So I did something different last week: I kept a detailed food budget diary.

Some background: one of my favorite websites, the Kitchn, asked me to write about what I ate and spent on food for the week. I’m not going to lie, I was SO excited to get that email! I kept detailed notes on what I ate and what I spent. It was interesting and definitely will be helpful for my budget.

My problem is that I don’t always take into account the random grocery stops I make during the week. I would stop for two things and it would cost $12 or so but I never included that in my weekly budget. I would wonder where the money was going, so this was a really helpful exercise for me! Knowing how much I spend is the best way to keep said spending in check. I may only spend $40 up front at the beginning of the week, but if I stop 3 different times spending $12 each that’s another almost $40.

I can so easily blow my entire food budget. The easiest way to keep track of the money going out is to definitely write it down. For me, a spread sheet is helpful but I often forget to fill it out. I’m big on just keeping a running list.  I have a planner that I keep with me at all times, and it’s the easiest way to  quickly write it down.

As soon as I hear any information about when it might be published I will let everyone know. So excited!!