I’m shivering in front of my computer, despite my quilted slippers and fleece scarf. Still no snow, but winter temperatures have finally arrived, so I’m especially grateful that we got all our grocery shopping done over the weekend and I don’t need to venture out again this morning. We huddled inside on Sunday, planning the menu, supervising homework, wiping runny noses, doing a few chores and working through several games and puzzles that were unearthed during the game cupboard reorganization. The Hub and Miss Seven baked a carrot cake, dark with cinnamon and dusted with powdered sugar, and we all sat down to tea. We’re looking forward to more cake next weekend, as Mr. Nine becomes Mr. Ten (!!!).

We shopped first, buying what was on sale or looked appealing, and then planned our menu. I usually work the other way around, but it can be a fun challenge to search for recipes based on ingredients you have on hand. Today I got even more organizationally inspired, and wrote on my week’s to-do lists when to defrost the chicken and when to soak the beans. The best laid plans can all come to naught if you forget to soak the beans.

Monday: Spaghetti with cherry tomatoes and feta, fennel salad

Tuesday: Cauliflower frittata, Brussels sprout slaw

Wednesday: Thai-style ground beef, coconut rice, stir-fried broccoli

Thursday: BBQ chicken pizza, green salad

Friday: Red beans and rice, pan-roasted asparagus

Saturday: Dinner with friends

Sunday: Indian Butter Chicken Curry, rice, naan, birthday cake

What are you cooking to keep you warm?