Monday, January 12, 2009

68%

I just saved record cash at the Grocery store. I can't believe how much money I am saving. I was so sceptical of this when we first started but now I am a believer. We have more food storage then ever and are eating better then we were when I was spending $700.00 a month on groceries. It is not cheap to raise four children and I just thought I was doing the best I could. I was wrong. I am now feeding my family on $250.00 a month (and that includes household items such as diapers, laundry soap, cleaning supplies, toiletries, etc.).
However, the best part is that I am loving grocery shopping. I actually get super excited to go to the store. What used to be a chore is now my favorite part of the week. It is the best natural high around.

A Few Great Couponing Tips

1. Everything in the Grocery store goes on sale during a four month period. The trick is to stop menu shopping and start SALE/COUPON shopping. When something is on sale buy a minimum of months worth. Thus, it will take you four months to hit your rock bottom prices.

2. Don't look through your coupons, just file and forget. Only look at "the list" on Grocery Smarts. This way you won't be tempted to use your coupons before you can get a rock bottom price.

3. Create 20 recipes that work for you family, print them out and keep them handy. Stock up on the items it takes to make these recipes. When it is time to cook dinner you will have plenty of choices. Your family will be eating better than ever on less cash.

4. Stock Up on cleaning supplies, laundry, dish soap and toiletries. Most last for a one year. These items go on sale for incredible prices, but they have the potential to eat up a grocery budget if they are purchased for full price.

5. Buy multiple copies of the Sunday Paper. The standard rule is: One paper per person in your family. The cost is about $1.50 per paper. Amy and I are able to offer $10 gift cards for each subscription. Do the math. It's worth it.