<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2009/11/menu-plan-monday-nov-23rd.html"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://i670.photobucket.com/albums/vv65/ANOTHERNEWSEASON/Thanksgiving.jpg" alt="" width="175" height="200" /></a></p>

This past week has been a little unorganized, to say the least. I forgot to plan my menu last week and that was a big mistake! I had to scramble for meals all week. Menu planning is crucial in our house for helping us to stay on budget and keep sane. You think I'm joking, but it really does impact my attitude and stress level each night.

I sat down today and planned 2 weeks worth of meals. I think working in 2 weeks increments works best for me and it also helps me to try to use up items we have in the freezer and pantry.

This week's menu will be a breeze, thanks to Thanksgiving. I'll be on the look out for some good Turkey leftover recipe ideas for Friday's dinner!

Monday: <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/tasty-kitchen/recipes/main-courses/italian-meatloaf-moms-best" target="_blank">Meatloaf</a>, Steamed Vegetables and mashed potatoes
Tuesday: <a href="http://crockpot365.blogspot.com/2008/10/crockpot-butternut-squash-soup-recipe.html" target="_blank">Crockpot Butternut Squash</a>, Chopped Salad and Italian Bread
Wednesday: Homemade Pizza (thank you Pillsbury Thin Crust Pizza Dough!)
Thursday: Thanksgiving!! Hooray!
Friday: Turkey hangover, I mean leftovers!
Saturday:<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/tasty-kitchen/recipes/main-courses/katye28099s-quick-and-easy-kielbasa/" target="_blank">Kilbasa</a> with steamed veggies and baked potatoes

NEXT WEEK:

Sunday: Leftovers, so mom can rest
Monday: <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/tasty-kitchen/recipes/main-courses/pasta-with-smoked-bacon-butternut-squash-and-spinach/" target="_blank">Pasta with Smoked Bacon, Butternut Squash and Spinach</a> - I can't wait to try this recipe, it sounds delicious!
Tuesday: Barbecue Sandwiches (from the freezer), steamed veggies
Wednesday: Soup and Salad (canned soup - EASY!)
Thursday: Quiche with homemade muffins
Friday: Date Night!
Saturday: Leftovers
Sunday: Work Christmas Party