Freaking Groceries

I just came back from the grocery store and I am thoroughly disgusted. First of all, you should know, I love grocery shopping. It's one of my favorite things to do. I prefer to do it without my five year old in tow, but what can you do? Daddy's working today so Matty and I were on a grocery mission together. Now, to prepare for my trip to Hannaford (that's my store) I always go over the online circular with a fine tooth comb and determine what's on sale. I then make my list on an excel spreadsheet that is separated by sections so the list is organized in the same order as the store.
Then, I do a second review to determine if I have any corresponding coupons or special offers. I usually save about $10 a week in coupons, so I think it's worth it. Once I have given the list the final review, I head to the store, ready for some fun. (I am what you might call, a grocery geek)

So, based on what I've just told you, why would I be disgusted? Why? Because I swear to god, the price of everything just keeps going up and up and up. Those of you who read this blog know that I am trying to reduce my cholesterol. In order to do that, I have to buy fresh foods, primarily lean protein, fresh veggies, dairy etc. Of course, that stuff is the most expensive. The price of vegetables is insane. I buy a lot of frozen veggies, but ya know they don't freeze lettuce, tomatoes or cukes so you have to buy them fresh(and cause their delicious) Unfortunately, if the Parkers want to have salad with dinner this week, we may need to take out a second mortgage on the house.
What pisses me off is the fact that I think they are just jacking up the prices because they can. I saw prices going up about 6 months ago as a result of rising fuel costs but it continues to climb despite the fact that fuel prices have gone down by 40%. What the hell is that? What really fries me is the fact that if I want to eat crap, I can probably do that pretty cheaply. I can eat hamburger helper, mac and cheese and hot pockets for half of what I currently spend on groceries. Of course, we'll pay for that in increased premiums and copays when we all start pushing maximum density and develop all sorts of weight related issues.
Boy am I bitter or what?
So, I guess I better clip more coupons so I can afford to be healthy.
No other choice.
Have a great weekend
Enjoy Greek Yogurt!