Recap

The three steps for eating on the cheap are easily attained.  If you are overwhelmed, start with one  step at a time.

Recipes

1. List protein sources that your family will eat.  
2. Now make a list of recipes that use these items that you already cook.  
3. Surf the net or cookbooks, or magazines to find recipes that use the protein and will suit your family.  Cooking magazines are at the library or for .50 at our goodwill,  
4. Start with 7 and add to 14. For variety.

Target list

1. Look through the recipes your family likes.  Write down the key ingredients that are staples.  
2. These are your items to go on your target  list.  You should have 10 or 15.
3. Set up your data.  Use a small notebook or a spread sheet.  
4. Post low prices from ads each week.  
5. Soon you will see a pattern of sales.  

Planning your trip.

1. Using a piece of 8.5X11 piece of paper.  Divide it into quarters.  Mark the top of each with the name of a grocery store ad.  
2. Now start marking down each thing that is on your target list, and any protein and vegetable that is inexpensive.  Use under three dollars a pound for protein and try for a dollar a pound for veggies.  
3. When you are through all 4 ads, cross off anything you have enough stock of, and anything that is a lower price at another store.  
4. Be sure to mark anything that needs a coupon .
5. Check a matching web site for coupons. Gather your coupons as you come across them.  I don't pay for coupons.  If I run across them or find them on the Internet, I'll use them if they pair with a food that I would normally buy or is free.  
6. Go onto  the Internet and search for coupon matching sites in your area.  I use coupon connecttions.com in the Seattle area.  Coupons.com is printable coupons.  I print only what I normally buy and preferably only the things that match up to my list . Mark your list with a @ to designate you have a coupon.  
7. Now pick the two stores that have the best buys on what you need.  
8. Gather your coupons , the ads, and your list.  
9. Plan your trip to use the least amount of gas. 

Go to the stores, get your food, get in and get out.  More time in the store equals more money spent.
Don't buy non food items at the grocery store.
That's  enough to confuse a newbie.  Next time shopping.


Thanks for stopping by

Jane