Shopping 101

This one is especially for Tita! For my birthday, you gave me a shopping cart. I wanted you to know that I figured out this shopping thing and have it down to an art. Here's what I've learned- my own Shopping 101:



Always be prepared to go shopping at a moment's notice. As always, keep essentials stocked in the bottom of the cart for safe-keeping. Basketballs and other sports equipment always qualify as "essentials."


Always have a list and refer to it often. Stop often as you walk through the aisles so people can comment on how adorable you are, and what a big helper you must be. Look at the list again, then proceed. Do not forget to forget about the list when you pass the snacks and cookies aisle.


Unload the cart in priority order. Carbs, like bagels, will naturally go first. Then you can add on the granola so the cashier thinks you watch what you eat. Let Mami unload the cookies you've swiped when she gets to the cashier. Sneaky, but effective!


Take one last look at the aisle signs to see if there is a temptation you've overlooked. Don't worry about the customer behind you- one flash of a smile and you get the "adorable" and "big helper" comments again. Great stalling technique as you try and grab one last bag of M&Ms before the cashier rings up the total.

Load the bags into the car, always reaching for the lighter ones first. Then, stop suddenly and claim that you're too little. Mami and Papi handle the rest!

Thank you for the cart. Mami seems to think it has made her shopping time with me a whole lot easier for her and more entertaining for me. Well, she definitely got the entertaining part right!