Ideas for Meal Planning and Grocery Shopping During Covid 19

Simple strategy in managing food for our families is always important, but certainly so in our current situation.  I’m going to share with you five things that I’m doing right now to plan wisely for our meal planning and shopping.

1. Each week after I pick up my on-line order at Kroger, I go ahead and immediately start another on-line order and schedule it for the next week. The time slots fill up quickly, so this way I know I can go back a week from now and get what I need.  Also, I can go back on the Kroger app and modify my order up to midnight the night before I pick it up.  So even if I just put in an order for milk, initially, I am able to add whatever else I need before my actual pick up.

   

2. I’m shopping for two-week menus at a time (that is aside from dairy products and fresh fruit. Last week my Kroger order was under $15, for milk, yogurt and a few other essentials). I have planned ahead so that we only have to make minimal trips out.  I’m blessed to have a large freezer in the garage, so I have plenty of meat stored away (which is my normal way of life!). I also have breads, frozen vegetables, and ice cream in that freezer (ice cream isn’t a necessity, but a nice treat when you can’t stop at Chick-Fil-A for a cone!).
3. I’m buying fresh fruits and vegetables that have a long shelf life.  Broccoli, apples, lemons, small colored peppers, cherry tomatoes, head lettuce, carrots, potatoes and onions have served us well!  I even pickled red onions and have wondered how I ever got along without them!! They are delicious on tacos, salads and sandwiches!

   

4.  We planted some fresh lettuces and broccoli.  I have three raised beds and have grown tomatoes and cucumbers, but never these greens.  I’m excited about trying my hand at it and am hopeful for some delicious salads as result!
   I’m wondering if there will be a rise in gardening this year.  What’s better than growing your own vegetables?! It’s so cost effective and the time outside is refreshing!
   

5.  I’m praying and not panicking.  Matthew 6 has become a much read and reviewed chapter for me.  There are so many wonderful reminders about how God provides for us and will care for our every need.  Why should I worry?  I’m resting in God’s promises. I’m planning and preparing as wisely as I know how, then I’m leaving it all in the hands of a  sovereign God.

How are you doing at getting what you need for your family?  If you have any tips to share, please leave them in the comments below!

Refresh yourself and your family with some wise planning, but most of all, trust in a God Who loves you!