$335

I'm out of cash and won't be doing any more grocery shopping until Friday. Our budget this month allowed one big trip to the grocery store around the 8th of January. Most of our meals have come from the pantry and freezer with a few items picked up at the grocery on an as-needed basis. Our total grocery expenses for the month came to $335. That's for 8.25 people, only counting the days that our college-aged daughter was home. I'm amazed. Granted some of the meals were a little strange. We didn't eat our normal amount of fresh produce. The kids only had milk on their cereal and an rare glass with dinner. The variety of vegetables was limited after the 23rd. Paige is in the throes of peanut butter withdrawal. I really desire some caffeine. Still, we managed to eat for a fraction of what most people spend on groceries.

While, I don't want to do this again any time soon. The experience has been positive for me and my children. The kids realize that even the "yucky" stuff I normally feed them tastes good when faced with the choice of eating it or going hungry. I have never been one to prepare special foods for each person based on their preferences. (When would I find the time?) In the past I have offered the option of a peanut butter sandwich, instead of what is served. The option will no longer be available. When peanut butter is chosen, the uneaten entree is often placed in a Tupperware container, and is often eventually thrown out. We will be wasting a lot less food in the future.

Last week, Paige said, "Allie, don't take so much cheese, mom might need some for another meal." I don't want my children to be afraid about where their next meal is coming, but I do want them to realize that food is a blessing and should not be wasted."