Diana D'Abruzzo

The grocery bill each week was $110, but there was never a shortage of food deep inside Diana D’Abruzzo’s kitchen cabinets and freezer. So the Pilot staffer decided to see how long she could survive by eating just the foods already in her kitchen. Over the next few weeks, or perhaps months, Diana will blog about her experience digging through that frozen pit of chicken breasts, turkey bacon and corn on the cobs – until the last Popsicle, the last can of tuna, is eaten. (Disclaimer: She’s still allowed to buy perishables such as milk, bread, fruit, fresh vegetables and eggs.)

Category: Food

Shopping Day!

May 08

7:53 PM

With the final article of this experiment set to print this Sunday -- and with next to nothing in my kitchen -- I set out for Harris Teeter this morning, ready to do some damage.

I was going to shop like I hadn't shopped since 2007. I was going to go down those forbidden aisles, browse the frozen food section, ponder the purchase of a can or two. And I was tickled.

I bought a lot -- and it comfortably fit in my cabinet and freezer when I returned home (I swear I saw my freezer break out into a smile when I filled it with Lean Cuisines, salmon burgers, waffles and more). I spent a bit more than my old weekly bill -- $145 -- but I don't think that will be the norm, as I bought a few basics I had been without for a long time (microwave popcorn! peanut butter! Wheat Thins!).

But you'd be proud to know I was a cautious shopper. I picked up a box of oatmeal and put it down when I remembered my boyfriend's mom had given us a bunch this past weekend. I pondered the soups, but remembered I still have two in my cabinet: Until they're gone, I'm not buying more. I crazily even considered buying more Popsicles! Whaaat? As you may recall, I still have a box left and I never eat them and why would I buy more? It's the lure of the grocery shopping experience, I suppose.

Never more!

Link to post