This post was prepared in partnership with Blue Apron
The last few weeks have been especially hectic at our house. Between writing and launching a book, ongoing home projects, and church commitments, our family has been navigating a particularly busy season. Those intense stretches are common for anyone juggling multiple responsibilities, and if we want to stay sane we need to get better at managing our time and priorities.
I wrote in my new book about how I’ve developed habits to create a more peaceful home and calm the chaos. It’s reassuring to know it’s possible to juggle a lot without feeling overwhelmed all the time. The goal isn’t perfection—nothing is perfect—but rather knowing what to trim so you can focus on what matters most. I’m learning to be intentional about where I invest my time so I can do what I love without dropping too many balls.
One area I try to simplify is meal planning and shopping. We stick to reliable recipes that are quick to prepare and require predictable ingredients. That allows us to shop for mostly fresh produce and quality proteins and keep meals healthy and uncomplicated. Simplifying routines leaves more time for family, which is a priority for me—time is precious and how we spend it matters.
When our schedule gets away from us, we sometimes default to eating out because it’s easier in the moment. If we haven’t planned ahead, dinner becomes an afterthought and someone is inevitably starving and grumpy. My teenage son often announces that no one is making dinner—he can cook for himself, but I value family meals and try to avoid everyone eating separately whenever possible.
Those busy days come regularly, so they shouldn’t catch us off guard. If we treat them like a surprise, we end up grabbing takeout or resorting to the same quick fixes over and over. Years ago I discovered the importance of planning for “in-between” options—meals that are quicker than a full-cook session but more satisfying and nourishing than scrambling at the last minute.
I’d love to always prep food ahead and stay perfectly stocked, but with my schedule that’s not realistic every week. Instead, having easy backup options saves time and money because we eat well at home instead of dining out. Those simple plans prevent the takeout spiral and keep evenings calmer and more connected.
Meal kit services are a useful tool for an in-between plan. Blue Apron delivers fresh, pre-portioned ingredients for chef-designed recipes straight to your door in a refrigerated box. You still cook at home, but the decisions and much of the prep are simplified so you can get to the cooking—and the table—faster.
Everything arrives ready to use, and clear recipe cards guide you step by step. In a short time and with minimal effort you’re sitting down with your family to enjoy a freshly prepared meal. I also love trying new recipes; the service often introduces dinners I wouldn’t have made on my own but end up loving.
Ordering just one meal a week can be the perfect backup for your busiest day. It gives you a planned option so you don’t have to decide at dinnertime or run to a restaurant. Blue Apron offers two-person and family plans, and most meals take under 40 minutes to prepare, making it an easy way to add variety and convenience to your week.
Best of all, it gives you a break. Blue Apron nights can become something to look forward to—an easy, enjoyable evening when you can relax and savor a home-cooked meal without the usual planning stress.
Want to try it for yourself?
- The first 50 readers to sign up will receive two free meals on their first Blue Apron order.
- There’s no long-term commitment; you can pause or cancel the service at any time.