Look what I got for $79.64 (ugh!) at Albertsons!

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!