Groceries, Groceries, Groceries!

Happy Wednesday!

I have been approached by several friends and readers about something many people struggle with. Grocery shopping.

Questions like the following have been asked:
• How do you keep from spending so much money on groceries?
• Do you make a grocery list? What does it look like?
• Whenever I go grocery shopping, I find myself buying more than I need and things I should not be eating. Help?!
• Do you create your list by recipes you have for meals for the week?

Well, here are some answers.

First thing is first... Make a list! Plan out the meals(this includes date nights, family dinners, etc.) for every day of the week and then create a "grocery list". This list will include all the ingredients you need that you do not have on hand, extras (ie. shampoo, body wash, toilet paper, etc.), and things you need for the week additionally to dinner ingredients (ie. milk, snacks, juices, desserts, etc.).

I will be honest with you, trying to figure what you want to eat every night of the week is not always an easy task. Too many recipes to choose from, not enough time to cook every night, and budget cuts are several issues that keep people from buying, cooking, and eating healthy meals. What do I do? I buy groceries on a weekly basis, but I plan my dinners for the month all at once. I ask Husband for suggestions... Even though he never gives me the healthiest ones (haha!).

My advice? Make some time to create your meal and grocery list for the week (or two weeks- however often you shop). Find recipes you enjoy, plan what you want every night, then create the grocery list using the recipes you have on your meal plan and what all you need besides those items.

What about lunches and breakfasts? Add those too! Maybe you just enjoy leftovers or a sandwich for lunch... Write it down. Maybe you just eat cereal, yogurt, and/or a fruit for breakfast... Write it down.

I have put a picture of my grocery list for the week. I also put up a picture of the actual list I take to the store if I am not using a grocery shopping app on my iPhone (this list was found at The Container Store).

Remember, you want to have healthy, budget friendly, and time appropriate meals. Emphasis on the HEALTHY! And whatever you do... DO NOT BUY ANYTHING NOT ON THE LIST! You will save money if you stick to list (write down EVERYTHING you need- no extras once you get to the store). It also helps to eat a little something before shopping so you buy with your eyes and list, not your hungry stomach.

Got more questions or comments? Please feel free to contact me through email, Twitter, or even Pinterest!