I find that I obsess over food. I want to get a grip. I’m figuring out that the best way is not to copy what everyone else is doing. Imagine that.

I’ve landed on managing portions, reading labels and choosing ‘grows on a plant’ vs. ‘made in a plant.’ Those are pretty good guidelines. Once again I want to emphasize that it’s a guideline that works for me – about 5 out of 7 days each week. I find that the harder I restrict myself, the more I will begin to resent limitations. I think it’s an innate part of who we are. Kinda fallen but really wanting to get better.

I’ve been following this pattern for about four months and it’s liberating. A couple of pounds found their way off of me. Not dramatic. I’m happy with that. My clothes are comfortable, I have lots of energy and I generally sleep well. A few markers that show I’m headed in the right direction.

I’m also moving away from excessive prep time. I look for recipes that take no more than 30 minutes. Simple but delish recipes. My keeper of recipes has evolved from recipe boxes to 3-ring binders to an app I love call Samsung Food. I can upload my faves and look for something new when I’m feeling inspired.

Here are my food prep favorites that I did not spend a lot on: an Instant Pot, a well-loved KitchenAid stand mixer that I bought from a friend and a Ninja Foodie with dual zone technology. The Ninja I did spend more on – tucked it into the budget under a Father’s Day gift for my husband. Hey! He enjoys what comes out of that appliance every time we use it!!! Plus, I don’t heat up the whole kitchen. Mr. Oven gets a summer reprieve.