We’ve been whisked away by the Arizona heat for the past couple weeks. Definitely don’t plan a trip to Arizona in March if you don’t enjoy perfect weather, zero humidity, and constant sunshine. It’s been nothing but gorgeous.
This is the first state I’ve really seen an economic shift where you’d likely need to make more than $50,000 a year to live comfortably. “Surviving” is possible under 50k, sure, but probably not “thriving.” There’s still a million ways to save money all around the state, but just looking at housing and gas alone, it’s pricey.
Stocking up on food for the week proved MUCH cheaper than I could have imagined. We shopped at Safeway multiple times in a seven day period getting hundreds of dollars of groceries for maybe $50 tops. Score $5 just for signing up for the rewards program, and a bunch of welcome discounts. Then, start a free 14-day trial through Fresh Pass (also on the app) and you’ll get another free $5 and a new round of coupons! Just cancel before the free trial is up and you won’t owe a penny!
We also placed a pick up order with Flashfood for some bakery and pantry items. Flashfood works with DashMart to provide discounted grocery items that would otherwise get discarded. If you join now, you can even get $5 off your first $10 order. That’s like multiple grocery items for free!
We found cheap produce and snacks at Superstition Market, as well as Market On The Move. Didn’t think it was possible to say delicious, fresh, and cheap all in one sentence to describe produce? Superstition Market will prove you wrong. I mean, come on guys, two containers or strawberries for $1.50? That’s unheard of for berries! And you’ll be completely blown away after trying Market On The Move for $10. I’m talking an entire trunk of groceries loaded into your car for ten single dollars. We were literally swimming in tomatoes, so I had to try and use up as many as I could before I ultimately ended up passing them onto a local friend. Check out this 4-Ingredient Rice recipe. It’s simple, filling, and flavorful! Pair a pot of this rice with grilled chicken and your belly will be thanking you!
Then top off that goodness with all the free fruit we found around the neighborhoods. We were practically swimming in fruit at little to no cost. Ragen had the “time of her life,” as she puts it, preparing her very first fruit salad. We also made fresh squeezed orange juice, homemade lemonade, and lemon bread. Oh, and lots of smoothies too!
The freebies just keep on flowing during this trip with complimentary room upgrades, Dairy Queen ice cream cones, a beautiful petrified wood souvenir, and a generous visit to the idea Museum. Have you ever heard of this place? It’s a complete oasis for children’s imaginations. Does your son love cars? Idea museum has an entire room dedicated to that. Is your daughter always asking to make crafts? Idea Museum provides at least a dozen stations for creating. Are your children the outdoorsy types? Idea Museum has a beautifully painted courtyard with tricycles just for them! Our three hour visit was truly a highlight during our one week stay near Mesa, Arizona.
I would say our family has been equally adventurous and exhausted in the state of Arizona. We’re seeing breathtaking sights, while battling terrible attitudes. We’re trying to fuel our bodies well, but at the same time, dealing with lots of allergies and tummy issues. We’re staying at some dreamy places, and also missing the comforts of home. This family road trip is all about flexibility. I feel like an actual spaghetti noodle, and I know my husband and children sometimes do too.
I’m reminded of the redeeming work God has done to grow Travis and I in marriage and parenthood. We recreated all our honeymoon memories in Tuscon, Arizona with two extra little bodies in tow. Just look at this seven year difference.
As always, thanks for keeping up with our traveling family. God is good. He continues to provide in mysterious ways, even despite our tired spirits.
See you on the road!
