My backyard. Well maybe not exactly in my back yard... but too close. This whole economy has taken a big step in the wrong direction. Anyone who thinks that it's not that bad must live in a shell on a far away island. Restaurants are closing, food is becoming more expensive and gas... don't get me started!

I actually sold my car and got one with better gas milage. Not only is my monthly payment 1/3 less but I can use regular gas instead of premium too. I love it!

Walking through the grocery store was a reminder of how great coupons are. It is definately hard to find the time to use coupons when you are working, being a parent and just living life, but they are too great to pass up. There's nothing like the feeling of getting something for a huge discount, or free, especially when it's food. I remember when I started using coupons, I'd have family over and they thought I was the biggest money waster because I always had all of the newly released convenience foods and normally multiples of them... finally someone actually asked me about it and I explained that the best coupons were for new products and that I used them at a store that doubles the coupon and it was all free!

Even when I don't have the time to use coupons as I should I still shop the loss leaders, spagetti sauce for $1, pasta for .33, yes, I'm there loading up!

Hope you all are hanging in there. I think we're in for a ride with the real estate market, gas and food for a while... and yes the stock market too! Remember to call up you creditors and ask for a lower interest rate and also remember that nothing last forever!