As if all weeks aren’t busy weeks…
But some weeks are busier than others.
Like the week our oldest son got married. We had to juggle in all of our normal daily chores (caring for kids, changing diapers, doing laundry, working for a living, silly things like that). Plus we had company trickling in and all the last-minute wedding prep.
There were a lot of people and we went through a lot of food. Here’s how I managed our kitchen…
What To Buy at the Store to Get Through a Busy Week
Here’s what worked for me and what always works for me when our week is extra busy:
1. I bought a lot of fruit.
When there are a lot of people to feed and not there is not much time for cooking or baking, stock your house with fruit. Make it easy to see and easy to grab. These will be your busy-week snacks. Here’s what I bought for our wedding week:
- Bananas
- Apples
- Clementines
- Watermelon
- Strawberries
- Grapes
- Blueberries
- Pears
- Applesauce Squeezies
- 100% Fruit Cups
I left fresh fruit in bowls on two different countertops. There was an additional bowl full of applesauce squeezies and fruit cups. People helped themselves all day long for snacks and for something to go along with their meals. We pulled out big bowls of cut watermelon and sliced strawberries for lunch and dinner side dishes. It was easy and tasty and crowd-pleasing!
2. I bought a variety of bagels and cream cheese.
This made breakfast feel special without any effort on my part. Everyone could pick their favorite (I bought cinnamon, blueberry, and plain). They could toast them and add cream cheese or butter. And hey, they could eat them with fruit. :)
Remember when I used to make Homemade Bagels?! :)
3. I bought a lot of boneless chicken thighs.
They are inexpensive (usually $3/pound or less). You can marinate them in whatever sauce or dressing you like. You can grill them, smoke them, or bake them. They are always a hit.
4. I bought hoagie buns, lunch meats, and cheeses.
This way, people could make sandwiches the way they liked, but “making subs” felt more special than making a plain ol’ sandwich.
5. I bought baby carrots and cheese sticks.
Again, for snacks. Or to go with meals. They are easy to grab and take no prep. Petite baby carrots are our fav!
6. I bought ice cream.
Because of the company. And because it’s fun. And because I wanted some.
7. I bought high-quality hotdogs, burger patties, and buns.
Grilling burgers and dogs is such a great way to feed extras and the meal always comes together fast. Most people love this meal so it’s easy to feed kids and adults this way.
8. I bought frozen vegetables.
I always buy these. But it is especially nice to have frozen green beans, peas, and corn in the freezer to supplement our meals.
9. I bought pizza fixings.
I set out all the toppings and people built their own. Easy and fun for all!
- Pizza crust
- Pizza sauce
- Mushrooms
- Olives
- Cheese
- Pepperoni
- Sweet peppers
10. I bought cereal.
If all else fails, people could grab a bowl of cereal for themselves or for a little one. We went through several boxes during wedding week and it saved us from several meltdowns!
What are your favorite foods to have on hand during busy weeks?
Lora T says
This sounds like my groceries week! Thank you for the thoughtful post.
Bethany Lotulelei says
Thank you for reading, Lora!
-Bethany (Laura’s assistant)