..Grocery Shopping..

Wanting to lose that baby weight with me? Shop smart! If you have time, plan your meals in advance. Make a list of things you need before you go to the grocery store. Eat before you go too, because you will be less likely to purchase something you would indulge in if your stomach is full.

Shop the perimeter of the store!! You don't have to go through every aisle of the grocery store. I always start with fresh fruits and vegetables and stock up!! Mom's eat on the go most of the time, what is faster then an apple, nectarine or bag of carrots?

Then hit up some whole wheat bread, and old fashioned oatmeal in bulk. Then I head around to pick out my protein, which usually is freshly sliced turkey, chicken breast, Ground turkey, and lean flank steak. My husband and I grill a bunch chicken breast and keep it in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week. Same with sweet potatoes. After I have my protein, I head over to dairy, low fat string cheese, carbsmart yogurt/Greek yogurt, skim milk/soy milk, fat free cottage cheese. I do however go down one aisle.. to the frozen vegetables!! Steamables are fab! Quick for those busy nights. You got your chicken breast, sweet potato and steamable. Heat it up and you got a meal! So shopping around the outside of the store is smart. You don't even have the chance to walk by the soda, treats and unwanted calories. Think Fresh and you'll be eating smart. Avoid eating out as much as possible! My husband and I really don't like to eat out, but we do enjoy times spent with friends out on a dinner date. I don't look at it as a diet. That's usually the mistake that people make is they tell me that I'm always on a diet.. now there is truth in that but its not a "diet" to me its just eating smart. I found this awesome grocery list and meal planning sheet from a friends blog. I love it and it helps for quick planning. Shop healthy and be happy!!

Download the grocery list here: www.designspongeonline.com/2010/01/diy-project-kates-grocery-planner.html

I promise you'll love it!