Hello! Let me introduce myself.

Hey there! I’m Jackie, a mom of five (six if we’re counting my husband, and trust me, we are). I know what it’s like to feel like you’re juggling a hundred things at once—with a kitchen that always looks like a food tornado just swept through. Meal planning for us isn’t some Pinterest-perfect vision of organized containers; it’s a lifeline. It’s what keeps the kids fed and me (mostly) sane.

Around here, you won’t find gourmet meals that take hours to make—who’s got that kind of time? Instead, you’ll get no-nonsense tips, down-to-earth recipes, and realistic advice for those of us who know that some days, the real MVP is the pizza delivery guy. I’m all about keeping things practical, and totally honest, so you can spend less time cooking and more time wrangling kiddos, folding laundry, or maybe even sneaking a quiet cup of coffee. (One can dream, right?)

The Real Deal on Meal Planning for Big Families

Let’s be real—meal planning with a big family isn’t some organized, color-coded schedule. It’s figuring out how to cook once and stretch it out over a few days without hearing, “We’re having that again?”

Why Meal Planning Saves the Day (and Your Sanity)

With a big family, cooking from scratch every night is not just ambitious; it’s borderline impossible. That’s why meal planning is a must. By doubling recipes and planning for leftovers, you can save time, cut down on last-minute grocery runs, and even keep your budget in check. And the best part? Less time in the kitchen means more time for everything else life throws at you.

Here’s what meal planning can do:

  • Reduce Stress: No more 5 p.m. panic over “What’s for dinner?” You’ve got a plan, and maybe even a backup plan, because kids and schedules don’t always cooperate.
  • Save Money: Meal planning lets you buy in bulk, skip the takeout, and make the most of what’s in the pantry.
  • Limit Waste: Cooking for a crowd means there’s not much left on the table, but planning meals ahead helps make sure you’re using every ingredient.

So, if you’re ready to bring a little order to the chaos, Meal Planning Blueprints is here to help. I’ll tackle everything from batch cooking to freezer-friendly meals to help you get ahead, stay ahead, and—fingers crossed—have a few moments to yourself.