Two year olds and grocery stores

I hate grocery shopping with a passion. I'm overwhelmed by all the options and I always end up way too much that I wasn't supposed to get and not nearly enough of what I was supposed to get. DH took over the job long ago because the bill was always too high when I went. But, I'm working from home now and have "flexibility." Besides, we only needed a few things for dinners that could be cooked in the microwave while we're waiting for the new stove to arrive. As it turns out, with a little thought and creativity, there a number of meals that can be made without a stove - I think I got ingredients for all of them. That is largely because of my delightful shopping companion, who is two-and-three-quarters. She felt compelled to fill up the empty cart and she didn't really much care with what. Her choices ranged from apples to chocolate pudding. Some of it I was secretly tickled about - I love chocolate milk and rarely indulge. How can you go wrong with nachos? All in all, it was a completely delightful day. Here are my tips for shopping with a little Lou Who who is no more than 2:

• Go in the morning - there aren't as many people, which means fewer obstacles when racing down the aisles.
• Skip the list - you won't be able to look at it anyway.
• Bring extra money - it's very hard to say no to the excitement generated over cinnamon graham crackers and blueberry muffins.
• Be open to new experiences - 2yos have a different perspective on the store - they are at eye level with whole shelves of food you've been missing.
• For once it's a good idea to go just a little bit hungry - you will likley be buying some ready to eat snacks that will have to be opened as soon as the trip is done.
• Don't forget the quarters - there's nothing like the thrill of getting a bouncy ball at the end of the trip. Just don't hand it over until you've gotten in the car.

Here's our list of meals:

Baked potatoes with prepackaged shredded chicken and bacon and canned chile

Frozen chicken parmesan with a side of couscous

Frozen spare ribs with a side of instant mashed potatoes (or minute rice)

Clam chowder and bread bowls

Dinty Moore Beef Stew and french bread

I have since discovered that it is possible to cook pasta in the microwave, although I haven't tried it yet. I have successfully cooked meatloaf in the microwave, but it's not a very popular dish in my family. It's best when you can brown it in a few minutes in an oven anyway.