This is what happens when you go shopping without a plan.
I stopped by the local Albertsons, because I had heard that they were having a closeout sale.  I thought I'd see what was still available.  But when I saw that many of the shelves were already empty, I started picking up items that I thought I might need, and that I rarely see on sale and rarely have a coupon for.
I walked out of the store having spent $79.64.  Oops.  My weekly grocery budget (including paper goods and personal care items) is $60.  I spent more than this week's allowance.  No, since I already bought food earlier this week, I spent more than next week's allowance.  Oops.
So, for the next four weeks, I'll have to limit my budget to $40 per week.  Ugh.
But, on a good note, I was able to stock up on many items.  For instance, I bought five packages of Goodnites for my daughter.  I had already picked up three at the great 
Walgreens Goodnites deal, but I run out of them quickly.  The shelf price was $10.49, but they were 40% off, and I had five $1.50 coupons.  So each package was $4.79, an excellent price.
I also got 2 rolls of Marcal paper towels, which after discount were $1.11.  I had two $1 off coupons, so I got each roll for $.11!
I stocked up on kosher meat.  For those of you who do not keep kosher, you would have sticker shock to see the meat prices.  It's one reason why I serve meat only two times a week or so.  All kosher meat/chicken was 10% off, and since it rarely goes on sale, I bought a few months' worth.  I also got Shabbat candles - over a year's worth.
I will be going back tomorrow... but this time, with a plan to get only the best deals with coupons!
 Read more...
Read more...