Nov. 11, 2024 

If you're struggling to accept that eggs now cost about the same as a pair of sneakers, you’re not alone. Washington ranks among the highest in the nation for household spending, and Puget Sound parents are feeling the budget squeeze more than ever.

In addition to our dive into the cost of living crisis, this week we’re also offering a money-saving meal planning guide to take the stress out of family dinners, plus a roundup of the best holiday treats and gifts from Trader Joe’s (pro tip: the 12 Days of Beauty Advent calendar is here!) to keep things festive without breaking the bank.

It’s our mini guide to managing modern family life. You’ve got this, parents. 

— Kristin Leong, senior editor