The heat of summer is still present, but the nights are beginning to usher in colder air. I'm reminded of the poignancy of the passing of summer and the beginning of another season. Fall! For us, school is starting again and our schedule is filling up.

If you're anything like me, you may find yourself wanting to help when you are invited to participate in a meal schedule, but it's hard to add something else to an already busy schedule. Thankfully, there are ways to take a meal while keeping it simple and making it easy on yourself! Here are 4 of my favorites:

1. Utilize Costco - We recently shared on our Instagram page some delicious meal options from Costco. A few of our favorite "grab and go" meal ideas were Chicken Alfredo, Chicken Street Tacos, and Macaroni & Cheese. Each one is easy to reheat, affordable, and provides generous servings making it easy to feed a large family.

2. Stick to Simple Recipes - When taking a meal, the most important thing I've learned is to stick with my go-to recipes! They are easier to prepare because I know them by heart and I know the recipients will enjoy them. You may have your own tried and true recipes, but if you need fresh ideas, our recipe section has a great selection! If at a loss, take a rotisserie chicken, tortillas, sour cream, bagged lettuce, salsa, and cheese for a delicious chicken taco dinner!

3. Send a Meal - We offer shipped meals through our store that deliver a delicious ready-to-heat meal straight to your loved one's door. Earlier this spring, my mom went through knee replacement surgery. She received a meal from our store and LOVED it. The food she couldn't eat right away could be placed in the freezer. My mom's favorite meal was the Pot Roast with Vegetables and Seasoned Rice. It truly was a blessing.

4. Set Aside Extra - When making dinner for your household, make an extra plate or freeze a small portion. These smaller portions can be used when you are taking a meal to 1 or 2 people. A friend of Take Them A Meal shared that she sets aside one or two cookies for a lonely neighbor each time she bakes. We love this idea! It's a great example of how small portions from a meal you are already making can be taken and shared in a meaningful way.

Amid our busy schedules, don't shy away from signing up to take a meal! Let these tips inspire you to take what you have or simply a delicious pre-made meal. Remember that no matter how long it takes you to prepare a meal, it is a blessing!