Posted on December 5, 2025
Hey friends,
Some weeks the grocery haul feels like a victory lap. This week? It felt like an avalanche. I unloaded the bags from BJ’s and Big Y, stepped back to snap a photo… and realized our kitchen island was staging a protest. (Note to self: Christmas list just got an upgrade.)
Total spent: $465. That’s enough to feed four boys, keep the homeschool lunches rolling, and stock the freezer for whatever “emergencies” (read: growth spurts) come next. Here’s the spread — in all its overwhelming glory:
A few standouts that made this run feel like provision on steroids:
- Ground beef galore — about 18 lbs total, scattered like hidden treasure across the island. (Quick game: How many packages do you count? I’ll reveal the answer at the end — spoiler, it’s sneaky.) Perfect for tacos, chili, and those “what’s for dinner?” nights.
- 4 lb brisket chuck — destined for the smoker soon, then straight into a pot of chili when the Connecticut cold hits. Because nothing says “winter prep” like beef that braises for days.
- 6 gallons of whole milk — yes, six. Four boys + holiday baking + “milk with everything” phase = this is non-negotiable.
- Bacon, cheese sticks, and steaks — the protein dream team. Bacon for breakfast BLTs, cheese sticks for lunchbox survival, and steaks for a “treat yo’ self” date night (or family grill-out if the boys behave).
As I surveyed the counter chaos, I couldn’t help but smile — remembering the Israelites gathering manna in the wilderness. Just enough for the day, every day. Our $465 haul isn’t lavish, but it’s exactly what we need: fuel for the bodies, the lessons, and the laughter that fills this home. And in a world that screams “more,” He whispers “trust Me for tomorrow.”
So here’s to the hauls that spill over, the islands that hold it together (barely), and the God who multiplies every bag into blessing.
Now for the fun part: How many ground beef packages do you spot in that photo? (They’re camouflaged like pros.) Drop your guess in the comments — closest gets a shoutout next week!
With overflowing counters and an overflowing heart,
Mom
CT Nutritious Family Kitchen
P.S. Brisket chili recipe dropping soon — because this haul deserves a sequel. 🥩🛒
(The answer: 4 packages. You got it? You’re hired for inventory duty.)
