[EEinNJ]

I was frustrated for a long time over the grocery bill- just 2 of us, though we like to cook, and entertain family & friends fairly often. Why were we averaging $5-600 a month?

Last spring, I set a target budget of $100/week, shopping once a week.

1) Use a list, it avoids impulse purchases, buying too much, or running out of something. Just like a diet, portion control

2) Use a calculator. I enter the prices of things as I go through the store. It helps keep track of where the money goes, and keeps me from going over budget. If I'm under budget, I can stock up on something on sale, if I'm over, maybe the ice cream goes back in the freezer.

When I'm done, it's never a surprise at the checkout counter!