Kitchen

I have a crockpot. A big one. And a small one. Because for some things we need more than one pot, or larger or smaller amounts.

The small crockpot was the right size for spaghetti sauce, but it took a large one for soup or full meals.

We had a bread machine for a while, but since it made just enough for one slice each if we cut it carefully, I eventually gave that away. We used a KitchenAid mixer instead, which would at least make 4 loaves at a time, allowing us to make bread every day or two. No, we didn't have to bake our own bread, but knowing how sure has been a great blessing, because while we can buy bread sometimes, and can often get it free out here, there have been times when the budget was tight, and we could just make it from ingredients.

I buy my pots and pans from Sam's Club, where they have a nice selection of commercial kitchen equipment. I have a great 30 qt stockpot, and a 14" non-stick skillet which get regular use. The skillet is large enough to make fried rice for about 8 people.

One problem we have is dishes. I don't know how the kids manage to break so many! Stonewear or plastic, it does not matter! The thicker plastic bowls and cups last longer, but even they will wear out under the heavy use that a large family gives them. We put more delicate items up high of course, but you do run out of safe places to put things when you have lots of little hands.