This past week:
In terms of grocery spending, it wasn't significantly different than usual. Part of that comes from the fact that I had to buy a few extras this week as I was having some friends over throughout the week. Another big part was that I was signed up to run a race on today, so wanted to make sure I spent the week eating a little less adventurously. That meant lots of chicken, veggies, and quinoa.
On a trip to Target, I reevaluated the shopping cart before going to the checkout. I managed to put back over $20 worth of stuff that we didn't really need. Seriously, I would have spent an extra $20 without even thinking about it! If I did that every time, imagine how quickly the savings would stack up.
We did not eat a single meal out this week. For us, we tend to eat at least one meal out a week, usually in the form of a quick stop to Chick-fil-a. We managed to even resist temptation when picking up a meal for a friend to drop off. (And let me tell you, resisting steak kabobs was not easy.) Because food tends to make up our biggest spendings, I definitely call this a success!
Goals for Week 3. This coming week, I am going to plan my meals around what we have stocked in the freezer, and only purchase the must haves. Still have no need to pick up any snacks for us or the kids, since our pantry still has plenty in it. We are planning to have a date night, but otherwise my goal is to not eat out any other meals for the week.
Tip for Week 3: Here's a tip to try over the next week to see if it makes a difference. When out at the store, whether grocery or Target/Wal-Mart, before checking out, look over your cart to see if you really do need everything you picked up. Chances are you can find at least one or two things to put back. Make a note of how much you saved by putting things back, and let me know!
How did week #2 go for you? Do you notice any differences in your spending habits? Would love to hear about your experiences in the comments!
Kelly
I haven't "been to the store" for something besides dairy or produce since January 20th. We are NOT starving and I have barely made a dent in the freezer and pantry!
ReplyDeleteAfter spending weeks cleaning out and taking stuff to goodwill (probably 10 large boxes & 20 trashbags of clothes), I have started evaluating my purchases by thinking "is this something that can end up in my junk box in a few years?". If yes, I don't buy it. The memory of what I now consider junk is very fresh. My husband is on board too! We think we are going to forego "thing" gifts and only buy experiences for each other, unless we really need (not want) something. I have also been looking for sport sunglasses for about. year but haven't purchased and I found some in my closet! Another plus of cleaning out - I remember I have things because if is visible!
DeleteYes!! That's awesome! Isn't it crazy how much you can find that you didn't even realize you had? You are definitely on a roll girl! We do the experience gifts from grandparents for our family gift at Christmas. Zoo membership has been fantastic!
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