Starting off November 2009

I figure I'm in a good place to see this work for two reasons. One, I just moved and I'm starting over with almost everything. And two, I have no stockpile and I'm brand new with coupons.

As I said, I want to spend $3900 or less for one year on food (grocery and eating out), HBA and Pet food (average $75 week / 52 weeks). I'll count pet shampoo & litter, but I'm not counting medications or anything for them.

I think I did okay at Kroger. I took part in a ten item mega event. I bought 20 participating items and used 2 coupons. I saved $10 instantly off the grocery bill.

Unfortunately we had to buy some immediate things the night we moved in due to forgetting some things.

Here is the breakdown:

Walmart $21.22
Kroger $46.72 (after $10 instant savings and $2 coupon savings)
Checkers $5.40 (ate out)
CVS $32.24 (have $7 ECB)
Kroger $ 5.22

Total $110.80

I'm not going to be able to do my 2nd round at CVS or go to Walgreens this week. Have to wait till I have more money and still trying to find the best deals. I haven't even been to Winn Dixie yet in the area.

I find myself wanting a coupon for everything. I had to get a new cord for my dryer at Home Depot and hated spending full price! I need to shop around more.

I'm saving the receipts for now so I can get an idea of the prices and make sure I'm getting the best price. I know I'll learn that more over time. I want to turn them into a price book eventually.

First week down. Let's see if I can do better next time.