You guys have been an incredible help and thank you! As I said, I'm still in the conceptual phase of this, but it isn't that much money to start it up, so if it flops, at least it didn't break the bank. To answer some of your questions...
In regards for leftovers, I usually have a plan for them as well, but they normally turn into breakfasts and lunches... for example, the flanksteak we are having this week will get done up in wraps with some low sodium provalone cheese and packed with my lovely no salt potato chips and a piece of fruit or yogurt, the roasted potatoes from fish night will get tossed together with some egg beaters and some peppers to make southwest egg wraps, I'll use the leftover roasted chicken in some chicken salad and if there's enough make a chicken and spinach quiche on sunday morning... a lot of times I just take whatever is leftover and use it to top a salad or put it into some sort of fancy sandwhich... we also have divided tupperware plates, so we might just eat exactly what we had for dinner the next day for lunch if I can't come up with anything creative to do (Leftovers and I have a love/hate relationship)
As far as the prep time, I've usually included my grocery lists with the usual ziplock baggies and tupperware needed at the bottom so they know they will need it... because we have such a long commute time, I try to make everything I can on the weekends and get things marinated, but because I enjoy cooking so much I also like to have some things to do the day of so I can have some relaxation... even my dogs know they do not come into the kitchen when I'm cooking, it's my "me time".
Supe- I'll PM you the questions that I usually ask and make one up for you if you'll give me some feedback on it!
VT- I think you are within driving distance, come on down... or am I getting you confused with another EB'er?
Fraz- I actually started a database for each of my friends so that way I can currently make sure I don't give them too many similar meals each month. If the thing takes off, who knows where it could go, I can see myself ten years from now doing something where there is an option for the meals come partially prepared, but I would like to start with a small idea and see if it's successful...
I don't do the coupon thing, I found that when I took the time to clip them, I never had ones for what I needed, but I pay attention to the sale items at the store (this week diet dr pepper and chips were on sale so I stocked up) We do get an ad for the grocery store, so I use that as a guide when planning, but it usually only impacts things in a small way. I too purchase the store brand for many things like canned veggies, some milk products, cereal, but never for other items... sometimes that little extra cost makes a big difference... I also purchase all the paper products and toothpaste type items at the dollar general store...
you might not want to come!
