So, here we are. I'm starting a new chapter in my life, and I'm determined to create an organized, healthy, and easy-to-manage routine for my family—myself, my husband, and my picky eater of a son. We all have our unique needs when it comes to food. Between my son’s selective tastes and food intolerances, my husband’s need to lower his blood pressure, and my own dietary needs with diabetes, anemia, and low vitamin D, I knew I had to approach this in a way that worked for all of us.
One of the first steps to creating that routine? Organizing the kitchen! This means cleaning out the fridge and freezer and getting a clear view of what we already have. Before I can even think about heading to the store for that first big grocery haul, I need to make sure I'm using up what we already have, clearing out expired items, and setting myself up for success.
Step 1: Getting the Fridge and Freezer Ready
Cleaning and Decluttering
I’ll be honest—I’ve been avoiding this. But, this is the first step to getting my kitchen organized, and it’s really not as overwhelming as I thought it would be. I’m going to make this my “starting fresh” moment, so I can be ready for what’s next.
Emptying Everything Out: I took everything out of the fridge and freezer. Yes, everything! I couldn’t believe how much stuff had accumulated—leftovers, bags of frozen veggies, condiments that I forgot about... It’s a good thing I finally did this because it gave me a clear sense of what I have, and what I really need.
Checking Expiration Dates: This part was eye-opening. I found expired sauces, half-used packs of cheese, and veggies I had completely forgotten about. It felt so good to clear all of that out. My fridge feels lighter already.
Wiping It All Down: After taking everything out, I gave my fridge and freezer a good wipe-down. Now everything is fresh and clean, and I can see all of the shelves clearly. (I can’t be the only one who finds forgotten bags of frozen fruit in the back of the freezer, right?)
What’s Left?
Once everything was cleaned and cleared out, I did a quick inventory. What’s left is far more manageable, and it’s easier to think about how I can use what’s on hand.
Frozen Vegetables: I found a stash of frozen peas, carrots, and some mixed veggies. These are perfect for quick meals for me and my husband, and I can sneak them into my son’s meals (without him realizing it!).
Frozen Meats: We had some turkey burgers and chicken breasts. I know I can use these to make simple meals for the whole family.
Pantry Staples: I’ve got a good stock of rice, canned beans, oats, and a few sauces. It’s not much, but it’s enough to build a few meals around while I work on my first grocery list.
Step 2: Using What’s On Hand (Without Overcomplicating It)
I need to make this process as simple as possible. With my son’s picky eating habits and my need to keep things blood-sugar-friendly, I can’t make things too complicated. Here’s my game plan:
Repurposing Leftovers: I’m all about using up leftovers where I can. For example, I can make a turkey burger tonight and save the leftovers for a wrap for lunch tomorrow. Or, I can make a big pot of rice and use it for multiple meals.
Creating Simple, Family-Friendly Meals: My son is very picky when it comes to veggies, and I’ve learned that I have to be sneaky sometimes. He loves pasta and cheese, so I can make a simple veggie-packed macaroni and cheese. I’ll sneak some pureed cauliflower or carrots into the cheese sauce. That way, he gets the nutrients without fussing over the veggies. It's all about finding ways to make it work for him!
Meal Planning Around What We Have: Tonight, I’ll make a stir-fry with the frozen veggies and some rice. Simple, filling, and easy to throw together without needing a ton of ingredients. Tomorrow, I can turn the leftover rice into a veggie bowl with some canned beans and a light dressing. Easy.
Step 3: Preparing for My First Big Grocery Haul
Once I’ve used up what’s left in the fridge and freezer, I’ll start working on my grocery list for the first major haul. But, before I head out, I want to make sure that I’m being strategic about it:
Meal Planning for the Week: I need to create a meal plan that works for all three of us. My husband needs meals to help lower his blood pressure, my son needs simple, picky-eater-friendly options (preferably without too much fuss), and I need to keep my meals diabetic-friendly, as well as accommodate my anemia and vitamin D deficiency.
Using Leftovers Wisely: I’ve realized that buying in bulk and planning to use leftovers for the next day’s lunch or dinner is a game-changer. This will not only save time but also reduce food waste.
Quick & Easy Options for My Son: Since my son loves pasta, yogurt, and cereal, I’ll be sure to stock up on healthier versions of those foods. I can find dairy-free yogurt and make sure the pasta options I get are whole grain. For snacks, I’ll grab some healthier alternatives to his usual choices—like veggie-based chips or hummus with crackers.
Low-Sodium & Heart-Healthy Choices for My Husband: For my husband, I’m focusing on low-sodium options, fresh veggies, lean proteins (like fish and turkey), and whole grains to help with his blood pressure.
Step 4: Sticking to the Plan (and Giving Myself Grace)
The hardest part for me will be sticking to this plan and keeping it simple. I’m a firm believer that planning ahead and being organized can make life easier, but I also know that life happens. I can’t stress about perfection. There will be days when I have to improvise, and that’s okay.
I’m committing to creating routines that will work for our family. This includes making sure the fridge and pantry stay organized, meal prepping when I can, and making meals that are easy and tailored to our unique needs.
And above all, I’m keeping it real. I’m going to give myself grace when things don’t go according to plan, but I’m also going to celebrate the small wins when we use up what we already have and eat a healthy, filling meal together as a family.
Have you had any experiences like this, where you cleaned out your fridge and started fresh? Or maybe you have tips for tackling picky eating while staying on top of your family’s health needs? I’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas in the comments!
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