by Emma Riley Sutton

Created on: May 13, 2008   Last Updated: June 25, 2008

Cutting costs is a must as the prices keep going up. Despite rising costs, my family has managed to save a little money here and there on just about everything. We have stopped going to movies, renting movies, and eating out. We only drive when we have to, making sure to get everything done in one trip. Buying groceries is another story. We all must buy groceries. We have to eat, but we also have to save money. I have found several ways to save money when buying groceries and still have quality, nutritious meals. Surprisingly, it was easy than I thought it would be.

I have changed old saying "it takes money to make money" to "it takes money to save money" when I purchased a discount club membership. I found a wonderful "buy one get on free" membership at a local discount club. A friend and I went into together; it cost us half of what it would have if I hadn't found this great deal. That same membership continues to save me money. My friend and I takes turns driving when we shop there. Half the cost of gas! When we buy in bulk, we will sometimes split the cost and the items, saving us both money. The little bit of money I spent on the membership was back in my pocket after just one trip there.

I also spent money to save money when I bought a reliable used freezer. I now have a place to store all of the frozen finds I buy. I carefully label and date all of the foods I buy so I don't waste them by letting them go bad or get freezer burn. I carefully place the newest items on the bottom. It takes a little time, but it gives me the chance to go through everything and see what I need to use soon. I also freeze leftovers, so they have a nice cold home as well. This saves us a lot of money each month.

Buying in bulk is another way I save money. I buy the family-sized packages of meat. I separate them into what my family would eat in one meal and freeze them. I label everything, even noting what meal ideas I have for each particular package. Into the new-to-me freezer to be used at a later date. I also buy flats of canned vegetables, fruits, and soups when the price is right. Sometimes, the discount club allows it's members to mix and match the flats. I make a special point to go shopping on those days. I also buy packaged meals in bulk. My daughter lives on macaroni and cheese and the "meal helpers" are a great for those crazy days when cooking a "real" meal is out of the question. I add tuna, hot dogs, and shredded chicken to the macaroni and cheese. I jazz those packaged

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