"OUT Dried parsley and basil. They’re worthless."

That really hit me as a I have a fairly large bottle of both items. In addition, I'm guilty of a number of these crimes including: bottled lemon juice and boxed bread crumbs.

I'm always looking for ways to speed up my cooking because I end up creating a ton of clean-up as it is right now and considering the level of my skills, it's not always worth it. Last night's salad fell victim to an abundance of juice (from the shredded baby carrots and diced cucumber), shredded cheese that didn't really work out, and the recently realized crime of bottled salad dressing.

The only good move I did make was to hold off on purchasing balsamic vinegar. Now I know, to go with expensive vinegar or sherry vinegar.

One day, I'm going to stop this half-assed cooking business and get proper tools. If working on my car has taught me anything it's that when you need something, go ahead and pay for it because if you skimp you're just going to have to make a second trip and waste time and money.

My plan: To cook every meal, every day unless I'm out to a restaurant. I believe, if I do this properly, I will end up saving a lot of money and eating heathier. With any luck, I'll enjoy the food more as well.