A Few of My Favorite Things
Valentine’s Day is Tuesday. I thought about doing some dinners for two, but when I was making the grocery list the thought had completely fled and I just didn’t. This week there is no theme either. I just went through the freezer to see what meat I had and the pantry to see what sides I could throw with it. Then, it occurred to me I have done this a couple weeks now. It struck me then. Groceries have gotten to the point where it’s hard for me to go shopping. The prices of everything have gone up. I have always hated going to the store. Now, I dread it. I can’t always afford what I want and have to stick to making do with what I can. So this week’s meals don’t cost much, but I thought I could share a few tips here at making the most out of your money when it comes to groceries.
Easy On the Wallet
Valentine’s Day is Tuesday. I thought about doing some dinners for two, but when I was making the grocery list the thought had completely fled and I just didn’t. This week there is no theme either. I just went through the freezer to see what meat I had and the pantry to see what sides I could throw with it. Then, it occurred to me I have done this a couple weeks now. It struck me then. Groceries have gotten to the point where it’s hard for me to go shopping. The prices of everything have gone up. I have always hated going to the store. Now, I dread it. I can’t always afford what I want and have to stick to making do with what I can. So this week’s meals don’t cost much, but I thought I could share a few tips here at making the most out of your money when it comes to groceries.
Plan your meals. This is a great way to stick to any kind of budget and have any hope of saving money. Of course, you have to have the willpower to stick to it too. Then, sit down once a week meals for next week. Write it out and stick it on the fridge or on a calendar so the whole family knows what to expect. This gives everyone time to make complaints or ask for changes.
Another way to save mon-ey is by backwards planning. I know that sounds odd, but it’s not too difficult. I did it the last couple weeks. There are even apps that can help you with recipes based on what you have on hand if you aren’t sure what to make. Check your pantry or freezer for what you have on hand that might need to be cycled out due to age. Make a list and keep it right inside the door, marking stuff off as you use it and adding items as you purchase new. Bonus: you are cleaning out the pantry/ freezer to make room for different items.
Plan on only one trip to the store a week. It will help you stay on budget. Once you have planned your meals and checked your ingredients, make your list and stick to it. Going once a week helps keep you on budget as it keeps you from changing your mind in the middle of the week and cooking something other than what you have planned. If you are using fresh produce, cook those meals early in the week so it doesn’t spoil. Meals later in the week can be leftovers or use frozen veggies if you want to cook again.
Price compare, not just different stores. Different brands cost different amounts. They try to trick you by not coming in the same amounts though. Make sure the unit price is the best price for what you need. Don’t be afraid to buy generic either. While there are somethings I refuse to compromise on, most things you really can’t tell much of a difference.
Grocery pickup can help too. It keeps you from impulse buying and can be a huge help if you tend to buy things as you go that just aren’t on your list, just be careful you don’t start adding things to the cart you really don’t need. Also, don’t be too shy to use coupons. This isn’t as prevalent as it used to be, but it can save you money! This weekend, check your ingredients and make your grocery list for only what you need. Then, meet me in the kitchen for easy meals on a budget!
