I have thrown down the gauntlet....

....and issued myself a challenge.

Do not go to the grocery or eat out until we leave for vacation in 11 days. The only exception I think I will make is to allow myself to buy a loaf of bread.

We are "out" of our lean on go to easy foods, but our cupboards are full. The new-to-me garage freezer is well stocked. The inside freezer, while no longer spilling onto the floor when I open it, is equally well stocked.

WE NEED TO EAT WHAT WE HAVE.

We will see. Friday - Sunday won't really count because I will eat every meal at our Convention. I have several frozen meals both here and at the office for lunches. Fresh fruit - pretty much gone, but I have lots of cans. We have 7 eggs left, 2 slices of bread (and no other bread-like items, thus the exception), a full gallon of milk and tons of other things taking up room that we never eat.

The challenge is partially inspired by the bulging cabinets; partially inspired by my realization with my finances - paying for preschool, prepaid college tuition, and the decision to move Jax to a new (and more expensive) daycare home when school starts - the monthly budget is about to take a HUGE hit. We need to begin to live more frugally.

Plus, Jackson thinks breakfast of his choice should be on demand. Nope. Not anymore. You can eat what we have. And like it. It worked this AM. We will see.

Tonight I mixed the left over meatloaf and carrots from last night with rotini and Raghu, toasted up two of the last 4 slices of bread, slapped on some country crock and garlic powder, and we feasted!

LisaK would be appalled (and my mom would be proud), but that is okay. This is Central Illinois - where meat, potatoes and canned fruit and veggies rule! Wish me luck.