Will I be eating for the next 4 months?

Let me preface this by telling you about my feelings on grocery shopping, which by the way, are all positive. It may quite possibly be the root of why I would like to work in the food industry. Growing up, I spent Sunday mornings going grocery shopping with my father. At school, I do it at least once a week and whenever I'm home I seem to be constantly finding reasons to go and buy something. I try and go to obscure ones like the Asian one in Lawrence or Greek one in Lowell, or wherever that one is. It's always been a place to de-stress.

My first experience grocery shopping in London was anything but a de-stresser. In fact, I called my mother in the middle of it to announce I would NOT be eating for the next 4 months. Mind you, I did walk in with a list, which I had carefully thought about assuming what they may or may not have and what I typically make. Please keep in mind the following: 1. I love to cook 2. I typically use a lot of fresh vegetables and eat a lot of fruit 3. I'm lactose intolerant so constantly checking and reading every label. I checked the communal cupboard, equipped with some spices, cooking spray, sauces, ziplock bags, etc, anything that students from the past left behind. So, my list included seemingly simple things: Yogurt, Granola Bars, Popcorn, Snacks, Soy Nuggets (I know, not simple), Veggie Burgers, Frozen Shrimp, Veggies, Tea, Lemon Juice, etc.

I tried to keep it simple...and the grocery store was anything but simple. Within a minute of walking in, I was lost. As I went through aisle by aisle, instead of my usual contentness and, I guess, joy, each aisle led to more and more stress. I had no idea where to find anything, what to get and what I was going to eat for the next month. And why are on earth are eggs not refrigerator?

So after about an hour, I had finally given up. Exhausted, Frustrated, Confused and Concerned, I was ready to go home. I had found a variety of food that wasn't on my list to replace those that were and some, although very little, that were. Fresh fruit, yogurt (which by the way comes in unbelievable flavors--rhubarb is so far my favorite), pre-made stir fry veggies and A LOT of soup. So I guess I'll find a way to get by, sub my usual lifestyle, although I do love a good bowl of soup any day,...or maybe a trip to Whole Foods, which is apparently a 10 minute walk away : )

So in conclusion, suggestions on food are VERY MUCH welcome!
Off to Paris for the weekend, where I'm sure I'll have no problem finding something to eat!