Time and Money Saver

Do you dislike grocery shopping? It is one of the tasks that we all share in -- man, woman, single, married. We have to eat. We have to go to the grocery store.

For whatever reason, I have always loved grocery shopping. Maybe it's because I grew up with my dad in the grocery business -- stopping at grocery stores on our vacations, admiring polaroids of displays my dad had made back when he was a store manager before we came along, attending "buyers fairs" where the nice food vendors lavished freebies on us because we were kids. I also love food. So pretty much, I like grocery shopping too much. I want that task to have a priority, a night off, so I can enjoy my freedom wandering the isles. And I always spend way too much. Despite the list, despite the shopping on a full stomach rule -- I just can't help it, I see things and it gives me ideas.

So -- here's my tip! Go shopping early in the morning. This morning I was there before 6, and even though it was dark out, it was perfectly safe, because the only people out that early are too old to mug you! I was also not awake enough to think past my list. I had no big ideas while in the produce section. I actually only bought what was on my list (and I didn't forget anything, so methodical was my shopping). Mrs. Mohler would be proud.

How does that save you time? Well, the drive is quicker (which, unless you live next door to your grocery store always plays a factor) because there are no other cars out! Also, since I was so dependent on my list, I just walked down each isle once, and I had virtually no other shoppers to deal with. Finally, only the self checkouts were open, so I could take my time bagging everything just the way I wanted. I like fitting everything into 4-5 bags so I can carry it all in at once. (Clearly this is impossible for you if you shop for a brood!).

So there you have it! I'm sold on my early morning shopping. Try it out, and maybe you'll see the Starbucks light on while driving home (like I did!).