Practical Tools

The first few months of trying to be a “smart shopper” can be difficult. I couldn’t find one resource to teach me how to make it work. So, I learned from others and made some very simple systems to make it work for me- a busy mom of two young boys.

Below are the PRACTICAL TOOLS that I’ve created. Click on a category to see the tools.  Detailed tutorials are included which explain how to use each tool to make saving money easy and fun!

Shopping
Grocery List by Aisle- My favorite tool!   Laminate this list and use it to get you in and out of the store in record speed.
Buy It Now- Not sure if that’s the lowest possible price? Use this list of the most common grocery items so you know when to stock up!
Price Grid- Easily track the price of the items you buy the most

Meal Planning
Recipes At A Glance- A one sheet summary of all your favorite recipes.
Weekly Meal Planner-  My second-favorite tool!  Quickly plan two weeks of meals and snacks, laminate, and post on your fridge
Freezer List-  A list of freezer friendly foods with tips and tricks to maximize your freezer stock pile.
Recipe Cost Calculator- Ever wonder how much something costs to make? Just insert the ingredients and this excel sheet will calculate the cost!
Conversion Sheet- How many ounces are in a cup? How many cups in a quart? Put this equivalents sheet inside a kitchen cabinet and glance at it while cooking. It makes doubling/tripling recipes easier too!

Household
Cleaning Schedule- A simple schedule that allows you to do a few small chores each day and by the end of two weeks your entire house will be clean.

Coupons
Divider Tabs- These tabs make finding coupons quick and easy, regardless of if you’re a binder, box, or filing inserts kinda gal.

Budget
Variable Budget-  A simple way to track expenses that fluctuate each month.