and I used to hoard groceries.... I was the one where OH.. it's 10 for 10 let's go.. my poor little panty was so filled up, plus I had two cabinets over flowed. I then decided before the new year that this was crazy... and why was I doing it. I guess alot comes from childhood-things were always lean and not much money. My husbands job, they sign a contract every 3 years or they go on strike (union) so... I really went nuts then, plus they like to give days off now and then and of course never let you know till the last minute. So that was my excuse to over- load my poor tiny home in a mess of groceries. I thought I was saving, but after cleaning out my pantry and throwing things away because they were past due was just ridiculous.

I then joined mommysavers just in time for the Forget the Jones project, and totally cleaned out my pantry etc. before I did any more shopping. I wrote out menus, and finally knew what was in my pantry and when it would be used.

I now have realised how much money I was spending, but also what I am able to save in a month... so far.. $480.. WHOOT!

I still get a thrill in the sales... lol.. but, I keep the one we are using and keep one in stock idea and it seems to be working just fine. The 10 for 10 is a wonderful idea, but in small print they always have on all items marked, so you don't have to buy 10 box of Hamburger Helper. Who Knew! So now my game plan is a couple of this, couple of that.. and its still a $1.00 for those 10 items.

I do think, when strike threat comes around again I will prepare my family but hopefully not in crazy mode as before.

__________________
Tina

Mom to Austin 9/15/95
and to Rachael 7/15/00

Our Kroger here doubles $1 coupons so I am always picking up things for free or almost free. So much of what I stock-up on are deals I can't pass up. With a few exceptions we eventually use it all up, and I am with MsJoyce in that I donate a lot (mostly free shampoo, toothpaste and other toiletries) to the local food pantry.

I try to stockpile a food storage for as far out as possible. Right now we probably have enough food for 4 months, minus the milk and fresh fruits and veggies. I have a 9 month old and a two year old so I hate making those quick trips to the store. I also stockpile things like pedialyte and wipes because the last thing I want to do when one of them starts throwing up is take them out.

I agree with Ms. Joyce. I have been stock-piling and coupon clipping for the past year. I have saved so much money that I have been a stay at home mother since last August. I have gotten so many items for free or close to free that I also help my MIL, parents, sister and various families in the community. It makes me feel good to help others and I will never stop doing it. I can't believe that I used to pay full-price for items and make mad dashes to the grocery stores. NEVER AGAIN!