We usually do two big shops a year. One in the fall around Oct and another around April time. This consists of an 8 page grocery list which just covers the food items! On top of that there are all the 'sundry' items that have made it to the 'must get' list.
A few years ago I composed a list on the computer. Starting with baking goods it covers canned goods, dry goods, meat, veg and fruit, misc, bread, dairy and cleaning items. Overall it works quite well and can be added to if there is a new fad or fancy.
These mammoth shops don't take as long as one would imagine but they do take concentration! Once started it is best to see it to the end even if you are heartliy sick of pushing that trolley with the wonky wheel and trying to fit it all into the mini van rented for the occasion
All the 'groceries' can usually be done on an afternoon. There are always distractions along the way and impulse buys are a problem, but some strong will ( well not very strong really) and determination gets the job done.
My list writing starts as soon as we return from the last trip. There are usually items forgotten but those are becoming less and less over time. The thing about living where there are no shops is that if you don't have it you do with out! A great lesson for most and can take a bit of getting used to. We do have the option of having things sent to us, arriving by freight boat but of course that costs money, so a little forward thinking and you can live very well.
This trip was quite a mommoth affair. Canned goods come by the case and flour by the 10kg bag. Dog food is in 50lb bags and as we have a new, growing dog, must buy enough to see her through the summer. There are all those little items as well. Spices and herbs, sauces and spreads.
I make most things from scratch so my baking list is quite extensive.
This trip also saw the purchase of a large amount of wine!! We use a 'U Brew' shop in Campbell River who do it all for you. You just have to turn up with bottes! Three types, red, white and rose, makes up 8 cases and it is all now safely stored away.
The boat was VERY full not only with groceries and wine but also all the sundry items we need. A log splitter, a flat screen tv, a washing machine (second hand), a bale of shavings used as bedding for the guinea pigs, a sun lounger and various marine parts.
Some of you may be asking about the sell by/expiration dates on many items. It is now that I tell you most of what is printed is a ploy to get you to buy more and just a marketing tool. We freeze a huge amount of produce, meat and dairy such as milk. Cheese, yogurts and cream last for months in an ordinary fridge and veg last equally as long if kept in a cool dry climate. Canned goods have a life of years if the cans are not damaged in any way.
We estimate that we have enough food to last us, along with supplements of fresh fish, crabs and prawns, over 2 years!! I always look on the shelves and sigh ' what can I make for dinner?". Look again and there is plenty to choose from.
I have not mentioned my 'personal list' which is items such as birthdays, anniversaries etc. As most of my family are in the UK I have to try to think ahead. They may not get presents on the day but they arrive eventually. Also on this list are toiletries and other sundries. I do keep various cards on hand to send so am always stocking up all the time.
All this buying means that sometimes we have a glut of something and have to remember not to buy more. A few years ago we were renovating a bathroom and I discovered that we have a large amount of soap! Everyday handwashing soap. Some I had purchsed but lots had been given for presents in little gift baskets etc. It was all put together and we did not buy soap for 2 years!! Perhaps you could try this at home? Just a small lesson in waste-not-want-not!!
To add further to all this retail therapy there are things like clothes, personal wants, nuts and bolts, electronics, usually for the boats, outboard parts, house hold goods....need I go on?
Thank good ness for list.as long as you remember to fill them in!!
Happy Shopping
and is that Marmite there? and Jolly Green Giant? well done! a shopping list as long as your arm, eh? or a fraction longer, maybe!! xx Sue Ch
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