad" in my house because everyone botches the pronunciation. We will eat it for Our Lady of Mexico on her feast day, probably using a grocery store rotisserie chicken to make it easy.) Mexican Chocolate Cake

Tuesday
Lunch: bagels and cream cheese
Dinner: Bavarian Pot Roast, potatoes, carrots, bread

Wednesday
Lunch: chili and potatoes
Dinner: Chicken Noodle Soup and grilled cheese sandwiches

Thursday
Lunch: pancakes
Dinner: Scrambled eggs with ham, Fried Potatoes, Soda Bread

Friday
Lunch:Tomato soup and crackers
Dinner: Shrimp, Peppers and Grits, bread, salad

* Tried and true
* New to me

Weekly Menu -- December

2010-12-04T06:52:00.000-08:00

This past week we lived off the fat of the land so to speak. We ate leftovers until we couldn't stand the sight of them any more, and then we ate what I could throw together with available ingredients. I think next week my family might appreciate a meal -- whatever I feed them.

Saturday
Lunch: Skyline Chili
Dinner: Burgers on the Grill, Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Wedge Salad, Barbarakuchen

Monday -- Feast of St. Nicholas
Lunch: scrambled eggs and toast
Dinner: Chicken Tamale Casserole, grapes and orange slices, Speculatius Cookies

Tuesday
Lunch: BLTs
Dinner: Macaroni and Cheese, pan roasted winter vegetables

Wednesday -- Feast of the Immaculate Conception
Lunch: chili and baked potatoes
Dinner: Chicken Enchilada Chowder, tortilla chips

Thursday -- Feast of Juan Diego
Lunch: grilled cheese and tomato soup
Dinner: Spanish Pan Roast, yellow rice, Flan

Friday
Lunch: bagels and cream cheese
Dinner: Meatloaf and Mushroom Gravy, mashed potatoes, buttered corn

Thanksgiving Week

2010-11-19T15:09:00.000-08:00

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This is the biggest food week of the year, in my estimation, but I am guessing that most of the food prep being done is almost exclusively related to Thursday's big meal. I know I've heard that the Wednesday night before Thanksgiving is the biggest pizza night of the year. I won't be ordering pizza, but I will certainly be taking it easy in the meal department.

Doug's birthday is Saturday (big 5-0!) so we're splurging.

Saturday -- Happy Birthday Sweetheart!
Lunch: Skyline Chili Nachos
Dinner: Marinated Rib Eye Steaks, Twice Baked Potatoes, House Salad, bread, Chocolate Lover's Cake

Sunday
Lunch: Bacon, Tomato and Grilled Cheese sammies, veggie chips, fruit
Dinner: Ham, Scalloped Potatoes, Broccoli Arrabiata

Monday
Lunch: French toast and bacon

Tuesday
Lunch: Birds Nests
Dinner: Pizza Rolls, salad

Wednesday
Lunch: Chili and Baked potatoes
Dinner: Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

Thursday -- Happy Thanksgiving
Menu found here

* Tried and true
* New to me

.

Weekly Menu

2010-11-11T17:08:00.000-08:00

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I am trying to wind down a bit this week before Thanksgiving and keep things simple. If we were made of money I'd probably order out all week. Alas, we are not so I'll cook, but barely.

Saturday
Lunch: Skyline Chili
Dinner: Reubens, Dill Pickle Potato Salad

Sunday
Lunch: Six Thumbs Up Brunch
Dinner: PW Chicken Spaghetti (I have not yet tried this dish, though it seems the rest of the Western world has!), steamed green vegetable, Tomato Cucumber salad

Monday
Lunch: Waffles and fruit
Dinner: Sausage Gravy and biscuits, scrambled eggs

Tuesday
Lunch: eggs and toast
Dinner: Braised Chicken Thighs with Carrots and Potatoes, canned fruit

Wednesday
Lunch: chili and baked potatoes
Dinner: Tortellini Soup, bread

Thursday
Lunch: Burgers and tater tots
Dinner: Black bean, Chicken and Cheese Bake, cabbage salad, fruit

Friday
Lunch: Tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches
Dinner: Spaghetti and Sauce, salad, bread

* Tried and true
* New to me

Weekly Menu -- some reruns

2010-11-05T10:31:00.000-07:00

..
We had one of those weeks this week that didn't go as planned. Some meals got shuffled, some got replaced. Those that we didn't eat are back on for this week.

Saturday
Dinner: Saturday night pizza

Sunday
Lunch: Jalapeno Cheddar Bagel Bake (the crowds demand it!), fruit salad
Dinner: Rigatoni di Gregorio, bread, steamed green beans

Monday
Lunch: fried eggs sandwiches, orange wedges
Dinner: Baked Macaroni and Cheese, Pan Roasted Brussel Sprouts, homemade apple sauce

Tuesday
Lunch: soup and crackers
Dinner: Orange Chicken and white rice, steamed broccoli

Wednesday
Lunch: chili and baked potatoes
Dinner: Wedding Soup, bread

Thursday
Lunch: burgers and veggie chips
Dinner: Salisbury Steaks, mashed potatoes, buttered corn

Friday
Lunch: bagels and cream cheese
Dinner: Chicken and Black Bean Enchilada Casserole, fruit salad

* Tried and true
* New to me

.

Weekly Menu -- First of November

2010-10-29T13:44:00.000-07:00

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And so time goes and on, and October turns into November. We're turning on lamps in late afternoon, and starting our night a little earlier. I can't say it bothers me at all. I enjoy being home and having my family all indoors around me.

This weekend we celebrate All Hallows Eve, and since our city and neighboring towns already "enjoyed" Trick-or-Treat that leaves the holiday open for whatever we want. I am going to make my favorite "Soul Cakes" on Sunday evening after dinner, and I know my family will be excited. On Monday, All Saints day, we will celebrate without any special food, by attending Mass and I, personally, will enjoy just thinking about all of those beautiful souls -- the Church Triumphant -- who have achieved the Glory of Heaven.

This week is the start of a class I am taking at church every Wednesday until the first week in December. I am very excited as it is a preparation for Consecration to Jesus through Mary, using St. Louis de Montfort's Way of Total Consecration. Our associate pastor is teaching the class and it's the first time I have participated in a parish-sponsored program like this. I am excited. My family travels an hour round trip to our church, however, so it's a bit of a time commitment for me. We'll be having soup or sandwiches for dinner on Wednesdays for a while.

On Monday, I am taking dinner to a couple in our parish with new twins at home. I volunteer for a parish ministry that provides meals to parishioners who are ill, or otherwise in need of help, and this young family is on our list to provide meals. I'm taking Shepherd's Pie and that's what my family will eat as well. It's a great recipe from my dear Irish friend Deborah -- it's one of my favorites. I'll break my rule of no dessert during the week to take dessert to this family.

Saturday
Lunch:
Dinner: Tailgate Party Fare (Go Bucks!): Jalapeno Popper Dip, Pita Pita Pumpkin Eater Pizza, Pretzels and Dip, Cowboy Caviar and Chips, Halloween Candy Bake

Sunday
Lunch: Ham and Cheese Breakfast bake, fruit
Dinner: Grilled Burgers, Sugar and Spice Sweet Potatoes, salad, Soul Cakes

Monday
Lunch: soup and crackers
Dinner: Shepherd Pie, Hearth Bread, Cranberry Waldorf Salad, Carrot Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Tuesday
Lunch: grilled cheese and soup
Dinner: Beans and Wieners, Cornbread, apple slices

Wednesday
Lunch: Chili and baked potatoes
Dinner: Chicken Phillie Cheesesteak sandwiches, oven fries or tater tots, canned fruit

Thursday
Lunch: macaroni and cheese
Dinner: Orange Chicken and white rice, steamed broccoli

Friday
Lunch: bagels and cream cheese
Dinner: Baked Macaroni and Cheese, Pan Roasted Brussel Sprouts, homemade apple sauce

* Tried and true
* New to me

.

Weekly Menu

2010-10-22T08:44:00.000-07:00

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The dishwasher is broken, as you may know if you have heard me (read me) whine about it on my other blog, and that means simplified dishes based on pots and pans used. I'm not cut out for washing dishes for an hour after cooking a meal. My help around here is L.I.M.I.T.E.D., sadly. Doug only does them if I am ready to fall over, or I have to leave the house. The kids? Well, I have trained them very poorly.

Our Trick-or-Treat is Thursday, though I have no idea why (no one explains these things to lowly me), and we traditionally eat Chili before heading out to beg for candy. The rest of the week is pretty simple.

I don't know when, but some time this weekend I am going to try this Beet Hummus -- it's been on my list of recipes to try forever, but I'll probably have to eat it alone. Oh well!

Also want to try these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, which I just saw the other day -- probably breakfast on Sunday. Yum! If either recipe is blog-worthy, you'll find the recipe here next week.

Saturday
Lunch: Skyline chili
Dinner: Spicy Italian Sausage sandwiches, peppers and onions on Homemade Buns, baked potatoes

Sunday
Dinner: New England Boiled Dinner, Poppy Seed Dinner Rolls

Monday
Lunch: Ham and Swiss Cheese Sandwiches
Dinner: Dinner: Broccoli Cheese Soup (maybe bread bowls, maybe not)

Tuesday -- 21st Birthday Boy dinner
Lunch: corndogs and veggie sticks
Dinner: Stromboli, salad, Pumpkin Pie

Wednesday
Lunch: chili and baked potatoes
Dinner: Tostada Pizza, fruit and yogurt

Thursday
Lunch: muffin tin lunchables
Dinner: Chili (my mom's) with spaghetti, shredded cheddar and chopped onions, Fritos and oyster crackers

* Tried and true
* New to me
.

Weekly Menu -- mid October

2010-10-15T06:03:00.000-07:00

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Saturday
Lunch: Skyline Chili
Dinner: Grilled Burgers, Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Scallions

Sunday
Brunch: Egg and Sausage Casserole, fresh berries
Dinner: Roast Chicken Provencale, baked winter squash, mashed potatoes

Monday -- Feast of St. Luke, patron of butchers
Lunch: Cheese Quesadillas
Dinner: Cheese Ravioli, Sauce and Sausage, Salad

Tuesday -- Feast of St. Isaac Jogues and the North American Martyrs
Lunch: soup and crackers
Dinner: Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas, Sour Cream Rice, Caramel Puff Corn (This treat is for the feast of St. Issac Jogues, who is known most for his work with the native Americans. I would have made regular caramel popcorn -- corn & Indians -- but we have several kids in orthodontics. This is "safe" popcorn.)

Wednesday
Lunch: Chili and baked potatoes
Dinner: Spaghetti with Artichokes and Tomatoes, Bubbly Garlic Bread, salad

Thursday
Lunch: Lunchtime Pizza
Dinner: Porcupine Meatballs, mashed potatoes, steamed cabbage

Friday
Lunch: scrambled egg sandwiches
Dinner: Broccoli Cheese Soup (maybe bread bowls, maybe not)

* Tried and true
* New to me

.

Weekly Menu

2010-10-07T19:45:00.000-07:00

A visit to the cardiologist this week has me really thinking about my menus. My meals are o.k. -- my cholesterol is alright (thanks to statins).

My doctor highly recommends I get 20 minutes of sustained exercise a day. Yeah, he's not buying that "active lifestyle" stuff and my "running up and down the stairs 20 times a day" excuse. He says 20 minutes sustained. I know this sounds really lame, but unless I walk at 6 a.m. or 9 p.m., I just can not imagine when I will just stop what I'm doing and hop on the treadmill for 20 minutes every day. I know, lame. But, I go from schooling, to dinner prep, to clean up, to after dinner chores or ironing. And I'm not walking at 6 a.m. or 9 .p.m. I guess I could give up blogging...

I have decided I'm going to have to carve dessert out of my list of things to do. My family is likely to gripe a lot, but not having dessert will ultimately be more healthy, especially since I'll walk on the treadmill instead of baking. That means, unless it's a really special day, or the weekend, no dessert on the menu. Let's see how long it lasts. ;-)

Saturday
Lunch: Skyline chili
Dinner: Teriyaki Burgers, Sugar and Spice Sweet Potatoes, Margaret's Crunchy Caramel Apple Pie (it's the weekend!)

Sunday
Lunch: Chili
Dinner:Chicken Parmesan, pasta, salad

Monday
Lunch: Tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches
Dinner: Red Beans and Rice, bread, fruit

Tuesday
Lunch: Hummus and pita chips, veggies
Dinner: Chicken Pot Pie, tossed salad

Wednesday
Lunch: Chili and baked potatoes
Dinner: Irish Beef and Guiness Stew, Soda Bread

Thursday
Lunch: Soup and crackers
Dinner: Sloppy Joes, Onion rings, Root Beer floats (no veggie night!)

Friday -- Feast of St. Teresa of Avila
Lunch: Fried egg sandwiches, veggie chips
Dinner: Spanish Pan Roast, yellow rice, salad, Flan

* Tried and true
* New to me

Weekly Menu -- Oktoberfest

2010-10-01T17:43:00.000-07:00

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This weekend we celebrate Oktoberfest at our house. I love Oktoberfest if for no other reason than it is the beginning of my favorite season. We'll enjoy traditional German dishes, some which I have links to.

Faith is getting braces on her teeth on Tuesday, so if you notice a lot of soup on our menu, it's for a good reason!

Saturday
Dinner: Saturday night pizza, I think a pepperoni and a White Pizza

Sunday - Oktoberfest
Dinner: German Style Bratwurst, German potato salad, homemade applesauce, sauerkraut, root beer and real beer, Cream Puffs

Monday -- Feast of St. Francis of Assisi
Lunch: Pizza Rolls
Dinner: Pulled Pork Sandwiches, cabbage slaw, fried potatoes, Poor Man's Cake

Tuesday -- Feast of St. Faustina
Lunch: soup and crackers
Dinner: Pierogies with Bacon, rye bread, applesauce, Polish Sugar Cookies

Wednesday
Lunch: chili and potatoes
Dinner: Ham and Cheese Sliders, cabbage slaw, veggie chips

Thursday
Lunch: chicken noodle soup
Dinner: Crunchy Chicken Casserole, Southern Style Green Beans, biscuits

Friday
Lunch: grilled cheese and tomato soup
Dinner: Red Beans and Rice, bread, fruit

* Tried and true
* New to me

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Weekly Menu -- end of September

2010-09-24T08:16:00.000-07:00

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The end of September is here, and I don't even know where it went. Consumed with getting back into our school-year schedule, lots of "to-dos," and hot weather, it seems we just flew threw the month. I'm hoping it finally cools down (still 90 degrees in Ohio today) as we get into October, and we will feel a little bit of autumn, now that it is autumn. I'm going to try to get to the apple orchard this week, and then we can enjoy some home-baked apple dishes. I'll try to post a list of my favorite apple recipes at Bless Us O Lord.

You may notice that Scalloped Potatoes and Ham have been on my menu two, or maybe three, weeks in a row. Unfortunately, I have never actually made the dish on any of the days it was scheduled, because you have to actually be home to make this dish and we have not been home much in the afternoons. I will make this dish this week!

Our weekend is action-packed and I don't think I'll be cooking.

Monday
Lunch: Muffin Tin Lunchables
Dinner: Grilled Blackened Chicken and Pepper Corn, mashed potatoes

Tuesday
Lunch: vegetable soup and crackers
Dinner: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham, green peas, Johnny Cakes

Wednesday -- Feast of the Archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael
Dinner: Chicken Tamale Casserole, fruit
Angel Food Cake

Thursday
Lunch: Pizza Rolls (freeze the leftovers for other lunches)
Dinner: Spaghetti and Sauce (make a big pot with sausage/freeze leftovers), bread, salad

Friday -- Feast of St. Therese
Little Flower Cupcakes

* Tried and true recipe
* New to me recipe
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Weekly Menu -- budget meals

2010-09-17T05:02:00.000-07:00

If I looked back at our financial records for the last five years, I think I would find that come every late winter and early fall, money gets tight. It can't possibly be for the same reasons -- we don't have any regular bills, like property taxes -- that we have to pay this time of year, but I have this feeling of deja vu during the same two times every year. Which always leads me to pull the grocery budget a little tighter. I've said before, the car payment has to be made, and the gas man wants his money no matter what, but the grocery budget can be tweaked and the menu is the place to do that. So, if it's budget meals you're looking for, you've come to the right place. Assume any cut of meat on my menu is on sale this week. If you're on a tight budget, that's the best way to keep grocery costs down -- just plan your menu around what you can find on sale.

Saturday
Dinner: Saturday Night Pizza, Deep Dish Pizza, White Balsamic Salad

Sunday
Lunch: Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich, chips
Dinner: Pork Scaloppine, Savory Polenta, Italian Green Beans

Monday
Lunch: leftover pizza
Dinner: Jamie's Chili, corn bread

Tuesday
Dinner: Chicken and Artichoke Saute, mashed potatoes, fruit

Wednesday
Lunch: Bagels and cream cheese, fruit
Dinner: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham, steamed broccoli, Johnny Cakes

Thursday -- Feast of St. Padre Pio
Lunch: Macaroni and Cheese, carrot sticks
Dinner: Cheeseburger Rolls, Warm Zucchini Salad, oven fries, Cappuccino Mouse and Milano Cookies

* Tried and true
* New to me

Weekly Menu -- I can feel autumn coming!

2010-09-09T09:10:00.000-07:00

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Ooooo we had a lovely cold front come through Ohio and I actually feel chilly sitting here at my computer. The wind is blowing through the screen door and I can hear the rustle of the leaves -- one of my favorite sounds. The cool weather means comforting cool weather dishes are right around the corner (and tailgate parties on the family room sofa are scheduled for this weekend!). I'm tired of grilling - it happens every year -- and I long for the oven to fill the house with yummy fall smells.

Saturday -- Buckeyes vs. Hurricanes (we're Buckeyes!)
Lunch: Skyline Chili
Tailgate Party Dinner: Cheese and Guinness Spread with crackers and crudites, Kansas City Hot Wings, Santa Fe Hot Dip and tortilla chips, Pizza Crescents, Apple Betty

Sunday
Lunch: Asiago Roast Beef Sammies, chips, fruit
Dinner: Beef and Onion Shish Kabobs, garlic rice, green beans

Monday
Lunch: leftovers
Dinner: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham, steamed broccoli, fruit salad

Tuesday -- Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Lunch: Cajun hot dogs, carrot sticks and dip
Dinner: Skillet Spaghetti, salad, bread, Holy Cross Brownie

Wednesday -- Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows
Dinner: Slowcooker Carnitas (it's in the freezer) black beans, rice, Our Lady of Sorrows Cake

Thursday
Lunch: Chicken wraps
Dinner: Scrambled eggs with bacon, Applesauce Coffeecake

Friday
Lunch: Homemade bagels and cream cheese
Dinner: Tuna Noodle Casserole, peas and carrots, muffins

* Tried and true
* New to me

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Weekly Menu -- Labor Day weekend

2010-09-03T18:58:00.000-07:00

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We have a busy weekend ahead with different crowds visiting on two out of three nights. I love company, but we do seem to get it in bunches! Wednesday is the Feast of the Nativity of Mary and Faith and I are going to make a Blueberry Buckle -- yum! Do something special that day, even if it's just making ice cream sundaes for dessert. And put some flowers from the garden on your Marian altar -- Our Lord will be so happy for you to remember his mother.

Saturday
Lunch: Roasted Vegetable Sandwiches, baked chips
Dinner: Pizza

Sunday
Dinner: Grilled Hot Pepper Shrimp (for an appetizer), Pulled Pork Sandwiches, Carrot and Squash Bake, House Salad, Tollhouse Pie and ice cream, Banana Cream Coconut Pie

Monday
Dinner: White Bean Dip and veggie chips (an appetizer), Brats and dogs, pot luck sides, Pound cake with Buttercream Frosting and Strawberry Gelato

Tuesday
Lunch: leftovers
Dinner: Salisbury Steak, mashed potatoes, buttered corn

Wednesday -- Birth of Mary
Lunch: corndogs
Dinner: Best Backyard Pork Tenderloin, House Salad, Grilled potatoes, Blueberry Buckle

Thursday
Lunch: Celery and sunbutter, carrots and ranch, crackers and cheese
Dinner: Bacon, Tomato and Grilled Cheese sandwiches, tater tots, fruit

Friday
Lunch: grilled cheese and tomato soup
Dinner: Tuna Noodle Casserole, peas and carrots, muffins

*Tried and true
* New to me

A Month of Menus -- September

2010-09-03T18:06:00.000-07:00

Sloppy Joes, onion rings, Root Beer floats (no veggie night!)

German Style Bratwurst, German potato salad, homemade applesauce (Oktoberfest!)

Pimento Cheese and Bacon Burgers, oven fries, salad

Slowcooker Carnitas (it's in the freezer) black beans, rice

Chicken Tamale Casserole, fruit

Grilled Blackened Chicken and Pepper Corn, bread

Ham and Cheese Sliders, cabbage slaw, veggie chips

Grilled Burgers, baked potatoes, corn

Pancakes, bacon and fruit

Irish Beef and Guiness Stew, Soda Bread

Reubens, french fries, chocolate malts (no veggie night!)

Roast Chicken Provencale, green vegetable, mashed potatoes

Chicken and Artichoke Saute, mashed potatoes, fruit

Rosemary and Garlic Marinated Beef Kabobs, grilled potatoes and mushrooms, bread

Crunchy Chicken Casserole, green vegetable, biscuits or bread

Chicken Parmesan, pasta, green vegetable or salad

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham, green vegetable, fruit

BBQ Comfort Food, mashed potatoes, buttered corn

Creole Shrimp and Sausage Stew, white rice, salad

Melt-in-your-mouth Braised and Barbecue Chicken, white rice, stir-fried vegetables

Pork Scaloppine, mashed potatoes, green vegetables

Skillet Spaghetti, salad, bread

Tuna Noodle Casserole, peas and carrots, muffins

Roasted Vegetable Lasagna, bread

Jamie's Chili, corn bread

Pulled Pork Sandwiches (making a big batch for Labor and they'll be leftovers), cabbage slaw, fried potatoes

Bacon, Tomato and Grilled Cheese sandwiches, tater tots, fruit

Red Beans and Rice, bread, fruit

Tacos, beans, fruit

Pizza -- at least a few times

* Tried and true

* New to me

Weekly Menu -- almost September

2010-08-26T17:41:00.000-07:00

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Our weather in central Ohio cooled down considerably in the last few days (and gave us cool, cool nights), and now I can really believe that autumn is almost here. Though we still have Labor Day weekend a week away, I am mentally finished with summer and anxious for the next season. This week we begin school at home, and I think that the children are as anxious as I am to turn a corner. While I know our first week will be a bumpy ride, as it always is, I will keep some yummy baked goods in the kitchen to keep the kids happy. Though my young children don't get off the school bus every day in need of milk and cookies, they still need yummy treats to make the days better. And you can bet my high school boy still appreciates a homemade treat when he gets home. Be sure to click on my Cookie Jar at Bless Us O Lord to see what's fresh in the jar.

Saturday
Lunch: Skyline chili
Dinner: Chicken Gyros, Greek Salad, Creme Brulee

Sunday
Lunch: Strawberry Coffee Cake, cheesy scrambled eggs
Dinner: Stromboli, salad, Tiramisu

Monday
Lunch: Pizza
Dinner: Char Sui Crock Pot Pork Roast, stir-fried vegetables, rice

Tuesday
Lunch: BLTs and veggie chips
Dinner: Colonel chicken (KFC) -- Parent's night at high school

Wednesday
Dinner: California Chicken Sandwich (a la Red Robin), steak fries, watermelon slices

Thursday
Lunch: Macaroni and Cheese
Dinner: Stuffed Peppers, mashed potatoes, buttered corn

Friday
Lunch: Tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches
Dinner: Scrambled Egg Tacos, Fried potatoes, salsa and avocado slices

* Tried and true
* New to me

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Weekly Menu

2010-08-20T13:17:00.000-07:00

It's Back-to-School time at our house -- the time of the year when we embrace schedules (because we really don't have a choice) and I feel called to move from the loosey-goosey meals of summer to the comforting, rib-stickin' meals of cool weather. We spend more time indoors, but the time we do spend outdoors is usually more comfortable. I love this time of year -- we're just on the cusp of autumn, and I love the anticipation.

Saturday
Lunch: Skyline Chili
Dinner: Smoky Spanish-Style Pan Roast, Pan de Horno, fresh fruit

Sunday
Lunch: Bacon and Egg Muffin Melts, fruit and yogurt
Dinner: Best Backyard Pork Tenderloin, House Salad, Grilled potatoes

Monday
Lunch: Simple Sesame Noodles
Dinner: Grilled Rosemary and Garlic Chicken, Tabouleh Salad

Tuesday
Lunch: Cane's chicken fingers -- end of summer treat
Dinner: Walking Tacos, sliced watermelon

Wednesday
Lunch: meat and cheese roll ups, veggie and dip, crackers (in the Bento for the back-to-school kid)
Dinner: Grilled Chicken Legs, Corn, Tomato and Avocado Salad, bread

Thursday
Lunch: leftover chicken legs, fruit
Dinner: Steak burgers with sauteed mushrooms, Wedge Salad, Roasted Garlic and New Potatoes

Friday
Lunch: omelets with any leftover veggies and potatoes
Dinner: First Friday night football game -- Tailgate party

* tried and true recipe
* new to me recipe