SI Money Savers

After I decide what we will be eating for the next week it is time to write out my list.  I write down all things that I know we must have to make it through the next week, including items I need to complete any of the recipes planned for our menu.

My grocery list will look something like this:

Milk

Bread

Eggs

Cheese: shred and block

Fruits & Veggies (check sales)

check meat aisle for sales or mark downs

cottage cheese

yogurt

nuts

Peanut Butter

Tuna

These are some of the basics I am looking for every week.  They are the items my family eats most every day of the week.  Then I will add specific things I need to make a recipe.  For instance this week I had leeks, sourcream, whole wheat tortillas and frozen cauliflower.

As I make my way through Kroger I mark each item off the list as I put it in the cart.  I also keep a running talley down the side of my list so I know pretty much what I have spent.

My budget is $200 a payday (every 2 weeks) and that includes all groceries, household, health and beauty and dog food.  I have also been adding many other small things into the budget as well.

Having a list is really a must!  It keeps you from forgetting items you really need and ultimately keeps you from heading back to the store to purchase said item.  For me it is a really great guideline to follow.  Do I ever stray from my path?

Of course, who dosen’t!  I try not to but sometimes I find an unbelievably good deal I just can’t pass up.  Other times I give in to the temptation of a small impulse buy.   Even though I may occasionally stray from the list I have only went over budget 1 time since I started my couponing adventure.  Having a plan and a list can help keep you within your budget constraints everytime.