I didn’t do a “sales and deals” roundup last weekend, as I was out of town.
Because the Monroe County, Mich., grocery market falls between Toledo and Detroit, and the supermarket sales and coupon distributions overlap in strange ways in our community, I’ve decided to point out overall trends every week than to write detailed shopping lists that bloggers in other markets can easily do.
At first glace, the coupon selection looks to be pretty good. I counted three coupon books in my home delivery edition of The Monroe Evening News.
Here’s what to look for:
- Picnic food. Memorial Day weekend results in huge promotions on burgers, hot dogs, buns, sliced cheese, pop, condiments and anything that can be considered picnic food. Surprisingly enough, this list also includes potluck-friendly pantry items such as gelatin and cake mix. These sales are usually worth stocking up on for graduation parties and picnics later in the summer.
- Patriotic decor. Flag-waving red white and blue party supplies and decorations are applicable to many occasions throughout the year – not just patriotic holidays but also Boy Scout and Girl Scout celebrations, military sendoff or welcome home parties, baseball tailgate parties or NASCAR tailgate parties. BUT!!! You will find the best and most stocked-up selections just before Memorial Day.
- First aid supplies, bug spray, sunscreen. You know you’ll need this stuff for outdoor activities. Check your inventory, and replace the old or used-up products.
- Camping supplies. I admit: I haven’t been camping in about six years. That being said, we do use the camping chairs, ice chest and other items for tailgate parties and picnics. Do you need to replace any of your outdoor gear? You may be happier focusing your search on the better selections and inventory you’ll see in May than waiting for clearance pricing on gear that doesn’t suit your needs.
- Decorative solar lights. These have become standard camping gear in addition to yard decor. But did you also think of using these for disaster supplies if the power goes out? Severe weather season has started in Michigan
