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Exhausted? Same. Here Are Easy Dinner Ideas

Exhausted? Same. Here Are Easy Dinner Ideas

For moms who manage money, meals, and the messy middle.

Ann Woo
December 08, 2025

Happy Monday! Today is going to be a great day and I’m so glad you’re here. 🥰

I had a cozy Sunday (after a chaotic Saturday) putting stamps on and sealing all of my Christmas cards. I ended up spending $210 on 110 Christmas cards this year (and that was with a 20% Cyber Monday code). According to last week’s newsletter poll, 36% of you are sending 51–100 cards, while 28% aren’t sending any at all. Over on Instagram Stories, the split was similar: 52% are mailing fewer than 100, and 30% are opting out entirely.

Despite the expense, I love the tradition. I love flipping through old cards and seeing the kids change through the years. I found a beautiful linen-covered album to organize and display them all, and it’s quickly becoming one of my favorite keepsakes.

There’s something uniquely meaningful about being a mom during the holidays. You become the keeper of traditions, the creator of magic, the curator of moments big and small. And even amidst the chaos, it’s everything I ever wanted. Seeing my 4-year-old look forward to the things we did in previous years fills me with so much joy. I didn’t grow up with many holiday traditions, so building them now for my own kids feels extra special.

Just over two weeks until Christmas, which means it’s time to check in: are you totally done shopping or panic-purchasing in the middle of the night? Let me know in the poll at the end- I’d love to hear from all 1,168 of you!

Let’s get into it:

🍽️ What’s for Dinner

Seafood Pasta with Shrimp and Scallops - I had leftover shrimp and scallops from our holiday dinner party on Saturday, and on Sunday I turned them into a quick one-pan meal that was a big hit with the kids and husband. I didn’t follow a specific recipe, but this version is very close. Just use plenty of butter, parsley, and lemon for a simple and perfect dish.
Easy Crock Pot Pork Roast Recipe - Trying this recipe for the first time this week! Pork shoulders/boston butts are budget-friendly and great for meal prepping.
Creamy Mushroom Risotto - I served my seared scallops with this risotto recipe over the weekend and it was such a hit. It would be delicious on its own as a vegetarian dish or serve with grilled chicken on the side.
Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet - I love the simple combo of protein + veggies for an easy, delicious weeknight dinner and this one delivers. Perfect for the whole family.
Greek Sheet Pan Chicken and Veggies - I make at least one sheet pan recipe every week and this one has a combination of so many of my kids’ favorite ingredients. Love the look of this veggie-loaded meal.

❤️ What I’m Recommending

This section contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy through them—at no extra cost to you (thanks for supporting the newsletter!).

This insanely comfortable bralette has been my go-to for everyday wear. No underwire and very breathable. The same brand carries this high-waisted thong that provides extra support to smooth out any unevenness and is perfect for all of your fancy holiday dresses and skirts
I hosted a holiday dinner party on Saturday and received so many compliments on these candle sticks with red bows. They are sure to spruce up any festive table
These suede booties are my one-year-old’s entire personality right now. So cute and easy to wear (and walk!) for the stylish littles
This dessert/salad plate set is everything to me and I need to invest in more holiday tableware. Such a classic design that you will treasure for years to come
I’ve been eyeing big coats for my own personal list and I love this relaxed fit wool coat that could be easy to dress up or down

💸 In This Economy? (Mom’s Version)

California Coast Mom with a $4K Mortgage and $5K Door

In This Economy? is a weekly series showcasing the costs of motherhood from real moms. Want to share your story anonymously? Submit here — no names, no judgment.

Age: 34
Kids: Yes, two - 3.5 and 1.5 year olds
Job: Senior Project Manager for a creative agency
Household Income: $200k
Own or rent: Own, our mortgage is $4,100
Childcare or daycare expense: $2,530
Recent purchase you regret: $80 on pants for my toddler that he won't wear
Splurge and don’t regret: New sliding glass door for our bedroom - $5k
Best “mom sanity” splurge: bi-weekly Thai food delivery
Weekly “kid stuff” spend: $150
Weekly spend on groceries: $250
Most spent on a kid party: $1000
Purchase that you don’t tell your partner about: Since we bought our house I don't have any :(
Saving for your kids college tuitions: No, because my parents created college savings accounts for them
Something financial you wish your parents had taught you: Investments! Stocks!
Managing family budget: Rocket Money app
Great ways to save money on kid-related expenses: Only buy the clothes when they are on sale, they always go on sale, just be patient (I say to myself)
Money advice for other moms: They don't care if their clothes/toys are used. They just don't, they will still be excited.
Finish the sentence: “In this economy, I still somehow _______.” bought our first house

Thanks again for being here. If you love it, forward this to a mom friend—more voices make this better. And if you ever want to share, vent, or suggest something, just hit reply. I’m reading every email!

Woo you next week,
Ann