We usually have 1 or 2 big monthly buy(s) and we use a list to make sure we get what we need. It’s cut down on duplicate buys. For milk or bread, we usually grab it on our way home from work.

Smoking can be a very expensive habit. I didn’t realized how much until I was in a check out with the cartons in the back. I’m glad you’re not smoking.

What I’ve started doing is going to the grocery store before deciding what to make. I look in the produce section and the meat section to see what looks fresh and what’s on sale. If I see anything that looks good and that’s cheap, I’m always confident that I can use it to fix something yummy. Around here, stores always have unadvertised specials. I’ve also gotten some roasts really cheap because the meat was approaching its sell-by date. (If I’m going to cook it the same day anyway, I’m perfectly happy buying meat on its sell-by date.)

I guess the advice about sticking to your list is supposed to limit your impulse buys–you don’t put candy and soda on your list and then you don’t buy any. But that’s not where I go awry in grocery shopping.