It's Not About the Money, Money, Money

But, let's be honest, money is a large part of everything.  You've heard of my goals where money is concerned and I'm trying is all I can say! 

My husband and I do not live as extravigantly as we once did when only one child lived with us.  Although even typing that is ridiculous because we DO live extravigantly.  We have extras.  We do not want for food, clothes, or shelter.  By the way, have you read 7 yet?  By Jen Hatmaker.  If you haven't, go order it.  Now.  Ok, back to our regularly scheduled program...

I wanted to share with you some things I do because they might be of some help to you when you are dealing with the money issues at your house.  The one thing I have really started to tackle is our grocery budget.  Six people eat a lot.  And the boys are still little!  I can't imagine how much they will eat in another 10 years!

1.  Coupons
I learned all about couponing from Southern Savers.  I buy 2 Sunday papers (you can read about why on the website) and use Southern Savers and Coupon Mom to find the best deals each week.  I buy when things are on sale and only buy things that we will use.  I shop at Kroger, Publix, and CVS.  I used to be a WalMart shopper, but not anymore.

Here is an example of what couponing can do for you.  I got all of this, plus 5 12 pks. of diet coke, for around $30 today.

I did it by using coupons, sales, and multiple transactions. 

Couponing does take time.  I probably devote 1-2 hours a week to planning and another 2 plus hours to shopping.  But, we do save.

2.  E-meals

As a full-time working mom, dinner and grocery planning was stressing me out.  Big time.  I then found e-meals and have been a happier camper ever since!  E-meals lets you select a grocery store and then sends you 6 dinners with recipes and the grocery list to go with them.  They plan the dinners around the sales going on at your store that week.  Not only are we not eating the same meals week after week, but my kids eat just about everything that we make.  If I happen to get a week with a questionable dinner, I just cross it off the list.  No more stress about what to have for dinner!  It costs $15 a quarter, but so worth it!

3.  Bountiful Baskets

A friend turned me onto this co-op this week and I ordered my first basket to be picked up on Saturday.  It sounds like a good thing.  Through Bountiful Baskets I can order fresh produce (50% fruits, 50% vegetables) for $15 a week.  I'll be sure to post a picture of what we got this weekend!

I still think we could save more in this area and I plan to tighten my spending as I learn more!  What are some ways that your family saves on groceries?  I'd love to know your tricks!