Liz and I went to Costco the other day, each with our youngest child in tow, to shop together and split some of the plus size ingredients. I have to say, we were quite the sight to be seen in the parking lot, standing at our trunks, splitting our bounty. We forgot to bring grocery bags (which of course makes the task that much more organized) and were dividing up the loose items by the handful — bags of potatoes, garlic, apples, spinach, grape tomatoes and pears — and tearing staples like cheese (which conveniently comes in two packages), sausage links and Canadian bacon with our car keys, since neither of us had a pocket knife on hand.
This frenzied scene came after a comical time strolling (or rather running) down the aisles of the store, tossing items in our carts while chasing our energetic boys. We were thankful for the store samples, which enticed our kids to take a break and taste-test mini cups of Progresso soup and corn muffins. This gave our legs a rest and provided a moment to survey what we had thrown into the cart.
We managed to squeeze in an ever-so-brief conversation about what we should buy, what we could share and the kinds of meals we were hoping to make that week. Since Liz and I often make an enormous vegetable soup together at this time of year, we had our eye on the fresh veggies and containers of organic chicken stock. Liz was also on the lookout for chicken and shrimp to use for her cooking date Monday, when she and a friend would be grilling salad toppers to store in the fridge for healthy weekday protein fixes.
With only a minor debacle at the checkout line, when Liz’s bottle of wine shattered on the floor, we placed all our shared items on the conveyor cart and watched the savings add up. As we were wheeling the overfilled carts through the parking lot, grabbing our kids by their coat sleeves, we pondered whether we’d dare bring the kids with us again. But as they giggled and smiled their way to the car, it was obvious they had a blast. It was a rewarding outing for all of us. And now, Liz and I are set to cook with friends for the week to come.
Fun the whole way around! Well, except for the wine spill – I usually count on my kids to do that for me. I’m still giggling about the cutting of the sausages 🙂
It was an experience we will always remember especially when are little ones are bigger- and yes will probably do it again!!
After an event like this, a glass of wine is surely rewarded!