It's Inevitable.

At some point this summer, about 30 or 40 people from church will be hanging out in our backyard. They will be hungry, and they will be thirsty... and I love having them here.

In years past, the church cookout has always snuck up, leaving me to scurry around collecting soda, hot dogs, and chips, usually dropping a crapload of cash in the process.

Not this year, friends- THIS YEAR, I'm preparing.

Have you checked out this week's circulars? Chock full of great deals on soda and snacks.

Now usually, I keep stuff like that out of the house. I'm a perpetually struggling Weight Watchers member, and if I crack a bag of chips, it kind of disappears- into my stomach.

I'm not afraid though- I know the chips will be safe with the soda in the basement. I only go there to do laundry.

Next week at Shaw's Supermarket, 12 packs of Coke products are on sale 5/$11. Oh- and here's the rad part- buy 5, and you'll get a pound of deli meat FREE. Deli meat is a rare find in our house because it's so pricey. My husband will be psyched.

So when you cruise through this week's ads, think looooong term. Think about those inevitable phone calls from the in-laws or old college buddies with he great news that they're headed over for some chow. Just make sure they bring the beer... they don't make coupons for the good stuff. :)