u/melissaw328

I have started trying to make more food items from scratch. I have been successful at salad dressing, spaghetti sauce, english muffins, scones, yeast rolls, chex mix, cookie dough, lime cremora, etc. I had difficulty with hamburger buns and naan bread. I know that food items from scratch are better for us as we control the ingredients. Time is always a factor as I am working full time. I am trying to prepare items ahead of time and then freeze it. Any frugal fails that you remedied? Any advice appreciated.

Coffee has increased in price by several dollars in the last few months. I am a coffee snob and can only drink coffee of Starbucks quality. I don’t like the taste of Maxwell House or Folgers. I used the buy the green coffee beans from a small coffee supplier in Wisconsin and roast the beans. Now those beans are as much as Starbucks already roasted coffee. Also, I have tried the Kirkland brand of French Roast coffee and it wasn’t a brand name with the Kirkland label. Both Sam’s Club and Costco have quit carrying the Starbucks French roast. They were my cheapest source. Now, I am ordering Starbucks French roast through Amazon or purchasing at Walmart at $23 for only 28 oz. Has anyone found a good price or source for quality dark roast coffee?

As costs are going higher, I am continually thinking of ways to counter act this. I am constantly adjusting the thermostat depending on whether I get too cool. Hot already in New Orleans. I am getting better at watching my grocery receipts as I was charged for two items at Walmart but only purchased one. Also, I am trying to use washable containers to store food in the freezer instead of buying freezer bags and utilizing or freezing any leftovers. Food combinations may get interesting. Omelets are a great way of incorporating leftovers. In addition, I have taken up pants and blue jeans as I have been losing weight instead of buying new ones. Also, I try to repair most things if it can be glued or sewn like my under bed fabric storage containers. What are some ways that you are trying to do to combat this economy?