Realistic Homemaker

Kim O'Bier

How to Start Decluttering Again When You’re Overwhelmed

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Finding the time and motivation to work on a home decluttering project that has been put on hold can be difficult. Here are some practical tips to help you get back in there and finish what you started.

white shelf with 3 baskets, clear bottle and blue bottle with babies breath and how to declutter your home text

Re-start the decluttering process successfully in your home with these five tips.

Maybe you were really pumped up when you first started decluttering your home. Then, for whatever reason, the project came to a halt.

Whether you just couldn’t find the time to get around to it, or you were overwhelmed by the mess…or maybe there was an illness. Things come up!

Or maybe you just got burnt out. And that’s normal. Because, that happens to all of us. Or, most of us.

At least, it happens to me anyway.

In fact, I launched my own MASSIVE home decluttering project a few years back. I went through tons of bags and boxes, closets, under beds… You name it, I tackled it.

And it was fun while it lasted. But, at some point, I was DONE.

I wasn’t finished….I was just done working on it. Yet, I still desired a less cluttered, more organized home for myself and for my family.

And I could see that the work I had already put in was paying off big time.

But it was it was hard to fit in “decluttering” with the other regular life stuff like keeping house, cooking, and homeschooling that I already felt like I could barely keep up with.

I wish I could say that I jumped right back in there after a short break and started cleaning things out like crazy. But, the truth is I was burnt out. And it took awhile for me to figure out how to get started again in a way that was sustainable.

Maybe you’re overwhelmed and stuck in your decluttering journey like I was.

And maybe, as badly as you want to finish what you started, you just can’t figure out how to get things rolling again.

Here are some tips that helped me (and hopefully will help you) get back on track.

This post may include affiliate links. You can read my full disclosure policy HERE.

1. Check in with your goals

When you first got into this whole decluttering thing, you probably had an idea of what you wanted your home to look or feel like when you came out on the other side.

Take a look around your home. What were those original goals?

Clear counters? Papers organized so that you can always find what you need, when you need it? Drawers and cabinets that actually shut? (Maybe things aren’t that bad at your house, but hopefully you get the idea)

For some of us, our number one goal is to NOT DIE of embarrassment when someone drops in unexpectedly. Or asks to use our bathroom. Or needs access to our hot water heater or some other broken thing that is currently hiding in the wreckage but needs emergency repair.

Sometimes, just remembering why we started something to begin with gives us the inspiration to keep on going.

2. Finish something you previously started

You probably have one or more unfinished decluttering projects you had started before.

There can be many advantages to tackling a halfway, or even somewhat partially finished project.

  • It probably won’t take as long to complete
  • After you finish, you will have a sense of accomplishment
  • If it was important enough to start before, then it’s probably important enough to finish now
  • You’ll get your head in the game faster by picking up where you left off

Zoom in on one of those areas that you already tackled once upon a time (the smallest one would be my suggestion) and knock that one out for a win!

3. Try the 5-7-9 Gentle Decluttering Method

Maybe the thought of emptying a whole closet full of clothes, or all of the food in your pantry, or just tackling any entire space all at once right now, is just too daunting.

If that’s the case, then you might need a more “gentle” approach to help you get back into that mental space of “I just want this stuff gone and I want my house back”

One way you can do that is to use the 5-7-9 method.

With the 5-7-9 approach, you don’t need to gather boxes and bags before you start. You are simply going to choose a problem area in your home and set a timer for 9 minutes.

Then, during that 9 minutes, you’re going to remove between 5 and 7 items and take each one to the place where it belongs. And that could be in another area of your home, the trashcan, or the donation box.

(I have a donation box or bag going all the time for just this purpose. And other family members know that it’s there if they need to get rid of something.)

One of the great things about this method is that there is no preparation time and there are no props that you have to gather. Nothing to slow you down.

And you’re getting back into that decluttering mindset gradually, while seeing progress along the way. That progress tells our brains “hey, this is working! I can do this!”

4. Start with small projects

Choosing quick and doable projects at first will help you get back into the decluttering habit.

Here are a few ideas:

  • one pantry shelf
  • nightstand
  • one refrigerator drawer or shelf
  • junk drawer
  • under the kitchen sink
  • one bag or tote of miscellaneous “stuff”

You could also choose a space that you partially finished before. For instance, if you previously tackled the laundry room, and it’s kind of starting to look like a disaster area again, then that could be the perfect project to reignite that decluttering fire in your belly.

>> Related Post: How to Clean Your Messy House When You Don’t Know Where to Start

5. Making time for decluttering

If not having enough time to declutter is a problem for you (and let’s be real who doesn’t have a problem with finding time to do things these days) then you might have to get more intentional with taking time for your project.

One way to do that is to simply schedule it in during your day. Write it on your to-do list. Set an alarm on your phone. Or just plan to do it at a certain time when you know you will be reminded.

For example, if you’re working on your laundry room then you might plan a short declutter session after you’ve put clothes in the washing machine.

Another way to work decluttering sessions into your day is to just do it when the urge hits you.

We somehow always manage to pile up a particular closet near the kitchen with random stuff. Lately, I have made that closet my focus to unclutter. So, if I have a few minutes after lunch, or there’s less clean up after dinner than usual, I’ll set my timer and use those few extra minutes to work on that closet.

Those little chunks of time matter. Whether you declutter just a few items. or tidy one small area of your kitchen. That’s one more win!

And it’s one less thing that is holding you back from having a home that you love. 

More related articles:

text "how to re-start decluttering your home when you're burnt-out" picture woman's arms holding folded stack of laundry

How to Re-start a Home Decluttering Project When You’re Overwhelmed

10 Simple Ways to Organize Pots and Pans in Your Kitchen

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Save time and frustration with these simple solutions for storing cookware in your kitchen. Here are the tips, tools and ideas you need to easily organize and declutter your pots and pans once and for all.

cast iron cookware on white window ledge

If you’ve ever had to deal with pots, pans, and random bakeware stacked and stuffed into kitchen cabinets, then you know the inconveniences that unorganized cookware can cause.

For me, it meant wasted time digging through precariously stacked pieces. And things clashing and clanking, falling every-which-way as I tried to pry loose the thing I needed.

The chaos resounding from the kitchen would prompt my family to ask “are you okay?” and “what was that crashing sound?”

“If you can organize your kitchen, you can organize your life.” – Louis Parrish

My 1990’s cabinets made finding the perfect cookware storage solution a bit of a challenge. Older cabinets lack those nifty deep drawers like the newer cabinets have, for instance.

I even tried one of those hanging pot racks over my kitchen island, but it was always leaning to one side or the other. It attracted dust. And it made my kitchen look even more cluttered.

I did eventually find some amazing organizational tools that work for traditional as well as modern cabinets. And the result has been nothing short of miraculous.

I can honestly say that organizing my pots and pans has changed my kitchen experience.

And, therefore, my life.

So, if you hate clashing metallic noises and digging through stacked frying pans as much as I do, check out these ideas for quick and easy cookware organization.

(This post may include affiliate links. You can read my full disclosure policy HERE.)

Space saving in-cabinet pots and pans storage

pull-out pots pans and lids organizer with stainless cookware

1. Pullout organizer does double and triple duty

This type of storage organizer has rolling pullout shelves with dividers, and actually installs inside of your kitchen cabinet.

slide-out chrome pots and pans organizer

I have used this one, Rev-A-Shelf 2-Tier Wire Pull Out Organizer for Pots, Pans, and Lids, for several years.

This particular design has two sliding wire shelves, is extremely sturdy, and pretty simple to set up.

The Rev-A-Shelf holds all of my everyday stainless steel pots and pans, along with their lids, strainers, and other accessories.

And, if I want to add something or change things around, I can adjust it in seconds just by sliding the dividers along the wire base.

Having everything plainly visible and easily accessible saves me so much time in the kitchen.

stainless cookware in pull-out organizer

This organizer has been nothing short of miraculous for storing pots and pans in my older cabinets.

Need a one-tier or other type of design? You can find other styles, sizes, and price-points here.

2. Chefs love this vertical tiered pot rack with multiple options

The GeekDigg Pot Rack Organizer, Adjustable Height and Position, Kitchen Counter and Cabinet Pan Organizer holds up to eight pots and pans with their lids on. So, there will be no more searching for the right sized lid.

black pots on tiered pot rack

This nifty contraption has three options for configuration. So, it can be used vertically two different ways, or laying horizontally.

Users say it is a cinch to assemble. 

I’ll have to admit, I have never used one of these storage racks myself, but the reviewers love this one for its durability, flexibility, and use of vertical space.

Storing heavy duty and cast iron pans

cast iron pans on kitchen counter

3. Sturdy wire rack does the job

My cast iron pieces store nicely in a simple vintage coated wire rack that I thrifted a few years back. It is very similar to the ones in this budget-friendly 2-Pack Simple Houseware Kitchen Bakeware Cabinet Organizer.

two racks with pots, pans and cutting boards

I like how the coated wire sort of “cushions” the pans and doesn’t scratch or disturb the finish.

These racks are substantial in weight and have rubber feet to keep them from sliding around when you are reaching for or replacing an item.

4. Heavy duty rack stores larger cookware with ease

heavy black pots and pans on vertical rack

The Heavy Duty Extra Large 5-Tier Pan Organizer Rack is another great choice for storing your enamelware and cast iron cookware.

This one holds up to 60 pounds, and can even accommodate larger pieces, such as dutch ovens and deep skillets.

It is attractive enough for countertop storage, and can be placed vertically or horizontally to best fit your space.

Best minimalist pots and pans storage

5. Compact sized rack is perfect for storing cookware in small kitchens

For adjustable storage of fewer items, the YouCopia Storemore Pan and Lid Rack could be just what you need.

teal and silver kitchen items in rack

The YouCopia has dividers that can be placed exactly where you need them to accommodate different sizes.

A white finish gives it a clean, minimalistic look that is nice enough to display right on your kitchen counter. Yet, it is small enough to tuck into a cabinet.

Pro Tip:

>>Declutter your cookware while you are reorganizing it! Get rid of scratched or warped pieces, duplicates, and things you no longer use. Make room for the good stuff!

6. Expandable storage rack fits minimalists’ needs

cookware in white storage rack

The larger cousin to the above compact storage rack, this YouCopia StoreMore Expandable Cookware Rack actually expands in length from 12” to 22” to fit your space.

Also adjustable, this one has the flexibility to meet your storage needs and a style that fits any decor.

Wall-mount kitchen organizers

 

wall pot rack with stainless and cast iron pots

7. Hanging storage organizers utilize wall space

If you’re short on cabinet and counter space, you might think about trying a wall storage unit like this Lyon Kitchen Organization and Storage Rack for Hanging Pots and Pans to store your cookware.

Wall units come in an array of finishes, styles, and sizes, and can hold everything from stock pots to frying pans.

For a large capacity option, this Miyili Wall Mounted Pot Rack offers two-tiered shelving and fifteen hooks.

This one has room for even more of your cookware, plus your favorite cooking utensils and accessories.

meal plan master list tips

8. Simple rail design is minimal and effective

pot bar rack with pots and pans

The rail or pipe design can work in a kitchen where counter and cabinet space is lacking. They can be mounted in obscure locations, such as below the upper cabinets, and can hold quite a bit.

This Oropy 39” Pot Bar Rack Utensils Hanger with 14 S Hooks comes in copper or cast iron. Reviewers love its simple styling and durability.

DIY Tip: You can also accomplish this look with an industrial towel bar like this one Vintage Style 16 Inch – Heavy Duty Rustic Hand Towel Bar and a few S hooks. 

Storing sheet pans and bakeware

baking sheets and muffin pans in cabinet organizer

9. Bakeware racks offer quick and simple solution

white bakeware rack with teal and metal pans

For organizing cookie sheets, muffin pans, cutting boards, baking stones and more, bakeware racks are more than practical. Most require minimal or no assembly, and come in many lengths to fit a variety of cabinets and shelves.

The YouCopia Bakeware Storemore Adjustable Rack gets amazing reviews. It has movable dividers. Non-slip feet will keep it in place when you are removing or replacing your cookware.

black rack with pot lids

As an ultra budget-friendly option, this Kitchen Bakeware Pot Lid Rack Holder Organizer is the perfect choice. It is the same style that I use in my kitchen.

I like it for its simplicity and for the wide spaces that accommodate many different kitchen items.

10. Slide-out organizer is sleek and convenient

chrome slide out rack with muffin pan cutting board and cookie sheet

A pullout style rack keeps all of your bakeware sorted and easy to access. The Lynk Slide Out Cutting Board, Bakeware, and Tray Organizer Pull Out Kitchen Cabinet Rack rolls right out from the cabinet so you can view everything at once, making it easy to find what you’re looking for every time.

Users have great things to say about this one, including that it “looks very professional,” and is “sturdy and easy to install.”

SHOP COOKWARE STORAGE ON AMAZON

What about stock pots and large roasting pans

Large cookware that doesn’t work in a cookware rack, such as deep stock pots and roasting pans, can present a storage challenge for sure. Just their mere size can make it hard to find a place for them.

My larger stainless steel pots are simply stacked and nested in the large cabinet space underneath my stovetop.

Here are some other ideas for storing large cookware:

What to do with oversized lids and odd accessories

Some of my larger lids store nicely in my 2-tiered pullout organizer, either in the top or bottom rack.

Large and even oversized lids usually work well in a simple cookware rack. My huge glass lid to my large frying pan works great in one of these racks along with my cast iron pans.

DIY Tip: Attach a towel bar to the inside of a cabinet or cabinet door for cookware lid storage. This one from 3M Command sticks right on and removes without damage. How cool is that?!

Pro Tip:

>>Nest large lids inside of larger pans in your cookware rack.

Related post: 10 Simple Habits for a Cleaner Kitchen

>>Check out more storage and organization ideas for pots and pans HERE.

cast iron pans on wood surface with text how to organize pots and pans
stainless steel cookware with text 10 ways to organize your pots and pans

How To Clean Your Messy House When You Don’t Know Where To Start

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When the mess in your home has you stressed out, and you don’t know where to start cleaning it up, there is hope! Here’s how you can get motivated and clean that house up, even when it is a REALLY huge mess!

If you are looking around your house and thinking, “It’s just too hard. I CAN’T EVEN DEAL with this disaster.” then you might be suffering from Messy House Overwhelm.

It’s frustrating and sometimes even depressing.

I have been there more times than I would like to admit. And, as hopeless as it might seem, I promise you CAN get your house, or any room for that matter, CLEAN!

WHAT HOLDS US BACK FROM CLEANING OUR MESSY HOUSE

We might expect the process to be painful.

And, we would rather be doing something else. Or, ANYTHING else actually.

But, that’s okay! Because this clean-up plan offers us quick results, with less pain involved.

And, this is NOT an all day deep cleaning extravaganza. Not that you can’t do it all in one day. You can use this approach however it works for you.

The goal here is to take some of the sting out of the process by starting with small, incremental tasks that will give us big wins. That’s what this clean-up plan is all about.

Overwhelmed exhausted woman feeling tired of cleaning in her messy house sitting on the floor with toys and laundry lying around her

FINDING THE MOTIVATION TO CLEAN A MESSY HOUSE

Just wanting a clean house isn’t enough for us to get our cleaning groove on. We can feel stuck…even paralyzed by the chaos.

We know that our family will benefit from a cleaner space. It might even seem that we owe it to our spouse or our children.

But don’t we also owe it to ourselves to have the level of cleanliness in our homes that we desire?

Tidy, clean, relaxing…whatever that means to you. You owe it to yourself. And I believe that you are ready to put in the effort and claim it.

You have already taken the first step just by reading this post today!

(This post may include affiliate links for your convenience. Read my full disclosure policy HERE.)

(After you have tackled the mess, 5 Simple Habits for a Cleaner Home has some useful tips for keeping it under control!)

HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

Kitchen Timer

Clothes Basket or Storage Tote (Clutter Basket)

Trash Bin or Bag

Microfiber Cloths

Dusting Spray for Wood Surfaces (this one is non-toxic and is my fave)

All-Purpose Cleaning Spray (this is an awesome non-toxic spray or you can use/make your own)

Vacuum Cleaner (this is one amazing machine)

For our home, I choose to use cleaning products that are non-toxic and fragrance-free. This one is really good. Or, you can save tons of money by making your own with natural products that clean as well or better than chemicals!

Some things, like mirrors and some surfaces, can be cleaned with only microfiber cloths and water!

FOCUSING ON “DONE”, NOT “PERFECT”

Repeat after me: “Progress, not Perfection!!“

This is about getting it done, not getting it done to precision. Consequently, we don’t need to hunt down every dust bunny and find every speck of dirt.

Also, this is not a good time to get distracted by going on a purging spree. Ultimately, however, you make the rules. So if a few things make it into the donation box along the way, no biggie.

This strategy gives you a clear idea of where you left off and where to start again. So, don’t be frustrated if life gets in the way. Just roll with the interruptions.

And you and I both know that unless the stars align, and pigs start to fly, you are going to be interrupted.

The goal here is to make it as pain-free as possible, and maybe even pleasant. Shoot…you can even have fun if you want to!

So, turn on some of your favorite jam (or a good podcast if that’s what motivates you) and let’s see what we can do.

Man hangs his outside shirt on a hook in hallway

WHERE SHOULD YOU START CLEANING WHEN EVERYTHING IS A DISASTER?

Even if there are other areas of our home that need attention, it just feels good to have a somewhat clean and welcoming entrance.

For us, this is our mudroom area. That’s the last space we see as we leave the house, and the first thing we experience when we return.

Of course, if it’s the living area that really needs emergency attention, then feel free to start there. You can always tackle that room first and then come back to the entryway.

(Think you are failing at homemaking? Read 7 Encouragements for When You Are Struggling as a Homemaker)

HOW TO DO THIS THING: SIMPLE STEPS FOR CLEANING A REALLY MESSY HOUSE

Alright, here we go.

Armed with your basket and timer, head to the area or room closest to your home’s most used entrance (or living area if that’s what you plan to tackle first). Leave the cleaning products behind for now.

Choose a small section of that room and set your timer for 10 minutes. This will help to keep you on task and encourage you to steadily work.

If there are things on the floor, begin there and work quickly in that section, putting items in their proper place.

Next, still working in that section, start on the things that are on the furniture and other surfaces. Remove items from that section that don’t belong and place them in the “clutter basket” to be put away later.

If you are done with a section before the timer goes off, use that time to put away some of the items in the clutter basket, or just reset the timer and move on to the next section.

Now you’re cruisin’!

Continue moving clockwise around the room, resetting the timer for each section. Each time it goes off, you can have the satisfaction of knowing that you have reached a small goal, and that you are 10 minutes closer to accomplishing the much larger goal of having a cleaner home!

Do as many sections as your schedule or your energy allows. Or continue until you have worked your way around the room and are back where you started.

The hardest part is done!

smiling woman wiping white bookshelves

CLEANING THE MESSY SURFACES

It’s time to tackle the actual dust, grime and dirt that has accumulated.

Set your timer for 5 minutes and do any refinements that might be needed before bringing in the cleaning supplies, like putting furniture back in place or picking up something that you missed the first time around.

Grab your cleaning cloths and spray cleaner if you’re using one. Use paper towels, too, if you need them. Yes, I know that some people consider them to be wasteful but if it’s a really grungy, icky, gross mess, a paper towel can be a wonderful thing!

Now, go back to the first section you chose in the beginning.

Start with the highest surfaces in that section, spraying, wiping, and cleaning…or dusting that surface.

Work down from the upper surfaces to the lower in each section as you move around the room.

Get your groove on!

Whistle. Sing. Dance.

Might as well burn some extra calories and get some endorphins flowing while you do this thing.

Spray. Wipe. Repeat.

I like to spray my cloth as opposed to the surface so that I am not sending dust and other stuff into the air.

If you like using the timer and it motivates you, totally use it for this part too!

If you are interrupted or have to stop cleaning, make a note of the section where you left off.

This way, there won’t be any guesswork when you come back to it later.

Cleaning floor in room close-up of womans feet and mop

FINALLY…CLEANING THE FLOORS

Give the floor a good vacuuming. This should only take a few minutes.

Next, if the floor is hard surfaced you can either “spot clean” as I like to call it, or scrub the whole shebang if it needs it.

I find that scrubbing or mopping the floor doesn’t take very long, but for some reason it is one of my least favorite chores. So, if you’re like me, you might need some really upbeat music and a fun, fancy mop for this task.

If the “clutter basket” has items in it, now is a good time to take the basket around the house and deliver those things to their proper places.

Congratulations!

That wasn’t too hard, I hope.

Now, look around (quickly, while it lasts) and take in the awesomeness of your clean space.

Of course this is not the ONLY way to approach cleaning a super messy house.

But it is effective… and doable. That’s what counts!

And the results are so rewarding!

RECAP:

  • Know that you owe it to yourself to have a space that is clean and enjoyable.
  • Start close to the main entrance of your home, or in another area that needs immediate emergency attention.
  • Use 10 minute increments to clean small sections of a room.
  • Work up from the floor as you clear the mess.
  • Put things that don’t belong in that room in a “clutter basket” and put them away later.
  • Wipe and clean surfaces, working from high to low in each section of the room.
  • Shake it up and have fun…might as well!
  • Vacuum and clean floors.
  • Look around and marvel at your super cleaning powers.

SOME PRO TIPS:

~ I like to load my dishwasher before diving in to the cleaning process so it can be running while I am working on other areas of the house. By the time I get back around to the kitchen, one load of dishes is already clean. I can unload it and load it again if needed. Makes me feel like I scored a big win!

~ It’s conventional wisdom to vacuum after you have wiped surfaces. I have this thing, though, about dirty floors. If there is visible debris on the floor, it sort of paralyzes me. So, I have to give it a quick one-minute vacuuming before I proceed.

~ With little ones, I know it can get tricky. I used to clean the bathroom while watching mine in the tub. I gave them bowls of beans or rice to stir when I worked in the kitchen…age appropriate of course. Safety first. If they’re older, get them involved. Sure, it might slow you down a bit. But it may actually motivate you somewhat to have the help, and they will learn so much by working alongside an adult.

~ Use five or ten minute chunks of time that you have during the day to slowly pick away at the mess until is more manageable. You will see the progress and hopefully be encouraged by what you have done so far.

Finally, if you are in that place where you really need another person to help with cleaning, I get that too.

Don’t be afraid to ask available friends or family if you have that option. Or hire someone if you can work it into the budget. It can save physical and mental energy in the end and can definitely be worth it.

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17 Fast & Easy No-Recipe Dinner Ideas

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These no-recipe meals are simple, family friendly, and many can easily be made vegan, gluten-free, or low-carb!

So, whether you are looking for dinner ideas for your weekly meal plan, or you’re wondering what to cook for dinner tonight, there is something on this list for everyone!

fast & simple dinner ideas, chicken pieces with cheese on top

No-recipe dinners are those go-to meals that don’t require a cookbook or a google search. They are simple, time-saving meals that are infinitely better (and healthier) than take-out. But they don’t require a ton of thought or exotic ingredients.

And they are perfect for busy families on busy weekends. Or on those weeknights when everything seems to be happening at once.

I like to keep most of our family meals simple, frugal, and healthy. And mostly homemade, whenever possible. These yummy, no-recipe required dinner ideas check all the boxes!

What are some of YOUR go-to no-recipe dinner ideas? I would love it if you would share your favorites in the comments when you reach the bottom of this post.

(This post may include affiliate links. You can read my full disclosure policy HERE.)

1) Cheesy Baked Chicken Marinara

chicken breasts with melted cheese on top, salad, on white plate

Take baked chicken breast up a notch by topping it with marinara sauce prior to cooking. You get SERIOUS bonus points here if you pound the chicken ahead of time (I use this tenderizer) to make it yummy and tender.

Top with shredded cheese and grated parmesan for the last few minutes of baking time. This is a family fave!

Sides: salad, roasted or steamed garlicky green beans

For even more simple dinner ideas and a printable list, see: 100+ Simple Family Meals To Make For Dinner

2) Oven Nachos

tortilla chips with topping on large baking sheet

Oven nachos are simply tortilla chips topped with pre-cooked meats (we like beef or chicken), shredded cheese, salsa or whatever topping you prefer.

Nachos can be baked on a large cookie sheet at 350° until the cheese is bubbly (just a few minutes!) and then served with sour cream or guacamole on the side. 

Sides: salad, baked beans

3) Chicken and Bacon Ranch Wraps

bacon ranch wraps on cutting board

This is a super easy meal with chicken you have already cooked and pre-shredded. Just take soft tortillas or wraps, top with the chicken, cooked bacon, cheese and preferred toppings.

Warm a bunch at one time on a large baking sheet in the oven, or serve cold. Top with ranch dressing or salsa.

Roll ‘em up and enjoy!

Sides: applesauce, steamed broccoli

4) Taco Salad

Taco salad is another fast (and fun!) dinner that covers all the major food groups and can be customized to everyone’s individual tastes. Ingredients are simple and can be prepared ahead of time.

We have used ground beef, ground turkey, and shredded chicken and like them all. But, you could easily do this on a “meatless” night as a vegan dish.

Simplify this dish EVEN MORE by purchasing already prepared guacamole and shredded lettuce, tortilla strips, diced veggies… for nights when you really need dinner to be quick and easy.

Sides: refried beans

5) Olive Oil Pasta with Roasted Veggies

pasta with roasted veggies and olive oil dinner on plate

This simple dish is made by tossing cooked pasta (we like this one for a gluten-free option) with olive oil and fresh herbs or Italian seasoning.

Add salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese to taste (this seasoning is a yummy dairy free alternative).

Top seasoned pasta with the roasted veggies and serve up using tongs (the veggies will naturally sort of mix in with the pasta).

This dish is super yummy with oven roasted zucchini and tomatoes, but we have enjoyed it with broccoli or mixed frozen veggies as well. 

6) Loaded Baked Potatoes

baked potato with broccoli and cheese on plate with fork dinner

Scrumptious baked potatoes filled with melty cheese, crispy bacon, sour  cream, butter, chives? Yes, please! 

Or go vegan with all veggie toppings. Broccoli is a favorite here!

Whatever toppings you choose, loaded baked potatoes are always a hit.  And, they can be customized to your liking!

I like the convenience of cooking my potatoes in my Instant Pot. But, they can be roasted in the oven, slow-cooked in your Crock-Pot, or even steamed in the microwave.

TIP: We also enjoy this variation on baked potatoes: Peel and cut chunks of white or golden potatoes and steam them in the Instant Pot. They can be plated right from the Instant Pot and everyone can top them the way they like.

7) Spaghetti Marinara

Combine cooked pasta with a jar or two of your favorite marinara sauce. And, BOOM! Dinner is served.

Want to make this meal a little more exciting?

Here are a few TIPS to fancy up that saucy pasta and give it some pizazz:

  • Add ground meat (beef, turkey).
  • Put the cooked pasta in a casserole dish. Top with sauce and cheese. Then bake in the oven until the cheese is melty. Baked Spaghetti!
  • Add roasted zucchini, sauteed spinach, or other favorite veggies.
  • Served topped with slices of grilled or roasted chicken.
  • Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese.

8) Quesadillas 

quesadillas on white plate with sauces on side

Quesadillas for dinner are definitely a fave here! They are so fast and simple to make, especially if you use pre-made tortillas.

You can make delicious quesadillas by topping soft flour tortillas with cooked chicken or beef, shredded cheese, and other fillings. Warm on skillet until the cheese is melty. Using a spatula, fold the tortilla over and to make a half-circle.

Next, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and slice into triangles of yummy gooey goodness.

Serve warm quesadillas with sour cream and/or salsa.

TIP: For a faster, and less labor-intensive way to cook multiple quesadillas, place soft tortillas on a large baking sheet. Top tortillas with your fillings, and place in a 375°F oven until they are just starting to get warm.

Add another tortilla on top of the warm fillings, and return the baking sheet to the oven.

Remove from the oven when the quesadilla is warmed through and the tortillas are just slightly browned.

9) Tortilla Pizza

Or English muffin pizza, or bagel pizza… either way, they’re so fun and easy! French bread pizza is another option.

But, we especially like the way flour tortillas get super crispy and crackery around the edges when they are baked.

Top your tortillas with marinara, pizza sauce, or pesto. Then sprinkle shredded cheese, veggies, whatever you love!

Bake on a parchment or Silpat lined baking sheet in a 375°f oven until the cheese is melty and the tortillas are beginning to brown around the edges.

TIP: Assemble these ahead of time and store in the fridge or freezer for a fast meal or snack on a busy day! Just take them out and pop them in the oven when you’re ready.

10) Pulled BBQ Sandwiches

bbq sandwiches on white plate on red and white table dinner

Another easy favorite around here is barbecue made from chicken, pork, or other meats that have been cooked in the Instant Pot.

You can shred or chop the cooked meat by hand. Or, you can do what I do and place medium sized chunks of meat, along with bbq sauce, in your food processor. Give it a few pulses until it reaches the texture that you’re going for.

The meat and sauce get mixed up nicely with the food processor method, and you can achieve a “minced” texture this way. But if you like larger pieces, just give it fewer whirs around in the food processor.

11) Tuna or Salmon Salad Melts

tuna melt with cheese on plate dinner

Top your favorite bread with tuna or salmon salad and cheese (cheddar or pepper jack are good). Bake in a 350 degree oven until the cheese is melty.

We think these are best when made with English muffins, but you can do them with hamburger buns, pitas, or whatever bread you have available.

Leave them open face, and serve with chips, veggie sticks or sliced apples for a fast, yummy meal.

TIP: For a low-carb option, put your tuna or salmon salad directly on a plate and melt the cheese over it without using bread. Yum!

12) Scrambled Eggs, Bacon or Sausage, and Toast

#1 on my husband’s list for a satisfying meal would be this “breakfast for dinner” combo. Serve with fresh or canned fruit on the side to make this simple dinner something that the whole family enjoys!

TIP: Go meatless! And simplify this meal idea even more by making open-faced scrambled egg melts.

13) Egg Fried Rice

fried rice with vegetables and egg on white plate, easy dinner

This is the simplest, albeit nontraditional, way of making fried rice super fast!

I start this dish by sauteing mixed frozen veggies in a wok or skillet with a little oil until they start to soften. Next, I crack three or four eggs into the veggies and stir while on medium heat until the eggs are cooked and sort of “scrambled” throughout the veggies.

Then, the veggie and egg mixture gets tossed with cooked rice, coconut aminos and/or soy sauce, a little garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.

Egg rice also makes a great side dish!

14) Buttered Noodles with Steamed Broccoli

noodles and broccoli in white bowl on grey wood plank table

Buttered noodles seem to always be a hit with little kids, but big kids love them too!

And, it’s one of the easiest “no-recipe” meals to make!

We like to add a splash of lemon juice, garlic (fresh or powder), and parsley to ours. Top with or serve beside steamed broccoli, carrots, or whatever veggies you love.

You can also add sliced grilled chicken on top for added protein. Delish!

15) Tacos

Tacos need no introduction. They’re a win. Every time! 

And, since the ingredients can be prepared ahead of time, they can be a fast and simple meal when you don’t have a ton of time to get dinner on the table.

TIP: Instant Pot Chicken is PERFECT for tacos. Batch cook it ahead of time and keep it in the freezer for quick prep on taco night! The same goes for ground beef or turkey.

WARNING: This is NOT a low-carb friendly tip. But, you can really stretch your “taco dollar” by adding rice and/or beans to the meat filling.

My family actually thinks they are yummier this way. And, it allows me to use half the meat than I normally would!

Win! Win!

16) Baked Cod with Lemon Butter

Cod is a versatile fish that lends itself to many different flavors and seasonings. But, lemon butter cod is so simple and delicious. And it’s a great place to start if you aren’t experienced with cooking fish.

Arrange cod fillets in a large glass casserole dish or baking sheet. Pour melted butter and lemon juice over the fillets.

Sprinkle salt and pepper to your liking. You can also add garlic powder or other seasonings that you enjoy.

Bake at 375°F until the internal temperature of the fish reaches 145°F, or until thickest part of the filet is white and flaky and no longer translucent.

We like to serve asparagus and gluten-free cornbread with our fish dinner.

TIP: Always buy the freshest fish available. Same day caught or flash frozen is best.

TIP 2: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy clean-up.

17) Rice Bowls

bowls with chicken and veggies on white plank table dinner

Rice bowls can be made a zillion different ways. Basically, the idea is to add your favorite cooked veggies and meats to a generous bowl of cooked rice.

I always cook my rice in the Instant Pot. It just comes out perfect every time and I don’t have to babysit it on the stove top

Jasmine rice is my family’s favorite for the taste, texture, and fast cooking time.

Rice Bowl Add-in Ideas:

  • Cooked Broccoli
  • Instant Pot Chicken
  • Ground Beef or Turkey
  • Cooked Onions or Peppers
  • Wilted Greens
  • Mixed Frozen Veggies
  • Seasoned Steak Bites
  • Pineapple and Cashews
  • Cooked Egg
  • Avocado
  • Beans & Corn

TIP: Use quinoa in place of rice for a higher protein dish.

I would love it if you would share YOUR favorite no-recipe required meals in the comments below!

Don’t forget to add these no-recipe dinner ideas to your master list for faster meal prep and planning! Find your free meal master list printable here: How To Make Meal Planning Easy With A Dinner Master List

Looking for more simple dinner ideas? I gotcha covered! 100+ Simple Family Meals To Make For Dinner

cheesy chicken with red sauce on plate, easy dinner
meal plan master list tips

100+ Simple Family Meals To Make For Dinner

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Having a list of your family’s favorite go-to dinners can save time and money when it comes to meal planning. Check out our list of 100+ simple dinner ideas that you can make tonight!

chicken on lettuce, dinner ideas

(This post may include affiliate links. You can read my full disclosure policy HERE.)

If you have ever tried meal planning, then you know that it can save money and time, as well as your sanity. And nothing makes meal planning faster and easier than having a go-to list of family-friendly meals on hand.

But, even if you don’t meal plan, having a list like this one can be a life-saver when mealtime is approaching and you’re not sure what to fix. It helps you to answer that question that seems to be burning in every family member’s mind, “What’s for dinner?”

I like to keep side dishes really simple, like steamed or roasted veggies with butter or Instant Pot rice. I’ve included some of our favorites down below for inspiration.

Here’s a glimpse of the list I use to make meal planning faster and less stressful. Print it out to have on hand when you want some dinner time inspiration!

Click here for the PRINTABLE list.

quesadilla on white plate, simple family dinner

SIMPLE DINNERS

  • Oven Nachos (sour cream, salad)
  • Stir Fry Veggies
  • Cheese Quesadillas (plain or stuffed with meat and veggies)
  • Veggie Fried Rice
  • Turkey Burger Sliders (sweet potato fries)
  • Chicken Salad Melts
  • Rice Bowls
  • Cheesy Chicken Mac and Cheese
  • Turkey Meatballs (buttered noodles, roasted asparagus)
  • White or Sweet Baked Potatoes with Toppings

* Having a “Leftovers Night” is a good plan for using up what is already cooked in the fridge. Don’t have enough leftovers for everyone? Supplement with something from the No-Prep List or fix a quick side-dish to fill the gap.

CHICKEN DINNER IDEAS

  • Cheesy Chicken Marinara (steamed broccoli, salad)
  • Homemade Chicken Strips/Nuggets (applesauce, mixed veggies)
  • Chicken Fajitas (soft tortillas, sweet corn)
  • Bacon Ranch Wraps w/Shredded Chicken
  • Pulled Chicken BBQ (fried, roasted carrots)
  • Chicken Fried Rice
  • Chicken Tacos (refried beans, veggie rice)
  • Roasted Chicken (carrots, potatoes)
  • Chicken and Dumplings
  • Lemon Butter Chicken Breasts (garlicky green beans, roasted carrots)
  • Chicken Quesadillas
  • Chicken, Broccoli & Rice Casserole
  • Veggie & Chicken Stir Fry (rice or noodles)
  • Chicken Pot Pie

* Chicken Tip: Chicken thighs are less expensive and can be used along with or instead of chicken breasts to save money. Whole chickens cost the least per pound and feed quite a few people. And the best part is you can use the bones to make your own broth for soups.

burger sliders on plate, 100 simple dinners

GROUND BEEF DINNER IDEAS

  • Meatloaf (Instant Pot potatoes, buttered peas)
  • Cheesy Beef Stuffed Shells
  • Meatballs
  • Oven-Baked Nachos
  • Hamburger Stroganoff (peas)
  • Tacos
  • Burgers (with or w/out bun)
  • Sloppy Joes (fries, fruit)
  • Patty Melts (sweet potato fries)
  • Chili (cornbread)
  • Beef Lettuce Wraps
  • Stuffed Peppers

* Making Meat Stretch: Ground beef seems to be the new “steak dinner”. Cost-wise, anyway. But, you can make it go further by other foods to a dish or meal. For example, stir rice and/or beans into cooked ground meat to top nachos or tacos. Add riced veggies to meatloaf, sauces, soups, etc.

FISH & SEAFOOD DINNER IDEAS

  • Baked Cod w/Lemon Butter (roasted potatoes)
  • Fish Tacos
  • Salmon Burgers
  • Tuna Casserole
  • Fish Sticks (homemade are so good!)
  • Steamed Shrimp
  • Shrimp Fried Rice
  • Garlic Butter Shrimp w/Noodles

* When purchasing fish, be sure to buy the freshest available, as seafood spoils quickly. Same-day caught or frozen is best.

baked lasagna with cheese in casserole dish

PASTA DINNERS

  • Fettuccine Alfredo (with or w/out meat)
  • Mac and Cheese
  • Spaghetti w/Meat Sauce
  • Cheesy Beef and Mac
  • Baked Ziti
  • Lasagna
  • Pasta Salad
  • Stuffed Shells
  • Asian Noodles (add chicken, veggies, etc.)
  • Chicken Noodle Bake (broccoli)
  • Stroganoff (beef, chicken or turkey are all good)
  • Pad Thai Noodles (with or w/out meat)
  • Noodles w/Pesto (cherry tomatoes)

* Make it lower carb by replacing the pasta with vegetable noodles! We love oven-roasted zoodles made with this spiralizer.

PIN for later:

pasta on plate, easy dinner ideas

SOUPS AND STEWS

  • Chicken Noodle Soup
  • Beef and Noodle Soup
  • Butternut Squash Soup
  • Chicken and Rice Soup
  • Potato Soup
  • Beef Stew
  • Broccoli Soup
  • Chicken Stew
  • Turkey Meatball Soup
  • Cheeseburger Soup
  • Tomato Soup
  • Bean Soup
  • Vegetable Soup
  • Cabbage Soup

* Having a big pot of soup in the fridge can provide fast and healthy meals during the week. I LOVE making soup in my Instant Pot! I can throw everything in there and let it go without worrying about it bubbling over. And it’s perfectly done in no time!

BREAKFAST FOR DINNER

  • Breakfast Egg Casserole (English muffins, fruit)
  • Egg & Cheese Quesadillas
  • Cheesy Scrambled Eggs (roasted potatoes, toast)
  • Blueberry Pancakes (honey-sweetened Greek yogurt)
  • Frittata (sausage, fruit)
  • French Toast Casserole (cooked apples, bacon)
  • Baked Oatmeal (fruit, nuts, yogurt)
  • Blueberry Muffins (scrambled eggs, bacon)
  • Waffles (maple syrup, blueberry sauce, walnuts)
  • Fruit-filled Crepes (blueberry is a fave!)
  • Egg, Sausage, Potato Scramble (fruit)

* Breakfast foods can be a fun way to shake up your dinner routine. We always have eggs on hand and I try to keep bacon in the freezer. A scrambled eggs, bacon, toast dinner can be pulled together super fast and my family thinks it’s a real treat!

** Print the entire expanded dinner idea list HERE!

INSTANT POT DINNERS

  • Beef Tips with Gravy
  • Teriyaki Chicken
  • Whole Chicken
  • Pot Roast with Potatoes
  • Soups and Stews
  • Beef and Broccoli
  • Orange Chicken
  • Pork Roast (cheesy potatoes, peas)
  • Instant Pot Spaghetti
  • “Boiled” Eggs (cheese toast, carrot sticks)

* Meal Prep Tip: Make rice in your Instant Pot to have on hand during the week. Cooked rice keeps several days in the refrigerator or you can freeze it in Ziploc bags for convenience.

CROCKPOT DINNER IDEAS

  • Pot Roast (carrots, potatoes)
  • Pulled Pork BBQ (slaw, baked beans)
  • Chicken with Rice (mixed veggies, pineapple)
  • Shredded Chicken Tacos (refried beans, salad)
  • Beef Stew
  • Chicken and Rice Soup
  • Meatloaf (peas, buttered potatoes)
  • Smothered Pork Chops (roasted broccoli, applesauce)
  • Slow Cooker “Baked” Potatoes

** I love the amazing magic that happens between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. when I put completely frozen food in my CrockPot and it turns into a delicious meal by dinnertime And most anything that can be made in a slow cooker can also be cooked in an Instant Pot.

chicken kebabs with vegetables, simple dinners

GRILLED DINNERS

  • Grilled Chicken (grilled zucchini, baked potatoes)
  • Steak (sweet potatoes, asparagus)
  • Kebabs (rice, flatbread)
  • Turkey or Beef Burgers
  • Pork Chops
  • BBQ Ribs
  • Sausage and Peppers
  • Uncured Turkey Hot Dogs (no bun for low-carb)

* Grilling Tip: Give a smoky, more authentic “barbecue” flavor to meats that you’ve cooked indoors by reheating them on your grill. Wrap chopped and shredded meats in foil to hold in moisture and flavor while reheating.

SUPER FAST, NO-PREP MEALS

  • Hot Dogs (baked beans, applesauce)
  • Ham and Cheese Open-Faced Sandwiches (sweet potato fries)
  • Grilled Cheese (veggies with dip, apple slices)
  • French Bread, Tortilla or Flatbread Pizzas (salad)
  • Tuna Melts (chips, fruit)

* Other fun things we’ve done for fast and easy meals on movie or game nights are:

  • “snacks for dinner” where we set out fruit, cheese, and popcorn etc.
  • frozen cheese pizza with our own toppings like veggies and leftover ground beef or sausage
  • yogurt, fruit, granola

In the country, we say “what’s for supper?” But, if it’s a little more formal than usual, we’re going to “have dinner.”

Is it “what’s for dinner?” or “what’s for supper” in your family?

What are some of your family’s favorite go-to dinners? Share with us in the comments below!

Print the expanded dinner idea list HERE!

quesadilla with sauce, easy dinner ideas you can make tonight
quesadillas on plate, 100+ family meals to make tonight
meal plan master list tips

12 Productive Things To Do When You’re At Home

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Staying in your house might have you feeling bored, uninspired, or looking for fresh ideas. These practical tips can help you find purposeful and productive things to do at home.

woman on bed with coffee and laptop

At our house, we are constantly adding to a “mental list” of things to fix, do, or try for when we have extra time at home. However, when we actually get that time, no one can seem to remember what those things were to begin with.

So, I’m sharing a few of the activities my family is doing to keep the ball moving forward while we are spending time at home.

This post may include affiliate links. You can read my full disclosure policy HERE.

Sort and Edit Photos

Most of us have tons of photos on our various devices. Now is the PERFECT time for editing and sorting them.

I like to do all of my digital photo editing in PicMonkey because of how simple it is to resize pics and add all sorts of graphics, texts, and effects. And in just a few clicks you can download or share to just about anywhere you like.

I use PicMonkey on mobile AND desktop pc.

Got boxes of actual photos? Pull them out and sort, label, or put them in albums so you can enjoy them!

baby pictures hanging on string

Hang Pictures or Artwork

Use this time to personalize your home by creating a decorative gallery wall or updating family photos in existing frames.

Things to frame and display:

  • family heirlooms
  • family portraits
  • kids’ or your own artwork
  • dried flowers and other natural elements
  • art prints or paintings
  • artistic photographs

I find that Amazon has great prices and selection for picture frames. Some styles come in value packs, which is great if you need a bunch of the same design.

And if you don’t love the thought of putting nails in the wall, these command strips are the thing. Just be sure to get the right ones for the weight of your frames and they will hold perfectly!

Practice a Fitness Routine

We all know that exercise is important for our minds and our bodies. But, if we’re accustomed to organized classes or fancy gym equipment, it can be hard to motivate ourselves to get moving at home.

Thankfully, there are at-home exercise options that are cheap or free. YouTube has tons of free content like walk-in-place routines, arm workouts, pilates, yoga, the list is endless. Yoga with Adrienne is one of our faves!

Other totally free activities include jumping rope, throwing and catching a ball, walking, and house/yard work.

(disclaimer: please check with your own doctor before beginning any exercise routine or using fitness equipment)

PIN FOR LATER:

woman writing, get things done, stay productive at home

Try New Exercise Equipment

My family has REALLY been enjoying this mini-trampoline (rebounder).

Rebounding is supposed to help with building bone mass, burning calories, and lymph drainage among other things, but mostly it is just fun and gives you a great, energizing workout.

A few other things I use on the regular are my yoga mat (this one), yoga block (this one) and these hand weights.

Some other ideas:

  • punching bag (we’re going to try this one)
  • weight bench (ours is too old to link, but you can find a selection here)
  • treadmill (again, mine is no longer available, but you can look here for a great selection and reviews!)
  • yoga ball

Organize Your Closet

I did a full-on KonMari style closet clean out a few years ago. It felt so good to get rid of clothing that wasn’t serving me. But lately I’ve noticed that it’s starting to get crowded in there again.

clothes on hangers,organize closet

So I’ve been going through and pulling out things that I no longer wear, or pieces that make me feel “blah” when I put them on. I’m putting them aside to donate.

At the same time, I’ve moved some seasonal clothing around and reorganized some things to make them more accessible.

Catch Up On Home Maintenance

Keeping up with maintaining our homes is important for our family’s health and safety. And it can help save money.

Start by doing a walk-through, and make a list of things that need attention in your house.

A few suggestions:

  • the dryer – clean the vent hose where it connects to the wall and where it enters the machine using a dryer vent brush to get into the hard to reach spaces. This is supposed to be done yearly. It’s a fire hazard!
  • replace HVAC filters. About every 3-4 months is the recommendation, but we change ours every 2-3. We find these to be the best at filtering without putting a strain on our HVAC system. Be sure to order the size that fits your return.
  • clean refrigerator coils – using a vacuum cleaner and a coil brush (which also doubles as a dryer vent brush). This saves on energy and extends the life of your fridge.
  • check smoke alarms and CO detectors

Do Some Deep Cleaning

Things can get REALLY cruddy when you’re busy and don’t have time to clean them. So when you’re hanging out at home, it’s a good time to catch up on the deep cleaning. Here are some ideas to get you started.

  • ceiling fans
  • baseboards
  • windows and window sills
  • vacuum the air vents
  • under the beds
  • refrigerator
  • high shelves, tops of cabinets

Have a big mess and don’t know where to start? Read: How To Clean a Really Messy House When You Are Overwhelmed By The Mess

paint roller on wall, productive things to do

PAINT SOMETHING

Could the paint in (or on) your house use a freshen-up? If the answer is yes, this could be a very good use of your time at home. Around here there are baseboards and walls to be touched up, two bathrooms that need a complete painting, and a kitchen island that I would love to transform. That’s not even HALF of the list.

DIY CLEANING PRODUCTS

Try making your own home cleaning products. There are tons of recipes online and you might have the ingredients for most of them already. A quick recipe to try for glass cleaner is 1 part white distilled vinegar and 1 part water. It’s easy, non-toxic, and cheap!

DIY LAUNDRY DETERGENT

I was excited to find this laundry detergent recipe from CarolineVencil.com. It saves serious money, is SO EASY to make, and it works great!

meal plan master list tips

MEAL PREP

You will thank yourself when meal time rolls around and half of the work is already done. Cutting up veggies is my favorite do-ahead task and it takes just a few minutes.

Other things you can do to meal prep include browning ground beef, cooking rice ( I do mine in the InstantPot), making dressings and sauces etc.

Try my free meal planning tool here: Simple Master Family Meal List with Printable

woman with mug reading,things to do when bored

Catch Up On Reading

Have a stack of books just waiting to be read? Take some time for yourself and enjoy catching up on them. It’s good for the soul!

And, if you’re looking for some new reads, then you might want to check out Kindle Unlimited for their great selection of e-books. They are constantly adding new titles in fiction, self-help, business etc. With Kindle Unlimited, you will NEVER run out of things to read!

Also, you can check with your local library to see if you can check out e-books and audible books for free! Our local library uses several apps to provide this service and gives instructions on how to access them on their website.

Bonus Idea!

Start a blog! Blogging is incredibly popular and the free resources for HOW to start a blog are unlimited! It is a great way to share your passion with the world and make money while doing it.

The first step is to purchase your own domain and hosting. You can take care of both of these steps at Namehero.com.

I have been with several hosts and have settled on Namehero.com based on the advice of a highly respected tech service provider.

Namehero.com is reasonably priced and has the best customer service that I have experienced with a host, which is really important to me as a non-techy person.

For a FREE course and TONS of up-to-date tutorials on how to start a profitable blog, I recommend that you check out Suzi at startamomblog.com (you don’t have to be a mom to get the benefit of Suzi’s experience and expertise!)

Don’t forget to enjoy your time at home. And, don’t feel like you ALWAYS have to be productive. We all need to wind down and have fun once in awhile.

Also read: 5 Simple Habits for a Cleaner Home

How To Make Meal Planning Easy With A Dinner Master List

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One of the simplest things you can do to save time, money, and your sanity is to have a family meal plan. And the easiest way to do that is to start with a Meal Plan Master List.

A meal plan master list is simply a custom catalog of go-to dinners that (almost) everyone in your family likes.

It only takes a few minutes to make one, (here’s a free printable template to help you get started!) and it saves you tons of time by taking the guesswork out when it actually comes to making your meal plan.

And, if for some reason, you don’t actually get around to making a meal plan for the week, you can use the master list as a reference tool when the question arises; “what’s for dinner?”

(This post may include affiliate links for your convenience. Read my full disclosure policy HERE.)

MAKING YOUR LIST

It is super easy to write your list.  Just grab a pen and paper and start brainstorming all of the meals that your family enjoys on a regular basis.

Where to Find Meal Idea Inspiration:

  • Ask each family member to list their favorites for you. (Each time I do this I learn things I didn’t know about what my kids and husband REALLY like to eat!)
  • Check your favorite cookbooks, blogs, your Pinterest boards…anywhere that you might ordinarily look for recipes or meal ideas.
  • Big kids might like to write out their own list and hand it to you. I tell them that it doesn’t matter how weird or unusual the meal is. If it’s something they’ve enjoyed in the past, they can put it on their list.
  • Look in your freezer and pantry. You might get all sorts of inspiration when you see what’s in there!

With all of the ideas that you brainstormed, you can use the free printable family favorites page to categorize your meals. The sections are pre-labeled for your convenience, so all you have to do is fill it in and keep it somewhere handy.

Or, use your own notebook or journal if that is what works for you. The important thing is getting the list down on paper so you can start using it right away.

PIN FOR LATER:

meal planning free printable, how to make meal list

TIPS FOR USING THE MASTER LIST:

  • Print off several copies and assign each page to a different cooking method: InstantPot, CrockPot, AirFryer etc.
  • Categorize multiple pages for Paleo, Gluten Free, Vegan, Whole30, THM, or any other eating lifestyles that you follow in your home. We have some dietary restrictions in our family so we like to mix it up!
  • Have a separate Master List for new meals that the family hasn’t tried yet for those days when you are feeling adventurous.
  • Change up your Master Lists periodically to take advantage of in-season fruits and vegetables, weather etc. Our Family Favorites Summer Edition has lighter fare and grilled entrees. Whereas, Winter Edition is all about comfort foods!
  • Try making separate master lists for categories like 30 minute meals, simple dinners, pantry and freezer meals, etc.
  • I keep my lists in a clipboard with my meal plan. But you might like to use a binder or maybe even just the kitchen drawer or refrigerator if you are keeping things real simple.

Now you have your own custom master list of meals to help you streamline your meal planning!

Get the FREE printable HERE.

More kitchen tips here: 10 Simple Habits for a Cleaner Kitchen

10 Simple Habits for a Cleaner Kitchen

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While the kitchen is the heart and hub of the home, it can also be the hardest room to maintain. These simple, but practical tips will help you keep your kitchen cleaner and more organized.

tips for clean kitchen,how to keep kitchen clean,flowers on table, pretty teal kitchen,good kitchen habits

When my husband and I were first married and it was just the two of us in our new home, maintaining the kitchen was fairly simple. It was pretty much always clean and uncluttered.

Then we had kids.

And I quickly realized that in a busy household with children, a clean, uncluttered kitchen is as rare as a buy one, get one sale on organic produce.

In fact, I started to dream about how blissful it would be to have my own “Alice”, the iconic loyal and duteous television sitcom housekeeper, to help me in the kitchen.

But, alas. No Alice, nor fairy godmother, nor magical house elf has ever shown up to lend a hand.

And I’m guessing that that hasn’t happened for you either. So I’m going to share some tips to help you keep your kitchen under control. Yes, even without the help of the aforementioned fictional characters.

kitchen with pot on counter, keep kitchen clean

1) GET RID OF THINGS YOU DON’T USE

The fewer “things” you have in your kitchen, the easier it will be to maintain.

Extra serving pieces, mismatched flatware, or the bread machine you purchased right before deciding to go gluten-free. Anything in your kitchen that is not serving you and your family, just let it go.

Even if something was pricey to begin with, if it’s not being used then it’s probably not worth the real estate it inhabits.

Need inspiration? Click here for a free printable KITCHEN DECLUTTER CHECKLIST!

2) HAVE KITCHEN RULES

And make sure that everyone follows them.

Here are a few of ours.

  • If you cook outside of regular meal times, you are responsible for cleaning up.
  • Wipe up spills, crumbs, and other disasters.
  • Use your personal coaster for your water glass during the day. (this helps to eliminate dirty glass demolition derby)
  • If you use a non-dishwasher safe dish, wash it. Yourself. Right away.
modern kitchen black countertop greenery hanging on wall light through window behind sink

3) FOLLOW A DAILY KITCHEN ROUTINE

Dirty dishes pile up crrraaazy fast around here.

By unloading the dishwasher each morning, I have a place to put said dishes as we use them. Then my counters stay clear (somewhat anyway, if I’m being real here) and I can finish loading the dishwasher after dinner.

In the evening, I take care of anything that needs to be hand-washed. I leave those things in a dish rack to dry overnight.

Other tasks, like checking the fridge each morning for “aging” leftovers, wiping the counters after meals, and cleaning the sink every night will help to maintain your kitchen.

4) START WITH A CLEAN KITCHEN

If you’re like me, and you can’t function in a dirty kitchen, this is going to be a no-brainer for you.

If not, then you might relate to my daughter, who can come in right behind a meal, before the clean-up has happened, and whip up a batch of chocolate chip cookies.

By the time she is halfway through, you can’t even tell where one mess stops and the other starts! Drives me a little crazy. (a lot actually)

At that point the mess is so far past manageable that it takes more time and energy to clean everything up.

So, if you want to keep mess to a minimum, start your kitchen endeavors with clear counters and an empty sink. Your later self will thank you.

5) CLEAN AS YOU GO

For some people, this is just another NO-BRAINER.

But not everyone has the intuition to do this (a few members of my own household included), so I’m gonna put it out there.

Just clean up the messes as they happen.

If you wipe the kitchen counter after a spill and wash out the blender right away, you’ll SAVE TIME that you would spend later trying to scrape off the counter or soak, wash, soak, wash, soak, wash…the blender.

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6) CLEAN WHILE YOU WAIT

If your “dawgs are barking” and the sofa is calling your name, by all means take a break. But, while your oven is working it’s magic on that yummy casserole, it’s good to get in there and clean up the mess!

Even if you are in the habit of “cleaning as you go”, there are probably some things in the kitchen that need to your attention. Might as well make smart use of your time and do it while your food is cooking.

Same goes for boiling water, making toast, cooking pasta…Get in the habit of using that time to catch up and keep up.

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7) REDUCE VISUAL CLUTTER

Personally, I would find it a real pain to pull out the coffee maker every time I set it. Or the blender each time I make a smoothie.

So I’m not going to tell you that you should take everything off of your kitchen counters and stow it away.

But appliances, decorative items, and random papers can take up a HUGE chunk of space on your counter top. They reduce your work space, and can make a kitchen look cluttered and uninviting.

If you can find a place for seldom used appliances (the ones that didn’t make it into the donation box) it can REALLY help things visually and can reclaim precious counter space.

Kitchen decor is nice. But too much can diminish the functionality of your kitchen. So, be very selective about what you choose to display. Only set out things that you truly enjoy.

And then there’s the dreaded PAPER CLUTTER. (Raising hand here because…GUILTY!) You have to handle that monster as soon as it comes in the door, if not before. Have a place for what you need to keep, and banish papers from the kitchen. Forever!

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8) DEEP CLEAN SOMETHING EVERY DAY

Each day, I try to give at least one thing in my kitchen a thorough cleaning.

It can be anything. The front of the dishwasher. The toaster oven. Or one of those little thingies from the inside of the refrigerator door.

Other Areas to Deep Clean:

  • dusty appliances
  • areas behind and under dusty appliances
  • toaster oven tray
  • microwave plate/splatter cover
  • around door frame of dishwasher
  • anything in refrigerator
  • oven glass
  • back splash behind sink
  • pantry shelf
  • top of refrigerator

9) “SPOT CLEAN” THE KITCHEN FLOOR

When the kids were little and I was in a hurry to get the house presentable (like when “short notice” company was coming) I would hand them wet cloths and tell them to “spot clean” the kitchen floor.

Cleaning up the visible stuff worked so well at making the entire floor look freshly scrubbed that I eventually incorporated it into my kitchen routine.

Often, by the end of the week, the floor has had so much “spot cleaning” that it doesn’t even need a full on mopping.

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10) SHINE UP YOUR SINK

Hands down one of the best habits I’ve adopted is to clean and shine my sink every day.

Cleaning my sink thoroughly each day not only prevents smelly bacteria and germs from building up, but it also keeps the sink free of clutter and ready to use when it’s needed.

I like to use this twisty brush because it does a really good job of getting down into the drain and crevices. (It is also great for hand washing jars and bottles AND it goes in the dishwasher!) Dish liquid works great for shining the sink. For stubborn messes, I add a sprinkle of this powder. It always gets the job done.

These habits will go a long way to keep your kitchen tidier and more functional in between deep cleanings.

For tips on keeping your entire house under control on the daily, you can check out 5 Simple Habits for a Cleaner Home.

For Meal Planning Ideas: Family Meal Planning Master List & Free Printable

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5 Simple Habits for a Cleaner Home

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Keeping a home comfortably clean can be a challenge. But, it is possible! Use these 5 simple everyday tips to help you keep your house cleaner and more organized, so you can relax more and “emergency clean” less.

You know that panicky feeling you get??

The one when someone drops in, and EVERYTHING in your house is a complete and uttter disaster?!?

The racing pulse. The sweaty palms. And the mad dash to hide the clutter and catch your breath before guests reach the door…

I am WAY too familiar with that harrowing experience.

Some some people can’t relate. For them, keeping a home clean and organized just comes naturally.

But, for the rest of us, it can be a struggle.

We want a cleaner home, but we just don’t always know how to make it happen.

But the good news is, it CAN happen! Trust me! If I can do it, than it is completely, 100% possible for you too.

(This post may include affiliate links. You can read my full disclosure policy HERE.)

So, how CAN you keep your home cleaner on a regular basis without spending all of your time keeping house?

Here are some practical tips that can help.

1) CLEAN UP MESSES AS THEY HAPPEN

Do you ever spot a mess, then walk away and think “I’ll get to that in a minute.”

And three days later, you’ve walked by the same mess so many times that you can’t even see it anymore?

Like that dust bunny that has been on the floor so long the kids have given it a name?

Around here, we seem to have trouble with those hand-wash only kitchen items. No one wants to wash them. So, they just sit, and sit, aaand sit.

And multiply.

Then, I think how much easier it would have been just to wash them right away to begin with. Not only are they harder to clean, but they’ve been cluttering up the counter this whole time.

Then, there are the times I think “well, it’s just a small mess and it can wait.”

But small messes add up to big messes and that adds up to overwhelm.

Try to pick-up, wipe, and clean-up messes as you see them. If you practice it, it will become habit.

Related: 10 Simple Habits for a Cleaner Kitchen

Related: 7 Tips For When You Feel Like a Homemaking Failure

2) GET RID OF STUFF

One way to keep your home cleaner and more organized is simply to have less stuff.

Cluttered spaces never look or feel clean. And too many “things” make it impossible to keep things tidy.

You don’t have to become a minimalist. But, if you have things sitting around that currently serve no purpose, just get them out of the way.

Around here, we purge clothes and shoes, kitchen items and housewares regularly. There is almost always a “thrift store bag” or two by the back door ready for the donation center.

In the past, we had an insane amount of toys and junk everywhere. There was a nearly cataclysmic event that caused us to rethink the whole “more is better” mentality. That is a story for another time.

Just try cleaning out a few things at a time. Lightening your load feels so good.

It will quickly become a habit to re-home things that aren’t serving you and your family.

3) MAKE “SHORT LISTS” OF TASKS

Making a manageable list of housekeeping tasks will help you to keep your home cleaner and more organized.

I find that short lists are easier to tackle than a full-on to-do list. So, it’s more likely that all of the things will get done.

And, our brains tend to thrive on the reward of having finished something.

You can pull tasks from a longer to-do list to make up your short-list, or you can jot things down as you think of them. My list is normally a mixture of both.

I like to these 3″ x 3″ size super sticky notes. You can fit just the right amount of to-do’s on there without it being overwhelming. Plus, the colors make me think of sea glass and tropical island beaches while I’m wiping counters and washing dirty dishes.

For me, getting a few of the next day’s important tasks down on paper the evening before helps to take my mind off of the next day’s to-do’s. Which, in turn, makes it easier to relax and enjoy the evening, rather than worrying about things that need to get done tomorrow.

4) DIVIDE AND CONQUER

You are gathering an armload of towels from the bathroom hamper when you notice that the counter needs to be wiped down.

And the tub. THAT will take awhile. Oh, and you can barely see yourself in the mirror.

“When will I ever find the time to clean that bathroom?” you wonder.

So another day goes by and the grime builds up.

But what if you did ONE of those tasks at a time?

Breaking big jobs into smaller chunks works infinitely better than not getting the job done at all.

Here’s how I break it down for my bathroom:

I do the shower one day ( usually as I am showering.) The counters and sinks another. The toilet gets cleaned randomly several times a week when I have a spare minute.

The tub is actually my least favorite so I do have to schedule that in sometimes so that it gets done. But you get the idea.

If I had to wait for a large enough time block to do the whole thing, it might never get done.

5) START A DAILY ROUTINE

If strict schedules aren’t your thing, I’m with ya!

But, it’s probably fair to say that people with clean houses generally have more routine built into their day than people who have…ahem…less than clean houses.

An evening routine of tidying the kitchen and the living spaces, plus a little prep work, can give you an amazing jump start on the next day.

Have a set of productive tasks that get done early each morning. For me, that includes making my bed, loading the washing machine and unloading the dishwasher. It feels good to get things checked off the list and it helps set the tone for the rest of the day.

Author James Clear writes in his book, Atomic Habits, “We often dismiss small changes because they don’t seem to matter very much in the moment.“

So, don’t underestimate the impact that these “small changes” and new daily habits can have on your home.

What habits or small changes have you made that have had a positive impact on your home?

Read also: 5 Tips for More Order and Less Chaos In Your Home

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5 Things That Have Changed My Life as a Homemaker

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Keeping up with cleaning, organizing, and running a home can be a challenge. These five practical tips will help you to be less stressed, better organized and more productive as a mom and homemaker.

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Homemaking used to be a constant struggle…

Clutter, dishes piling up, not being prepared to fix dinner…these things caused me stress and anxiety.

How could I be a LITTLE MORE organized? Or keep the house clean (presentable, at least)?

And was it EVEN POSSIBLE to get a decent meal on the table, on time, (almost) every night?

Well, with patience, perseverance, and a lot of prayer, I have found strategies that have helped me in ALL of these areas.

Without them, I would probably still be stuck in that sorry pit of despair. (and uncontrollable messes!)

(This post may include affiliate links for your convenience. Read my full disclosure policy HERE.)

1. FIND A ROUTINE THAT WORKS FOR YOU

If a strict schedule doesn’t work for you (raises hand here), try a “routine” instead.

Because routines are flexible, you can easily shift gears if the day doesn’t go as planned. And things often don’t go as planned.

Simply start by making a list of the top priority tasks that need to happen for the day. Include meals, feeding pets, tidying, work at home, etc.

Next, arrange the tasks in the order that they should occur. For some of us, this is enough to keep us on track. If you are working towards a more structured schedule, this is a great place to start!

Having this written “framework” for your day can alleviate the anxiety that happens when you don’t know what to do next.

One thing that helped us A TON was to put a whiteboard in a central area of our home for listing out chores and appointments. This lets everyone knows what is going on and makes is easier for them to get on board.

A whiteboard is also great for quotes, affirmations, and Bible verses to encourage yourself or your family during the day.

Obviously, routines take time to figure out, so be patient with yourself and others as you establish what works.

I promise you. It’s worth the effort and will help to bring peace and calm to your home.

(For more inspiration, visit 7 Encouragements For Struggling Homemakers)

2. PLAN YOUR MEALS

Meal planning used to really intimidate me.

It felt restrictive. Like I could ONLY COOK what was on the list each day.

But I’m going to let you in on a little secret:

A meal plan does not have to be written in stone to work MIRACLES!

In fact, I often change up our meal plan. But having it in writing reminds me that dinner needs to happen each day. And that works for me.

A super simple way is to start by writing down four or five meals that you want to serve for the week. (I like to check my freezer and pantry first, then make a list of what I need to pick up at the store to complete each meal.)

You can make reminders on your meal plan page (aka notebook paper, back of junk mail, etc.) to take things out of the freezer, or to set your Crockpot or Instant Pot on time. I can easily forget if I don’t have those things written down.

Most of my meals center around the Crockpot or Instant Pot because these are appliances that I can set and forget while they do all the work for me.

Breakfast and lunch are normally ffy (fend for yourself) since my kids are older. And I rarely plan out weekend meals as we often do easy things like pizza or oven nachos if we are home.

If we have perishables or leftovers in the fridge that need to be eaten over the weekend, I will make note of those on the meal plan page so everyone knows what is available. Because refrigerator blindness is a real thing y’all.

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3. CLEAN ON THE FLY

I used to think that if I didn’t have time to complete a task to absolute perfection, there was no point in starting it. Honestly, I wouldn’t even wipe the bathroom counter if I didn’t have time to clean the whole bathroom.

Crazy, I know, but that’s how it was. When I figured out that this mindset wasn’t serving me, I adopted a more “cleaning on the fly” strategy.

In our home, cleaning and picking up on the fly means basically just taking care of something when you notice that it needs attention. This can be especially strategic when you don’t have large amounts of time to block out for house cleaning.

For instance, I rarely have to schedule time for cleaning the shower. Once a week, I take microfiber cloths in the shower with me and give it a good cleaning before I get out. DONE!

A few of times a week I clean the toilet right before I get in the shower. Same with the bathroom counter… I just wipe it down as it needs it during the week. It only takes a minute and then it’s done.

You can use this strategy in other areas of your home. It can be a little bit challenging for messies at first. We tend to look beyond the mess in front of us, especially if we have programmed ourselves that way in order to deal with things that are beyond our control.

It helps for me to put sticky notes around to remind myself of tasks until they become habit.

The Chaos Cure  and Sink Reflections, both by Marla Cilley a.k.a. “The FlyLady”, are easy reads that contain tons of helpful ideas for getting and keeping things clean and organized. She discusses a similar method of keeping things clean.

Marla is also a messy by nature, and I can relate to her practical advice. Her books have been helpful and encouraging for me.

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4. DISCOVER YOUR PERSONALITY TYPE

Learning more about yourself and what makes you (and others) tick is truly LIFE CHANGING in so many ways.

In my life, discovering my personality type has helped me to understand why certain organizational skills elude me. It has helped me to know what approaches will work when it comes to completing tasks and why I was never successful at using planners and schedules designed by other people.

Also, now I know that it’s normal for people with my personality to be overwhelmed by huge to-do lists. And I know what I can do instead.

And the BIG BONUS in studying personalities has been learning to relate to my children AND my husband on a level that I never thought was possible. So things are more peaceable on the home front. And more peace is always welcome in our home!

In fact, my whole family has gotten involved in personality discovery and the impact on our relationships with one another has been amazing!

If you have never taken a personality quiz before, or if it has been awhile (especially if it was high school or college), I would highly recommend it.

You can take this one free at 16personalities.com . Personality tests aren’t always completely accurate, so it’s a good idea to do a little reading, either online or with a good book, to make sure that you have landed on the right one.

This book, Type Talk: The 16 Personality Types That Determine How we Live, Love, and Work, is a wonderful read and will give you a better understanding of yourself and what makes you tick.

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5. MAKE SLEEP A PRIORITY

The house is finally still. Even the dog is quietly tucked away. You push “start” on the dishwasher and head to the bedroom where you hesitate before entering.

And, that’s when you hear it…the telltale sound. Either husband is watching Ford vs Ferrari or he is seriously asleep!

You contemplate catching up on cleaning. Starting a DIY project. Shaving your legs. The possibilities are endless!

I think many of us can relate to sacrificing sleep for things like housework, business, or quiet time.

I have certainly done my share of it. There’s just something so lovely about that late night solitude , when everyone else is asleep.

Admittedly, it was hard giving that coveted time to myself in the late night and into the early morning hours, but there are bigger payoffs.

Since changing my sleep schedule and getting to bed at a decent time, I feel better during the day. At night I am tired and fall asleep more easily.

Consequently, I get so much more done, as those morning hours are when I have the most energy.

Best of all, my husband and I are way more connected because we are sharing a similar schedule.

As far as quiet time, I am able to enjoy some solitude in the morning, before everyone else is up for the day.

What habits have you adopted that are crucial for keeping the stress and chaos to a minimum at your house?

Need a boost? Read: 7 Encouragements For When You Are Struggling as a Homemaker

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