Planning a Birthday Party On A Budget

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What makes my son’s birthday extra special this year?
He got his license…and I stayed under my weekly grocery budget for his party.
Somehow, I think he thinks the license is much better than the budget.

It took a lot of planning but I was able to do it. I scanned my pantry and freezers for items that I had and I planned around that. Here was the menu:

Five-Layer Mexican Dip w/ Nachos

Juicy Loosey Sliders
Grilled Chicken
BBQ Onions
Macaroni Salad
Coleslaw
Baked Beans
Tossed Salad

Watermelon
Cherries
Ice Cream Cake

Ice Tea
Bottle Water

This is what I was able to use from my pantry & freezer: Taco seasoning, Slider rolls, Celery, Ground beef, Chicken, Marinade mix, Onions, condiments, Coleslaw dressing, guacamole, all paper goods.

This is what I had to buy
: Iced tea, water, elbow macaroni, carrots, coleslaw, bagged salad, black beans, sour cream, olives, cilantro, watermelon, cherries, ice cream cake, cheese, baked bean.

As you can see, the most expense items, the meat, were already in my freezer. I really had to focus mostly on fruits, veggies and drinks. All in all it was a success and we even had leftovers which we ate for dinner tonight. Now that the party is over I can focus on the fact that I have another child on the road…YIKES!! Anyone need a party planned?!?