Menu Monday ~ June 18, 2018

June 18, 2018 By Deanna Piercy Leave a Comment

Taking a bit of time on the weekend to plan our menu for the week makes my life so much easier. Even if we alter our plans a bit it is still helpful to have a starting place. Let’s take a look at my menu for the week.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Read more here.

DEE’S MENU

Monday

black bean enchiladas
tortilla chips and guacamole
salad

Tuesday

Slow Cooker Creamy French Mustard Chicken (didn’t end up making this last week)
mixed green salad with homemade vinaigrette
steamed baby carrots

Wednesday

This is our 37th wedding anniversary so we are going out to dinner.

Thursday

grilled burgers
sweet potato fries
salad

Friday

My daughter and I are doing our June monthly grocery shopping this day. We will be speeding up our usual process so I can be back in time for “Cruisin’ Main”. David is planning to get his 1966 Mustang washed and ready to cruise. I think there are going to be food trucks so we’ll eat at one of those.

Saturday

slow cooker roast
carrots
mashed potatoes
salad

Sunday

leftovers

What’s cooking at YOUR house this week?

MEAL PLANNING RESOURCES I RECOMMEND

Meal Planning That Saves You Time and Money – includes links to free printables!
30 Ways to Save on Groceries

Eat At Home weekly meal plans:

- - - - Do you want to eat a healthy, organic, grass fed diet but don’t think you can afford it? My friend, Victoria of A Modern Homestead, explains how they do it on less than $200 a month. Click here to find out how:

Get Stuff Done ~ Create a Two Minute List

June 15, 2018 By Deanna Piercy 2 Comments

Do you have a bunch of little tasks nagging at you? Do you tend to procrastinate on bigger projects because you have trouble finding large blocks of time? Do you have tiny areas of clutter that don’t seem too bad individually but collectively make your home look messy? I have the solution – create a “two minute list”.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Read more here.

If you are familiar with David Allen’s Getting Things Done (GTD) method, you have likely heard of the “two minute rule” – If something will take you two minutes or less, do it now. That’s all well and good for some things:

dealing with the daily mail
responding to an email that only needs a short answer
putting your plate and fork in the dishwasher after lunch
rinsing the toothpaste out of the sink after brushing your teeth
folding the blanket you were using after your television show is over

But the truth is that, for many of us, we could spend our entire day moving from one two-minute task to another and never get to any of our larger, and perhaps more important, projects.

That’s why I like to create a “Two Minute List”.

What is a two minute list?

A “Two Minute List” is simply a list of tasks that you estimate will take two minutes or less to complete. These might be little tasks you keep putting off for one reason or another. Or they could be the very first tiny step of a much larger project. Or maybe there’s a new habit you want to create, such as making your bed every morning. Anything is fair game for the “Two Minute List” as long as it doesn’t take much more than a couple of minutes.

Examples:

respond to an email
put away the shoes that have collected by the front door
empty all the wastebaskets
wipe off the kitchen windowsill
put the reusable grocery bags back in the car
tidy your underwear drawer
pay a bill
remove a few dead leaves from a houseplant – and water it if that’s why there are dead leaves!
replace a burned out light bulb
neatly stack the magazines on the coffee table and put a few in the recycling bin if they are out of date or you’ve already read them
check the main bathroom to make sure there is toilet paper on the roll and put out fresh towels if needed
write a quick thank you note
set a timer for 2 minutes and delete junk email as fast as you can
clean out your purse
start a load of laundry
delete a couple of apps you never use from your phone
shred a stack of papers

You get the idea.

There are several ways you can use a Two Minute List:

Make a new list each day with 3-10 items and then use those tiny pockets of time throughout the day to check off each item.
If you have older children or a willing spouse, create a list of 2-5 items for them to complete.
Take time to walk through your entire home and consider anything you’ve been putting off. Make a master list of two minute tasks.
Consider breaking larger projects into tiny parts. For instance, if your closet is a disaster you could tackle it in two minute chunks here and there. Put “remove five clothing items I no longer wear” on your list. Repeat as needed.
When you find yourself waiting for something, such as the tea kettle coming to a boil, try to knock out something from your list.
If you’re having one of “those days” where nothing seems to be getting done, take 10 minutes to complete 5 tasks. Then, if you didn’t have a to do list for the day, write down these 5 tasks, cross them off and leave the list in some prominent place in the hopes someone in your household sees it and thinks you’ve actually completed your day’s list.
If you find yourself on a lengthy phone call with a chatty friend or relative, see if you can complete a few two minute tasks. Make sure to choose something quiet, though. And of course, if the topic is serious devote your complete attention to your caller.
Make a list of things you can do on your phone when waiting away from home. Answer an email, update your apps, delete duplicate photos, place an order, start a packing list for an upcoming trip, etc.

Where to keep your Two Minute list:

Add them to your daily to-do list, whether you use a paper or digital list.
Write them on a sticky note and put them on the refrigerator. This is good if the Two Minute List is for the whole family.
Keep them on your phone. This can be really helpful if your list includes things that can be done away from home.
Write them in your regular planner. I currently have mine in my bullet journal.
Start a small notebook or journal just for Two Minute tasks. Cross items off as you do them and add more. It can be deeply satisfying to look back at a list of completed tasks.

Consider Creating a Two Minute List for Self Care

Drink a glass of water.
Do several jumping jacks or jog in place for two minutes.
Take your vitamins.
Do a short meditation or simply close your eyes and breathe deeply.
Write in a gratitude journal.
Listen to your favorite song.
Light a candle.
Rub your favorite scented lotion on your hands, massaging gently for a couple of minutes.
Read a favorite poem.
Put on some lipstick and your favorite perfume. Yes, even in the middle of the day at home when no one will see (or smell) you.

Why a Two Minute List Works

It utilizes little pockets of time we might otherwise waste scrolling Facebook.
It can help stave off procrastination.
When faced with a big project that seems overwhelming, seeing it as a series of tiny steps can help you get started.
It’s easier to get family members to help when the task only takes two minutes.
Completing a task, even a teeny tiny one, often builds momentum.

More…

40 Things You Can Do in One Minute or Less That Will Make Your Life That Much Better

You may also enjoy:

A Weekly Planning Session

How to Create a To-Do List

Time Management Tips For Homemakers

Make Over Your Mornings

Make Over Your Evenings

Menu Monday ~ Back to Our Mediterranean Diet Plan

June 11, 2018 By Deanna Piercy 4 Comments

I’ve been “missing in action” around here but I’m back and hopefully things will get back to normal around here. David and I are determined to return to the healthy menu plan we had implemented several weeks ago.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Read more here.

DEE’S MENU

Monday

Mediterranean Sheet Pan Baked Shrimp and Veggies
mixed green salad with homemade fresh lemon vinaigrette
toasted baguette

Tuesday

Lentil Tacos
chips and salsa
Mexican Street Corn Salad

Wednesday

Slow Cooker Creamy French Mustard Chicken
mixed green salad with homemade vinaigrette
oven roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with garlic salt

Thursday

David will be out of town on business. There should be plenty of leftovers for my dinner.

Friday

Garlic Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken & Potatoes
salad
toasted baguette

Saturday

Date night!

Sunday

It’s Father’s Day so I’m going to make one of David’s favorites. The link is to a very old blog post and there’s no photo of the dish. I’ll try to remember to take a picture and update the post.

Sweet and Sour Meatballs
rice
fresh fruit salad

This post is linked up at I’m an Organizing Junkie. Check it out for more menu ideas!

LWD Book Club ~ June 2018

June 1, 2018 By Deanna Piercy 6 Comments

Summer officially arrives this month and with it, dreams of lazy afternoons totally absorbed in a good book. I’ve purposely selected somewhat lighter reading for the June book club, including a “beach read” I’m really looking forward to. No, I don’t have plans to go to a real beach this month but I’m going to make do with a lounge chair and inflatable pool in the backyard.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Read more here.

LWD JUNE BOOK CLUB SELECTIONS

The Little Book of Lykke: Secrets of the World’s Happiest People

In The Little Book of Lykke, Meik identifies the six factors that explain the majority of differences in happiness across the world—togetherness, money, health, freedom, trust, and kindness—and explores what actions we can take to become happier. As he reveals, we can deepen our blissfulness and contentment with little adjustments in our behavior, whether it’s eating like the French (sitting around a table and savoring our time) or dancing the tango like Argentinians in Buenos Aires.

Choosing the Simply Luxurious Life

How can you have a rich and fulfilling life? The choices you make, not your income or financial assets, are the most powerful determining factor for your quality of life. Women have never had so many options. Yet we often experience a kind of paralysis, an unconscious willingness to follow societal dictates rather than become the CEOs of our own lives. When we mindlessly follow the dots, we smother our innate gifts and miss opportunities to fulfill our true potential. There is another way—choosing to live a simply luxurious life. This book will show you how to invest your time and what to eliminate from your life.

The High Tide Club

When ninety-nine-year-old heiress Josephine Bettendorf Warrick summons Brooke Trappnell to Talisa Island, her 20,000 acre remote barrier island home, Brooke is puzzled. Everybody in the South has heard about the eccentric millionaire mistress of Talisa, but Brooke has never met her. Josephine’s cryptic note says she wants to discuss an important legal matter with Brooke, who is an attorney, but Brooke knows that Mrs. Warrick has long been a client of a prestigious Atlanta law firm. Over a few meetings, the ailing Josephine spins a tale of old friendships, secrets, betrayal and a long-unsolved murder. She tells Brooke she is hiring her for two reasons: to protect her island and legacy from those who would despoil her land, and secondly, to help her make amends with the heirs of the long dead women who were her closest friends, the girls of The High Tide Club—so named because of their youthful skinny dipping escapades—Millie, Ruth and Varina. When Josephine dies with her secrets intact, Brooke is charged with contacting Josephine’s friends’ descendants and bringing them together on Talisa for a reunion of women who’ve actually never met.

What’s better than curling up with a good book and a delicious cup of tea? And when the tea is named “Reading Nook“? Perfection.

Plum Deluxe “Reading Nook” tea blend

PREVIOUS LWD BOOK CLUB CHOICES:

Create a Summer Bucket List

May 30, 2018 By Deanna Piercy 5 Comments

Ah, the carefree days of summer. As a child I could barely wait for school to let out so my days would belong entirely to me. I loved to spend the mornings watching favorite television shows. Later, I might play “pioneers” with my brothers and cousins. There were the countless hours spent at my grandparents’ house next door playing, sharing “sweet tea and saltines”. And of course, lots of time to read.

Those summer days of childhood may be gone but with some planning it’s still possible to have an enjoyable season. It’s all too easy to let the days slip by and suddenly realize in September that we didn’t make the most of summertime.

I suggest creating a summer bucket list to make sure that doesn’t happen.

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS. READ MORE HERE.

Create a Summer Bucket List

1. Go swimming

If you have your own pool, lucky you! If not, there are still options. A nearby lake, community pool, YMCA/YWCA, a generous friend with a pool…

Or you can do what I’m planning to do this year. I’m setting up a large, inflatable pool in my backyard for the summer. It’s not nearly big enough to swim in but I can kick back in it and at least enjoy the water. I plan to play island music, sip piña coladas and pretend I’m at the beach.

2. Host a barbecue

Invite some friends over, throw some burgers or steaks on the grill, and enjoy the pleasure of dining alfresco.

3. Make homemade ice cream

We live near the peach capitol of Oklahoma and there is nothing to compare with the taste of homemade peach ice cream. I can’t wait!

4. Read your favorite children’s book

Remember what it felt like to spend an entire afternoon stretched out across your bed, totally engrossed in a book? Pull out that tattered copy of The Secret Garden, your favorite Nancy Drew mystery or, if you’re a lot younger than I am, Harry Potter. Clear your schedule and read for several hours, guilt-free.

5. Watch one of your favorite old television series from start to finish

Choose a series you own on DVD or have access to via Netflix, Hulu, etc. Start with the very first episode and watch all the way through. If you’re thinking, “I don’t have time for that!” consider substituting it for other mindless “entertainment” such as scrolling Facebook or Instagram. Or watch while on the treadmill.

I’m planning to watch Sex and the City this summer. I’ve only watched episodes here and there because we didn’t have HBO back in the days it was on television.

6. Take a road trip

It doesn’t have to be a two-week trek across the country (although it could be). A weekend trip can be fun, too. Or, if you really don’t have the time or money for a trip, just go for a long drive. Roll down the windows, blast some tunes and enjoy seeing something new.

7. Tackle a small organizing task

This may not seem like a fun thing to put on your bucket list but hear me out. There is something deeply satisfying about completing an organizing task you’ve been putting off. I’m not talking about decluttering and organizing your whole house, or even a whole room. I’m talking about something like a jewelry box, the household junk drawer, spices, or your DVD collection. Choose something that you can complete in less than an hour, turn on some music or listen to an audio book while you work.

8. Learn something new

Have you always wanted to learn how to can fresh produce? Summer is the perfect time. Perhaps you’ve always wanted to try your hand at making homemade tortillas or fresh pasta. Or maybe take a dance class and learn the salsa.

9. Take a “Staycation”

Even if you’re planning a real vacation, consider a staycation, as well. As Jane Austen said, “Ah! There is nothing like staying at home, for real comfort.” Whether for a week or just a weekend, vacationing in your own home can be the ultimate in true comfort and relaxation. Here are some great staycation ideas:

How to Kick Back, Relax, and Vacation at Home

10. Go to the movies

Is there anything better than sitting in a cool, dark theater munching on buttery popcorn on a hot, summer day? You don’t even have to get someone to go with you. If there is something you want to see and no one else in your family is interested or available, go by yourself.

I Went to a Movie Alone ~ and Why You Should Too

Have you ever created a Summer Bucket List? If so, I’d love to hear what’s on yours. Leave me a comment and I just might add your suggestion to my own list.

You may also enjoy these posts:

Summer Television

Sweet Tea and Saltines

Pioneer Play and Little House on the Prairie

Favorite Children’s Books

I Went to the Movies Alone…and Why You Should Too

Summer Fun ~ 10 Things on My Fun List

Easy Dinners For a Busy Week

May 21, 2018 By Deanna Piercy 6 Comments

Do you ever have one of those weeks when you know that things are going to be crazy? Of course you do. We’ve all experienced that. If you haven’t, teach me your ways, oh wise one. But for the rest of us mere mortals, let’s talk about how to get everyone fed during one of “those weeks”.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Read more here.

Easy Dinners

I’m an advocate for cooking from scratch and most of the time I do. But if it’s a choice between taking some shortcuts in the kitchen or picking up fast food, by all means, embrace those shortcuts! It’s still going to be far healthier than most anything you’ll find in a drive-thru.

Monday

I love a meal you can just stick in the oven and pretty much ignore. Place chicken breasts on a sheet pan, season to taste (I like garlic salt, pepper and Creole seasoning), cover with foil and place in 350 degree oven along with baking potatoes. About 30 minutes later, remove foil and brush with your favorite barbecue sauce. I like to make my own most of the time but there is a time for bottled BBQ sauce. This is it. Return to oven and continue cooking until chicken and potatoes are done.

A few minutes before chicken and potatoes are ready, cook some veggies. Those bags that steam in the microwave are just made for crazy, busy weeks. Dump a bag of salad in salad bowl, toss with your favorite dressing and dinner is ready!

baked chicken breasts with barbecue sauce
baked potatoes with butter and sour cream
steamed veggies
salad

Tuesday

Slow cookers are a lifesaver, especially if you are going to be away from home all day. Most of the time I like to brown the roast on the stove before placing in the slow cooker but you know what? It isn’t essential. If you’ve got to be out of the house early in the morning, skip that step. Season well, place in slow cooker, place potatoes, onions and carrots around and on top of roast, and add some liquid. I like to use about a tablespoon of worchestershire sauce and some red wine. Beef or vegetable broth work well, too. Set on low and look forward to coming home to the delicious smell of roast beef. Extra time saving tip: Use a bag of baby carrots instead of peeling regular ones.

Heat up some store bought rolls or bake a can of biscuits (yes, you have my permission to use canned biscuits!). Since you’ve already got vegetables cooked along with the roast just toss a quick salad and dinner is on the table.

roast, potatoes, onions and carrots in slow cooker
salad
biscuits or rolls

Wednesday

Be sure you’ve cooked a big enough roast for leftovers. Slice or shred the leftovers and heat on the stove with some barbecue sauce. Toast some deli rolls and place BBQ beef inside. Bake some sweet potato fries in the oven and serve with purchased cole slaw or potato salad. Tip: Your local BBQ joint is a good place to pick up the coleslaw or potato salad.

barbecue beef sandwiches (using leftover roast)
sweet potato fries
coleslaw or potato salad

Thursday

I like to make my own sauce but I also keep a jar or two in the pantry for busy nights. I like Aldi’s organic tomato basil sauce really well. Add a tablespoon of Italian seasoning and a splash of red wine to your favorite jarred sauce. Cook a bag of frozen meatballs, add to the heated sauce and serve over cooked pasta. While the meatballs are cooking, heat up some garlic bread and toss a salad. Super quick and easy!

spaghetti and meatballs
salad
garlic bread

Friday

Whether you choose a frozen pizza or delivery is up to you but Friday is pizza night. Add a quick salad and call it good.

pizza
salad

Saturday

Hopefully you can talk someone else in your household into grilling the burgers while you slice tomatoes and prepare the fruit. If the weather is nice, eat outdoors. Maybe even on paper plates!

burgers on grill
all the usual toppings
chips
fresh fruit

Sunday

Hopefully your busy week is drawing to a close and you can take a deep breath. Celebrate with a hearty brunch and let everyone over the age of 10 fend for themselves the rest of the day.

pancakes or waffles
eggs
bacon or sausage
mimosas

For more easy dinners, check out this post:

Easy Recipes for Spring Cleaning Week

What are your favorite easy dinners?

6 Books That Help Me Create a Beautiful Life, Plus 3 On My To Read List

May 16, 2018 By Deanna Piercy 2 Comments

For a number of years I’ve been on a mission to intentionally create a beautiful life. It’s not always easy but I do believe we each have the power within us to mold and shape a life that brings us joy. I draw inspiration from a number of sources but as a lifetime book lover, it’s no surprise that I often turn to the printed word to help me create the beautiful life I seek.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Read more here.

6 Books That Help Me Create a Beautiful Life

1. Living a Beautiful Life

I bought a copy of this book back in the early 90s and became an Alexandra Stoddard fan immediately. I was totally enchanted by the lifestyle portrayed and have since read almost everything she’s written. Living a Beautiful Life is chock full of delightful ideas for adding beauty to our homes and our daily lives. I re-read portions of this book fairly often.

2. Chic & Slim

I “met” Anne Barone, the author of the Chic & Slim books (there are several) in a Yahoo Group many years ago. She was one of the first to try to explain just what it is about French women’s lifestyle that keeps them slim. Far more than a diet book, Chic & Slim explores the culture and daily lifestyle of the French. There is much to emulate here.

3. Lessons From Madame Chic

This beautifully-written book by Jennifer L. Scott reveals many secrets of the French “je ne sais quoi” that many of us find so alluring. Ms. Scott has published two additional books and is working on another. I will be reading them all!

I wrote a 4-part review of this book which you can read here.

4. The Cozy Life

While I admittedly draw much of my inspiration from the French, I have also been smitten by the Danish concept of “hygge”. I’ve written a couple of posts on the subject:

How to Create Your Own Cozy Hygge Corner

Hygge in the Springtime

5. Lagom (Not too little, not too much)

While “hygge” has become extremely popular in the past couple of years, the Swedish “lagom” is just starting to enjoy widespread popularity. I’m reminded of the childhood story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears in which Goldilocks discovers that which is “just right”.

American culture is often a study in extremes. Hoarding or minimalism. Obesity or eating disorders. Overwork or excessive idleness. Lagom is all about moderation and balance – something I believe to be a worthy goal.

6. The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning

This last book may seem an odd choice but hear me out. If you aren’t familiar with the concept of “death cleaning”, here is what the author has to say about it:

“Death cleaning is not about dusting or mopping up; it is about a permanent form of organization that makes your everyday life run more smoothly,” she explains. And you may even find the process itself enjoyable, she adds. “It is a delight to go through things and remember their worth.”

The idea is to avoid leaving a gigantic task to your loved ones when you die. The author suggests this should be undertaken somewhere around one’s sixth decade but it can certainly be done earlier. In fact, I would argue that it’s not a bad idea to have this concept in the back of one’s mind even if you’re only 30 years old. Many of us accumulate way more than we actually need or enjoy and that excess complicates our lives.

Life With Dee‘s tagline is “create a beautiful life” so it should come as no surprise that I am constantly on the lookout for resources to help me do just that. If you have any suggestions I’d love to hear about them!

Three More On My To-Read List:

You may also enjoy these posts:

Aging Gracefully ~ How the French Woman Does It

LWD’s Favorite Francophile Books

Create a Beautiful Life ~ Afternoon Tea Ritual

5 Lessons I Learned From ‘Little Women’

May 11, 2018 By Deanna Piercy 5 Comments

I don’t recall exactly how old I was the first time I read Little Women but I’m guessing I was around 10. I loved it and have read it several times over the years. A brand new three-part adaptation premiers this Sunday on Masterpiece Theater and I am so excited to see it! There have been several adaptations over the years:

Little Women Movie & TV Adaptations

Yesterday I had the opportunity to see the 1949 version starring June Allyson, Elizabeth Taylor, Janet Leigh and Margaret O’Brien at a local theater. I had dozens of things on my to-do list but some things are more important. I hadn’t seen this particular version before. As I watched I was reminded of some of the lessons that can be learned from this classic story.

5 Lessons from “Little Women”

1. It’s better to give than to receive.

The March girls give up their own Christmas presents in order to buy gifts for their hard working “Marmee” and experience the joy in giving to someone they love. In a more challenging lesson, they give their Christmas breakfast to a very poor and hungry family. It’s not so difficult to give to someone dear to us but to give to someone outside our circle of family and close friends stretches us and deepens our sense of empathy.

2. Money doesn’t buy happiness.

Both Aunt March and Mr. Laurence, the “old gentleman” next door have riches that anyone might envy. And yet money hasn’t brought either of them happiness. Aunt March is a cantankerous woman and quite difficult to get along with. Mr. Laurence can be rather crabby himself but we find over time that he is actually rather kind. Still, he’s not a happy man.

3. We all have character flaws but we can work to overcome them.

Meg is prideful; Jo is rebellious; Amy is vain; Beth is timid. Each girl possesses a character flaw with which she struggles. And while elements of those traits no doubt remain deep within, each girl makes great strides in overcoming these challenges.

4. Friendship is a valuable treasure.

The four March girls are not only sisters, they are one another’s truest friends. They also develop a close friendship with Laurie, the boy next door. These relationships sustain them through difficult times.

5. Listen to well-meaning advice.

All of the girls are the recipients of Marmee’s wise counsel and are the better for it. And while it was painful for her to accept at first, Professor Bhaer’s reaction to Jo’s early writings ultimately makes her a better writer.

Have you read Little Women? What did you think of it? Do you have a favorite movie adaptation? Are you planning to watch the new version? Who is your favorite March girl?

~~~~~

I’m now even more excited to see the new adaptation and truly hope it does the story justice. Click the photo below for more information if you want to see it, too.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Read more here.

Menu Monday ~ May 7, 2018

May 7, 2018 By Deanna Piercy 6 Comments

Hello, friends! I hope your week is getting off to a good start and that your weather is as gorgeous as ours. This weekend was simply perfect and I see lovely weather ahead for us this whole week. Yay! You’ll notice that we have grilled burgers on our menu this week. It always makes me happy when we can fire up the grill. Let’s see what else is cooking this week.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Read more here.

DEE’S MENU

Monday

Mediterranean Sheet Pan Baked Shrimp and Veggies
tossed green salad

Tuesday

Easy Moroccan Vegetable Tagine
naan bread
fresh fruit

Wednesday

grilled burgers
lettuce, tomato, onions and other burger toppings
sweet potato fries
corn on the cob

Thursday

We have an event this evening. David is setting up sound for live music and since it’s at a Mexican restaurant we’ll eat there.

Friday

French roasted chicken
roasted red potatoes
broccoli
tossed green salad
toasted baguette

Saturday

big salads with leftover chicken, veggies, etc.

Sunday

It’s Mothers Day and my son-in-law’s birthday. We usually all go out to eat together.

WHAT’S COOKING AT YOUR HOUSE THIS WEEK?

MEAL PLANNING RESOURCES I RECOMMEND

Meal Planning That Saves You Time and Money – includes links to free printables!
30 Ways to Save on Groceries

Eat At Home weekly meal plans:

- - - Do you want to eat a healthy, organic, grass fed diet but don’t think you can afford it? My friend, Victoria of A Modern Homestead, explains how they do it on less than $200 a month. Click here to find out how:

This post is linked up at I’m an Organizing Junkie. Check it out for more great menu ideas!

My Top 10 Favorite Things to Buy at Aldi

May 4, 2018 By Deanna Piercy 2 Comments

I had been hearing about Aldi for years so I was delighted when we finally got one here in our small town. As you know if you’ve been following me very long, my daughter and I do a monthly grocery shopping trip to the city together most months. We started that years ago because we try to eat a mostly organic diet and our local options for organics was pretty abysmal.

We still like to do our monthly trips together but with Aldi we now have a local store that carries a lot of organic/natural items. Here are my top 10 favorite things to buy at Aldi.

Top 10 Aldi Favorites

1. Chocolate

I have to start with the chocolate. I love the German chocolates that Aldi carries.

These little dark chocolate squares are one of my favorites. A couple of them with a cup of hot tea in the evening is a perfect way to end the day.

And then there is this. I just bought it for the first time this past week and I do believe I have found my new favorite. Dark chocolate and sea salt. What’s not to love?

2. Cottage Cheese

There were a number of culture shocks when I moved from California to Oklahoma. One that I’ve never really adjusted to is the consistency of cottage cheese around here. I grew up eating Knudsen brand which has a very small curd and an almost dry texture. This soupy stuff they call cottage cheese here just doesn’t do it for me. However, the Friendly Farms brand cottage cheese which Aldi carries is much closer to what I grew up with. I’m even willing to forego organic because of the better texture.

3. Yogurt

I made my own yogurt for years and one of these days I’ll get back into the habit. In the meantime I’m happy that Aldi carries organic whole milk yogurt. It can be rather difficult to find yogurt made with whole milk. This is what I put in our morning smoothies so I buy the plain. However, I’ve also tried the vanilla and it’s delicious if you want something to eat by itself.

4. Grass Fed Ground Beef

Grass fed beef can be really expensive so I was thrilled when our local Aldi began carrying grass fed ground beef on a regular basis. I try to always have a package in the freezer.

5. “Never Any” chicken

Organic chicken is another expensive purchase. I do still buy some on my monthly trips to the city but I also buy the Never Any brand that Aldi carries. It has no antibiotics or steroids, was raised cage-free and is fresh – never frozen. I especially like the whole chickens and the really thin chicken breast cutlets. I can cook the thin cutlets in just a few minutes and either make some sort of sauce or cut them in strips to top a salad. Very handy for a quick meal!

6. Brioche buns

I occasionally make my hamburger buns and they are really good. But these days I simply do not have time to do that very often. That’s why I’m so happy that Aldi carries these wonderful brioche buns. A grilled, grass fed burger on one of these babies is a perfect summer meal. I also like to toast one and make myself a tuna sandwich for lunch. They are soft, very slightly sweet and the ingredients are recognizable and few.

7. Organic Salad Dressing

I will always prefer a good quality bleu cheese dressing on my salad but since we are trying to eat healthier, I save that for restaurant meals. This is what we are using at home these days (unless I make a homemade lemon and olive oil dressing) and it’s really good.

8. Pasta Sauce

I generally make my own pasta sauce but I still like to keep at least one jar of the Simply Nature Organic Tomato Basil Marinara Sauce in my pantry. I always have angel hair pasta, too, so I can throw together a meal in just a few minutes. This sauce is quite good on its own but I find it difficult to leave well enough alone when it comes to cooking. A sprinkle of Penzeys Italian Herb Mix and a splash of red wine takes it up a notch with virtually no effort.

9. Organic Mixed Salad Greens

We eat a lot of salad. A LOT! I love this mix of organic greens and the price is excellent.

10. Organic Black Beans

I buy black beans in bulk and often cook them in my Instant Pot. If you take a peek at my Instant Pot recipes in the drop down menu under the header you’ll see a few there. However, like with the pasta sauce, sometimes you need something super quick. I really like Aldi’s brand of organic black beans. The texture is better than other organic brands I have tried.

And those are my top ten Aldi picks. I’d love to hear YOUR favorites. Tell me what is usually in your shopping cart at Aldi and why you love it.

Bonus:

11. Fresh Flowers

The very first thing I check when I walk into Aldi is their fresh flower display. Sometimes they are getting a bit tired looking but most of the time I can find a lovely little bouquet for just a few dollars. Fresh flowers are one of my favorite things in the whole wide world and if I can get some for less than $5 I’m a happy camper.

Disclosure: This post was NOT sponsored and I received no compensation. I just happen to love Aldi.