We all have heard the phrase "Stick To The List" when referring to shopping or groceries or budgets. This is a big reason why I have started saving huge amounts of money on groceries in the past two months. I have been pretty good about making my grocery list throughout the week and before I run to the store on the weekends. As I have said before, I have to get all weekly groceries in one trip on the weekend so a list is vital. Most of the people I see at stores have list so this is nothing new. But how many of us stick to the list?

Previously, I used a list as a starter point but would go up and down the "fun" aisle and browse for extras that my hips and wallet didn't need. I am a sucker for sugar cereals and little debbies. I love ice cream (always have two kinds available) and doritos. I never had these things on the list because they are not things I need for recipes or weekly lunches. But instead, they were extras...good for movie time or after-work snacks. While my hips were getting wider, my wallet became thinner.

Frugal Dad just posted an article about coupons and mentioned an interesting item.

A quick survey of most coupon offerings reveals most manufacturers provide
coupons for prepackaged or convenience food items. I know this because when
shopping with coupons it is impossible to use them anywhere around the perimeter
of the store (where healthier foods such as produce, meats and dairy items are
typically found.

I laughed out loud when I read that because it can be true!!! However, there are many coupons for canned goods and dairy items and items necessary for a good, healthy recipe (condiments, pasta, salsa, etc). Don't give up hope!

For the last two months, I have become list-dependent. I only buy what is on my list - things needed for my weekly meals or for the kids. Amazing! I have started to lose those holiday pounds (yes, slowly but losing them none the less) and my grocery bill is much smaller. So I am giving this cliché a plug - Stick To The List.