I messed up regarding groceries

**mmy2grls** · 12-13-2007, 10:51 AM

I recieve 220 a month in food assistance and usually spend 100 also towards groceries. This month I decided to try to buy everything needed at one time instead of weekly for the whole month. I messed up, I realized today I left out a lot of stuff we needed so it's going to cost me more than 100 this month.

Lesson learned on my part. I'm going to sit down with my oldest daughter with a calendar so I won't make mistakes next month. My idea of saving money backfired because I didn't plan well enough.

**ktsmama** · 12-13-2007, 11:04 AM

I'm sorry this happened to you. I, too, have to sit down with a calendar and make plans before I shop.

**FrugalMomof3** · 12-13-2007, 11:08 AM

I too am sorry this happened, so writing down what is needed before going shopping is a plus, good luck next month

**acidcookie** · 12-13-2007, 12:22 PM

But now you learned what doesn't work! It will work out

**JustJoy** · 12-13-2007, 12:54 PM

{{HUGS}} Is there a food panty in your area that you could check out?

**mmy2grls** · 12-13-2007, 01:20 PM

Everything will be fine

Next month I will plan better so I can get everything we need in 1 trip except milk and fruit. I figured one trip would save gas plus we could plan better meals for the whole month.

**Momto2Boyz** · 12-13-2007, 08:16 PM

I've tried that before and have had a hard time with it too! I find that I can plan ahead to make 2 trips to the store per month (about 2 weeks of food each trip), but if I try for any more than that, I ended up missing things or totally not estimating right, then have to go back and get more of something I have already bought.

It just takes some trial and error. I think the key (which is what I am not good at), is writing down EVERYTHING you need, even basic staples that you take for granted are always in the cupboard. This is where I mess things up, with butter or flour or sugar, or the real basics that I don't buy each week or even each month!

Good luck with next month, you'll have to let us know how it goes!

**mmy2grls** · 12-14-2007, 07:28 AM

I think 2 trips would be a better starting point for me. Once I get a handle on that then I could do 1 trip.

**shoiji** · 12-14-2007, 03:25 PM

Try not to be so hard on yourself. Everyone is different so it might take a while to figure out what works best for you.

**cottageliving** · 12-14-2007, 04:58 PM

I think your idea of getting used to 2 trips and then down to 1 is a good one.

I've recently made the same mistake as you. It is so easy to overlook needed items, and we'll learn by trial and error.

At least the items you bought will last you longer than one month! You'll still use everything -- hang in there.

**MarshHen** · 12-15-2007, 02:16 PM

With a little careful planning and practice, you will master this in no time. It took me a few attempts before I finally figured out a plan that worked for me. Each family and household are different, but careful menu planning and list making seem to work well for everyone. I keep lists posted on my pantry door, and I mark things off as I use them up (or almost use up) so I know it's time to restock. I also keep a list of items I keep in the fridge like butter, milk, eggs, jams & jellies, etc.. I have one for each freezer. One for bathroom supplies like soap, TP, toothpaste, shampoo, hubby's shaving stuff, dedorant's, etc. One for cleaning supplies, pet foods. It seems like alot, but it's the only way I can manage everything. I save time, gas, sanity, and most of all money!

I live out in the country where I don't have quick access to stores of any kind, so it's essential for me to know what I have on hand at all times.

Doing this with your daughter will help her learn to be frugal as well and that's a good thing!