List your top 5 grocery store items.

The 5 Essentials I Always Grab at the Grocery Store

When it comes to grocery shopping, I like to keep things simple and focus on the essentials that sustain my day-to-day routine. Here are the top five items that always make it into my cart, along with why they’re so important to me.

1. Milk

Coffee is a daily ritual in my household, and we love our coffee plain—no sugar, just the comforting creaminess of milk. To make sure we never face the catastrophe of a coffee-less morning, we stock up on milk religiously. It’s not just for coffee, though; milk often finds its way into cooking or a late-night glass for a quick protein fix.

2. Bottled Water

Hydration is non-negotiable, and since I can’t always rely on the tap water, bottled water is a must. We go through a lot of it, so this is always on the top of the list. Staying hydrated isn’t just about drinking enough; it’s about ensuring the quality of what you drink, which is why this is a no-brainer for me.

3. Bread (in Various Forms)

Bread is the ultimate staple. Whether it’s a soft loaf for sandwiches, crusty rolls for dinner, or even pita for dipping, bread is always versatile. It can be a meal on its own or the perfect companion to soups, spreads, and everything in between. It’s comforting and filling, making it an essential item I always reach for.

4. Energy Drink

Some days call for an extra kick of energy, and an energy drink is my go-to for those moments. Whether I’m tackling a busy day or need a mid-afternoon boost, it’s my reliable pick-me-up. It’s not an everyday indulgence, but when I need it, it’s there.

5. Eggs

Adding eggs to the list feels like the natural complement to the other four essentials. Eggs are the ultimate multi-tasker in the kitchen: they’re packed with protein, quick to prepare, and incredibly versatile. From a simple scrambled egg breakfast to adding richness in baking or acting as a binding agent in recipes, eggs tie everything together. They’re also cost-effective and long-lasting in the fridge, making them a practical choice.

Wrapping It Up

These five items—milk, bottled water, bread, energy drinks, and eggs—are the backbone of my grocery list. They reflect a balance of practicality, convenience, and nourishment, ensuring that my household stays fueled, hydrated, and ready for whatever the day brings. ….ok, ok…sometimes I slip in a chocolate as well to spoil myself when I deserved it. What are your grocery essentials? Let me know in the comments!

©<Jurgens Pieterse. All rights reserved. 2024

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Your life without a computer: what does it look like?

A life without computers? Impossible? You’re giving away your age, my young friend. I grew up in the heyday when none of these fancy gadgets existed. It’s not a dream from the stone age for me but a lived reality!

A life without computers was filled with the textured feeling and smell of a new book in your hands. Books were like the e-readers of their time, but without a screen.

There was the excitement of waiting for a newspaper to arrive at your doorstep. We actually had to go out to buy groceries and other items. Shopping was a social activity where people gathered to touch, feel, and taste products before buying them.

We could still remember our way to an address or figure out how to get to an end destination with a map. We had to fold them up and stuff them in our pockets. It was like a real-life adventure every time we went somewhere.

We met in parks, gave each other real hugs and heard our friends actually laughing. When we did not like something they did we told them straight in their face. Our friendships were real…. Authentic!

It’s easy to take for granted all the conveniences and tools we have today, from smartphones to food delivery apps to e-books. But it’s also important to remember that there was a lot of charm and simplicity in life before computers.

You might see boredom and lack in a life without computers, but let me tell you it was a life of many blessings. The skills and dexterity of times gone by might be forever lost for future generations.

© Jurgens Pieterse. All rights reserved. 2024