Grocery Shopping

My method of grocery shopping has changed over the past few years. We used to all go out as a family and go grocery shopping. But now with 5 children (4 ages 5 and under) I find it easier and more stress-free to go alone or take 1 child with me. I used these trips out as a reward for good behavior and also I have the kids take turns going out alone with me. I find that this is a great way to spend one-on-one time with each one of my children.

I typically go shopping a few times a month. I don't have any designated day or amount of times I go shopping. I typically will buy about 2 weeks worth of food. Which will include all 3 meals, drinks, snacks and extras (especially if theres a sale). I usually also don't take a list, unless theres something I really need to remember. Like a sale at a store I typically don't shop at, or a larger amount of an item I usually buy. That way I don't forget anything!

I also LOVE grocery shopping! Shoot, I love all shopping! My husband insists that shopping is not a hobby, I try to make him see it is! LOL  I also go alone now because my "way" of shopping is not my husband's way of shopping. Although I know what I need to buy, I walk up and down every aisle in the store. There may be a sale on something I know I need for a later date, and had planned on buying later, but found it now for less. Or there maybe a new product out that may catch my eye that I would like to buy. My husband likes to go to the aisles where we need to get items and them leave. I like my way better! :)

I typically shop at Bottom Dollar and Aldi.  They have what I need for the best prices. There are times though, that I need things that they don't sell, so I will go to either Shop Rite or Giant. I have also found that Giant has the best BOGO sales EVER!! And it's usually in their meat dept. One thing my father taught me growing up was, if there's a BOGO item, get it. Because you're basically getting free groceries. So I always get the BOGO items. I don't use coupons, but I do use the stores bonus cards. I never really got the hang of how to really maximize the use of coupons, and out of frustration, I said forget it. I will use them on more expemsive items if I need to buy them. But typically, I don't use them.

I always look forward to going grocery shopping. It allows me to get the "me" time I need to clear my mind from the day's activities at the house. Or it allows me to connect with one of my children one-on-one. It's like the little recharge I need to lift my spirits!

Visit some more fabulous ladies and see how they do their grocery shopping!

Carrie @ Our Full House
Christi @ Ants on a Farm
Elizabeth @ Yes They’re All Ours
Kathy @ Kathy Mom of Many 
Kristy @ Homemaker's Cottage 
Lori @ Happy Busy Mama
Monica @ Natural Mama
Renee @ Bakers Dozen