The Chicago area did not get a blizzard and actually though it is cold outside, it is a nice clear, windy day.

Grocery shopping was a success, Something I wanted to buy and try it out was being given away as samples so I got to try it before I bought it anyway. Great.

As I was strolling down the aisles gathering my food from the list I made I thought about stocking up on certain things. Since Chicago is an urban area and I do live in the city proper, it is highly unlikely that I would be snowed in for a few days. Stocking up on lots of food would be highly unnecessary. I do like to stock up though. Buying things that are non perishable is something I do. Even when some perishable items are on sale, I do like to take advantage of the pricing. This may mean that I will change what I am eating for the week, or, I could freeze some ground beef or chicken if the price is great. Only within reason.

If you are buying toilet paper, lotion or items that you use daily, stocking up isn’t a real issue. It is a necessity in order to stretch your dollars. Even if milk is cheaper for a gallon but I only need a pint for a recipe I wouldn’t stock up on it. If I see facial tissues on sale, I will buy those. Even though I have stopped using paper napkins, I like disposable tissues because of the germ factor and use them for blotting lipstick.

There are benefits to stocking up on items that you commonly use, you have an opportunity to save money and not have to make a trip to the store just to buy one item. Also, you will have more time to seek out a sale or good price on items that you need.

I did some stocking up after Christmas on soaps, lotions and bath gels which should last me through the fall. I use the bath gels daily and soap and lotion throughout the day. Plus, when in a pinch for a gift for someone, I can to grab a couple of things, creatively wrap them in a basket and instant gift with no additional cost!