Every week I take our eldest child to Publix while the youngest takes his morning nap, giving Momlando some needed time off. Does 
anyone start out enjoying grocery shopping? I mean, what is there to like about fighting the crowds with a boat sized race car shopping cart in order to spend our hard earned money. But if something has to be done, you might as well add some Dad flavor to it by turning a negative into a positive. Here’s how I do it:
- Caffeinate: Start out by grabbing a latte on your way to the store. This might be helpful as you drive around to find a Publix with an available race car shopping cart, something that isn’t always available on the weekend but is a non-negotiable from your co-pilot.
- Buckle up: Once you get to the store and secure the cart of your child’s choosing, buckle them in and you’re golden. From here on out you can think of the trip as a nice stroll through the market.
- Get your stroll on: Take your time strolling down each aisle. You never know when you will see something new you might want. Part of the reason for doing the shopping is to be able to choose the products or recipes you like best.
- Make it a learning opportunity: One of my favorite parts of the outing is teaching my daughter how to pick out the produce. I hold the bag and she examines the fruit before dropping it in. She feels like she is contributing and when it comes to dinner time she will at least try the veggies.
- Find the sweets: We have to stop by the bakery to get a cookie. Probably the only reason my daughter agrees to go with me to the store.
- Finish strong: Pick a checkout lane that has at least two people ahead of you in it. You don’t want to feel rushed when placing all of your items on the conveyor belt.
Going to the store on the weekend has turned into something I look forward to doing! I don’t know when it began being a joy, but it’s part of the weekly routine that I hate to miss. On top of that, I know Momlando really appreciates the extra time in the morning.
Is there anything you do that turns a negative into a positive? We would love to hear about it!
