Recipes and all things domestic-ish: November 2008

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Thomas The Train - bargain shopping

I am new to the Thomas the Train world and am going to start buying for Christmas. My step-mom gave my a great hint: Michael's Crafts, AC Moore and maybe some of the other rag shop type crafty place carry them. And each week in the newspaper they usually have a 40% or 50% off of one item coupon. I have two of the 40% off coupons for Michael's and plan on buying a starter kit and who knows what else...its not a bad way to pick them up here and there on the cheaper side. And for the locals - there is a Michaels next to Target in Ocean.
Happy shopping!

Monday, November 3, 2008

Simply Dish/Studio Gourmet

Do you ever feel exhausted by the end of the day - from being at home all day with the kid(s) or from a long day at work? And the last thing you want to think about is prepare dinner?

I like to cook/make recipes, but some days I don't have the time to get to the grocery store or prepare a gourmet meal.

There are a couple places I have found through friends that I have been to several times that help solve the "what's for dinner?" dilemma...

Simply Dish located in Wall, NJ and Studio Gourmet located in Yardville, PA can help!

http://www.simplydish.biz/

http://www.studiogourmet.com/

There are three ways you can prepare your meals -

1. You can put your apron on, come on into the store and prepare your meals from the menu of the month. (Each month offers different menu options.)

2. You can order ahead from the menu of the month and have the meals prepared for you at an additional cost. All you have to do is pick the meals up.

3. You can book your own private party for a group of friends. Bring your favorite bottle of wine and some snacks, get together to catch up and prepare your meals at the same time. (This is what I usually do.)

Depending on the size of your family you can prepare anywhere from 4-12 meals (each meal serves 4-6 people). Prices vary/meal depending on the place you choose to go.

I usually split some of the meals up into smaller portions so that I get an extra dinner for my family out of each prepared meal.

I have been to both places and have liked each one. I have not been disappointed with the meals! And each prepared meal can be frozen. There are instructions on how to thaw and cook the meals when the time comes.

So, the next time you find yourself looking in the fridge wondering "what's for dinner"? you have a solution!

Enjoy!