The Butcher, The Baker...

A long time ago, I lived in Ireland.  I loved the fact that I rarely went to the grocery store.  I went to the butcher and the fruit and veg stand and I had a milk delivery.

It is hard to replicate that in our big stores and BJ bulk shopping.  But, as a single person now (versus when I shopped and cooked or a man and a 12 yr old), it is LOVELY to be in an area where I can get back to this.  Less than a mile from my house is a cheese shop, a butcher, and a produce stand that is all local all the time.  There is a decent grocery store too but....

Today, I went across the city to an Irish butcher (love him)  and grabbed dinner for tonight and tomorrow.  It really IS perfect for portion control. The pork chop?  Exactly 4 oz. with a lean cut.  Cost me 2 dollars!  I grabbed a 4.2 oz of sirloin for dinner tomorrow (I try to eat red meat once a week as I tend to be anemic) while I watch the opening ceremonies.  Butcher man gave me a choice of rubs if I wanted...yes please!  So I have a nice pepper rubbed steak fo $3.75.

From there, I hit up a Syrian/Lebanese bakery.  They make sugar free, fat free pita there that is 120 cal for the entire pita and only 12 carbs.  I first heard about them in a local WW meeting.  To die for.  Grabbed some just rolled stuffed grape leaves for lunch today and tomorrow (six bucks).  The produce guy was next...grabbed asparagus, some fruit and avicado, along with local little red potato and tomato.  All for 15 dollars!

So I got all local, fresh stuff, for way less than I would spend at the grocery store and I know the portions are the exact right size!

It takes a bit of extra time to shop....but it is wonderful:)