Take-out budget is INSANE now

Dec 6·1 min read

We used to spend maybe $200/month on restaurants/delivery. With the baby (she's 6 months) we're now at like $600+. Why? Because cooking anything more complex than cereal requires two hands and we literally don't have those anymore. Even "quick" meals take 45 minutes when you have to do them in 10-minute chunks between interruptions. We're not even ordering fancy stuff, it's Chipotle and pizza mostly. Is this normal or are we just lazy? Please tell me we're normal lol

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Comments(5)

HHarvey L.RegularDec 6

Have you looked into meal prep services? Like HelloFresh or similar? Might be slightly cheaper than takeout and at least you're getting veggies in there. Still one-handed cooking though so maybe not worth it.

RRick H.RegularDec 6

Yeah the $200 to $600 jump is real. It's because you're exhausted, the baby needs feeding on unpredictable schedules, and sometimes you just need a break. But that number will come down once she's a bit older and you're not in pure survival mode.

CClint R.RegularDec 7

At 6 months with one hand usually occupied by a baby, takeout isn't a luxury, it's a survival strategy. Don't feel bad about the budget. You're feeding your family and staying sane. That matters more than saving $400/month right now.

KKenny W.RegularDec 9

Cook double portions when you DO cook and freeze half. Takes maybe 20 more mins than a single meal but saves you takeout later. Helps with the budget while still giving you the quick meals you need.

ZZack M.RegularDec 8

6 months is the worst because she needs to eat constantly but won't sit in a high chair for 20 mins while you cook. This window gets WAY better around 10-12 months. Budget will naturally come down.