A Better Shopping Strategy
I like to consider myself great at planning, but when it comes to grocery shopping, I fall short. I keep lists on random sticky notes, scraps of paper, and our kitchen chalkboard. I’ve tried using list apps on my phone, but I’ve just never been disciplined enough to be successful with those. In fact, I often find myself “running out for a few things”, and completely forgetting my lists altogether!
The pandemic has forced me to reevaluate how I do my grocery shopping. Suddenly, each trip out to a store became a stealth mission. Long gone were the days when I could swing through a local store in my travels, casually strolling the aisles in search of things I may (or may not) need. Plus, I didn’t want to bring my kids with me if I don’t have to because they are little germ magnets.
Like many others, I dove headfirst into a grocery delivery service. I filled my online shopping cart in a panic, seemingly preparing for an underground bunker situation. I proudly thought to myself, “I got this!” as I clicked the checkout button. Then… reality hit me hard when the calendar of available delivery dates popped up… 2 WEEKS for the earliest delivery! Ugh!
I begrudgingly snatched up a time and waited in earnest for my groceries. However, when the day finally arrived, nearly 2/3 of the items were sold out, and half of what I did get was substitutions that my kids wouldn’t eat. I ended up running out to a grocery store later that day to pick up the items I needed. What a waste of time and money!
I realized this haphazard process was not going to work long-term and I needed a better plan. I created an inventory of everything my family uses in my house. Then, I plugged everything into a spreadsheet and added checkboxes. I printed it out and attached it to a clipboard, which I hung inside my pantry. No more messy lists on random scraps of paper! Now, everything is in one place. When I place an online order, I consult my checklist. If I need to run out to a grocery store, I have my list ready to go.
Time to Relax is Important
No one loves the beach more than me! I always look forward to my annual week-long family vacation down the shore, but this year I decided against it. In fact, I didn’t take a vacation at all, which was a big mistake! By the time October rolled around, I was crawling out of my skin in need of a break from reality.
This year, we’ll take lots of day trips to the beach. I’m asking friends and family for their recommendations for local small and quieter beaches. I’m thrilled to learn there are so many not too far from us in New Jersey!
I am also planning ahead for a staycation, just in case the pandemic is still a concern. I’m cleaning up the whole yard to create an oasis the kids and I can enjoy together. Since I won’t be spending money on that big beach vacation, I plan to invest in my home and yard! I might have the deck refinished, plant a new tree, and hang a hammock for lazy days in the summer sun.
Need ideas for your yard? Check out 5 Ways to Boost Your Mood in Your Own Backyard!