Good morning from my kitchen to yours!

Today’s post is all about being real: real food, real grocery struggles, and real ways to take care of yourself and your family—even when the fridge is missing chicken and the grocery bill makes your eyes water.

If you’re like me, you’re doing your best to feed your people well while staying on budget and making food you actually enjoy too. So grab your coffee and let’s chat about how I’m making it all work this week—from easy make-ahead breakfasts to budget-friendly lunch ideas, and what I’m using when the chicken shelves are empty.

When the Grocery Store Lets You Down

Let’s start here, because oh boy—it was one of those grocery trips. You know the kind.

There was no chicken. Like, none. No chicken breasts, no thighs, not even frozen ones. And then, I grabbed a cantaloupe that was supposed to be $3.99—only to find out when I got home I’d been charged $9.89 for a honeydew I didn’t even buy. Plus, I picked out one treat for my kid and was charged for two.

Accidents happen, sure. But in this economy, every little overcharge hurts. Still—I decided to make the best of it, and honestly, it inspired me to stretch my creativity in the kitchen even more.

Chicken Breasts Gone? No Problem.

Since chicken breasts weren’t an option this week, I turned to something we do have: chicken wings. A customer actually shared a fantastic idea—using my Sweet Orange Seasoning on the wings for a bright, sticky twist. Yes, please!

If you’re not part of my Facebook community group, you’re missing all these fun suggestions and ideas we share daily. It’s a great place to be inspired—and to inspire others with your own creative cooking swaps.

And speaking of swaps…

Tofu: The Underrated Budget Hero

Tofu gets a bad rap sometimes, but it’s time we changed that. I picked up a block this week and realized it’s only $10 . That’s four meals! Can u say savings!

I’m testing out a sticky tofu recipe that mimics sticky chicken, and it might just become a new go-to. It’s packed with flavor, easy to cook, and incredibly affordable.

Give tofu a chance—you might surprise yourself!

Breakfast Done Right: Veggies Included

Mornings are so much easier when breakfast is already made. This week, I prepped ahead and it was a total game-changer. One of my biggest goals lately has been adding more vegetables to every meal, even breakfast.

It’s not easy—who wants broccoli at 7:30 a.m.?—but I’ve found some delicious ways to sneak them in. My favorite so far? Carrot pancakes. Lightly sweet, warmly spiced, and packed with shredded carrots—they’re basically a cozy hug for your morning plate.

If you’re not in my community group, that’s where you’ll find the full recipe. Come join us!

Let’s Talk Lunch: Snack Plates, Fish, & Flexibility

Lunch for me needs to be easy, but that doesn’t mean boring. I’m loving snack plates right now—think adult Lunchables but with better nutrition and flavor.

Here’s what I include on mine:

• Boiled eggs for protein
• A scoop of sauerkraut (great for gut health—I’m up to 2-3 times a week!)
• Fancy cheese (yes, I said fancy—blue cheese or anything with a bite. It feels like a treat!)
• Tomatoes and cucumbers, always fresh and easy

No cooking required, tons of variety, and satisfying enough to keep me going all afternoon.

I’m also making a point to include fish in my lunches, since the rest of my family isn’t big on seafood. This week, I’ve got salmon and scallops lined up. I’ll cook them fresh and serve with a crisp salad—no fuss.

Other lunches this week include:

• Fettuccine Alfredo with scallops
• Sole fish rolled with cream cheese and lemon garlic seasoning
• Broccoli and cauliflower sides, either sautéed or steamed
• Cauliflower rice blend I found at the store that includes extra veggies for bonus nutrition

I’m just trying to get in more vegetables and make lunches that feel special without a ton of work. It’s amazing what a little planning does!

Dinner with a Twist: From Scratch Hamburger Helper & Steak Subs

You know what I love? Hamburger Helper. It’s nostalgic, cozy, and kid-approved. But instead of buying the box, I’m showing how to make it from scratch with simple ingredients—and yes, that recipe is in this months newsletter.

(If you’re not on the list yet, be sure to comment or message me so I can get you signed up!)

Later in the week, I’m making steak subs—except I’m using ground beef instead of steak. Why? Because steak is pricey and ground beef still brings the flavor at half the cost. It’s all about finding those smart swaps that stretch your meals and still feel satisfying.

Real Food, Real Life

Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, what matters most is feeding yourself in a way that works for you—your budget, your time, and your family.

This week’s chat reminded me that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Sometimes the chicken is gone. Sometimes the receipt is wrong. But we roll with it—and find ways to make good food anyway.

Want Recipes Like These?

If you’re not already on my email newsletter list, you’re missing out on some great recipes I shared this week, including:

• Homemade Hamburger Helper!

Whether you’re using Epicure spices like I am, or just cooking from scratch with what’s in your cupboard, these recipes will give you inspiration and confidence in your kitchen. Just drop a “YES PLEASE” in the comments and I’ll get it to your inbox!

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

What’s been your biggest win in the kitchen lately?

What’s the most annoying thing that happened on your last grocery run?

Have you ever tried tofu? Would you?

Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to join our community group for recipes, chats, and real-life kitchen encouragement. We’re in this together.

Until next time, keep cooking with love—and a little bit of grit,

Kelly