
It actually makes things easier because I know exactly what we’ll be eating – no new recipes to learn, no new ingredients to buy – so I computerize my shopping list for each holiday meal.
These are simple Word documents, nothing fancy. I keep notes about what size turkey, ham or tenderloin I need depending on the number of guests, and what time to put the pies in the oven.
My Thanksgiving list, in part, looks like this:
Stuffing:
- ___ 1 bag seasoned croutons
- ___ 1 carton chicken stock
- ___ Celery
- ___ Onion
- ___ Butter
- ___ Salt
- ___ Pepper
- ___ Sage
Squash:
- ___ 2 medium-sized butternut squash
- ___ Butter
- ___ Brown sugar
- ___ Nutmeg, cinnamon
Whipped Cream:
- ___ 2 cups heaving whipping cream
- ___ Sugar
- ___ Vanilla
You get the picture, right? Before shopping, I check the pantry and refrigerator, putting an X next to items I have. Then I mark things off as I shop, since I usually buy things in a few different trips.
It might seem silly, but it saves me time AND money. How?
- I don’t forget anything, so there are no frantic, last minute trips to the store.
- I don’t buy items I already have. Spices are expensive, and who needs multiple containers of sage?
Speaking of spices, here’s a helpful chart regarding their shelf life.
I’m in favor of anything that makes life easier as we head into the busy holiday season, how about you, any time-saving tips you’d like to share?
Loved this!!!
trying again to leave a comment…see if being on the big computer changes the results.
Thanks, Nancy! glad you enjoyed it.
Good insight, Jamie. Sure works great at our house…
Thanks! This all came about when I forgot something one year and vowed to never have that happen again.