Friday, April 22, 2011

Why Is It Called the Supermarket When It's Anything But Super?

The supermarket.

It should be your friend, welcoming you into it's shiny aisles, beckoning to you to come squeeze the produce.

It used to be this way. The supermarket was a destination, a place to go to actually HAVE FUN! Not all that long ago, our moms and grandmoms would plan their trip to the market around a carefully constructed list, easing themselves into their appointed shopping day excursion. First, a balanced breakfast before the trip to the store. Then cruising the aisles, buying ingredients to make meals for the week. Followed perhaps by a lovely lunch with friends, and home in time to greet the kids by the time they walked home from school. Then an entire afternoon to create a well balanced dinner.

All before hubby walks in the door at 6:00 sharp.

I want those days back. I'd trade in an instant. Just to put the fun back into everyday events.

And I don't rush around half as much as other people . But I just came from a trip to the supermarket to pick up a few unexpected things, (last minute dinner party). And everyone there looked sad and unhappy. And hunched over their carts. What's that all about?

If you are looking to ease your shopping a bit, here are my down and dirty tips. However, I'm warning you - you're not going to like them. They're going to force you to change your habits, but I promise you'll be happier in the long run. And saner.
  1. Once a week, plan out 7 dinners. Take into account sports practices, school events, anything that would effect your cooking dinner that night.
  2. Balance out meat, fish, veggie options. Also check what you already have on hand.
  3. Make a shopping list of all ingredients you need to buy.
  4. Go to the store ONCE.
  5. Do not return to the store that week. If you end up needing something, figure out how you can make due with what you already have at home.
  6. repeat next week.
That's it. Very basic, but basic works. I know you're now running through your head all the reasons this can't possibly work for you. But try it for a few weeks. See if it doesn't make you a saner, happier person. What do you have to lose?

be organized!.....evelyn

If you would like more organizing tips, find more in my eBook, 30 Days to an Organized Home, by clicking on the title. You can get a free sample there too!

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