I Grocery Shop Differently

 Morning to all.  It is early - haven't been outside yet, it is still dark.  Just getting a headstart!  It is warmer this A.M. than past mornings.  Today will hit 40's and I am looking forward to that.  I think it is supposed to be windy as well, but dry.  It is going to get very cold and nasty this weekend for a lot of the country.  I hate that for everyone.  We are to get super cold - we are on the fringe of the weather system - we will see.

I probably (most likely) shop a LOT different than the average person.  I have always been this way.

This past year (2025) I saved just under $1,000 using my digital coupons!  I well imagine I saved close to that amount buying clearance as well.  That is a lot off the grocery bills.  That works out to a $166 savings a month.

I basically buy almost NOTHING that isn't a digital coupon item or clearance.  It is rare for me to pay a regular price - very rare.

I do not shop every week - sometimes I don't go to the store for several weeks.  I always make sure that I have enough milk on hand for a few weeks, and I seem to be able to keep fruits and veggies a good amount time.

I am not brand conscious, nor do I pay a lot of attention to 'best by' dates.

I use what I have.  I have a great and PLENTIFUL pantry, between what I grow and can to the items I get cheaply.

I do NOT waste - I use leftovers in some way.

I have meatless days every now and then.  When I do eat meat, I use less than called for in recipes.  I can add beans or mushrooms to extend meat.  I also use rice and pasta as extenders.

If I have leftovers that I don't want to eat soon - I freeze for another day.  That makes for easy meals.

I buy whole fruits and veggies and not cut up ones.  Buying the cut-up products costs more and often has been treated with something, or it goes off quicker.  I try to stay as pure as possible.

I substitute a lot.  If I am out of something - I figure out a sub.  I don't run out to buy what I am out of.

I tend to MAKE UP a lot of my cooking as I go.  I 'play' with food!!!!!!  I love trying new things and ways of putting food together.

I make most of my sauces and mixes and treats.

I do NOT buy water. (once a year only for company).  I resist pop.  I drink water or tea at home.  I am not a coffee drinker.

I always go with a list of what I really need, then I do look at clearance goods.

I don't have to shop this way - but it just makes good sense to me.  I can use my funds on other things.  I like getting the best deal I can and making things last as long as I can.

Hope this gives someone some ideas on ways to cut the grocery budget back a little.  There are ways to not spend a ton at the store.  People keep saying it can't be done - YES it can.

Be open to new ways, new ideas, new recipes and new ways of shopping.  Eyes WIDE OPEN can make a HUGE difference.

Have a beautiful day and stay safe and warm out there.