Yep, it’s annoying, but I’ve converted to using a shopping list whenever I hit the stores. Particularly the grocery stores. It’s not a new idea, but it’s getting new attention now that we’re all trying to cut back on impulse spending.

I have a standing list on my computer that includes most of our family’s every-week buys. It’s organized by section of store: Produce, Dairy, etc. (Download a Microsoft Word version of my  Grocery List and customize it to your own needs). I just print out a half dozen copies and keep them in my kitchen cabinet. Every week I put a new one up on our frig, so hubby and I can both check off the items we need as we go. I’ve never understood why anyone would keep a grocery list on a chalkboard or dry-erase board. You’ve just got to rewrite it on paper before you leave the house.

I haven’t tried these yet, but apparently a number of companies are now offering online grocery lists. Let me know if you try any of these:  Grocerlist, GroceryWiz, Grocery Note, Knotler,  and Ziplist.