Unusual things people are going without in this economy

Saw two news items recently about expenses people are doing without in these tough times - birth control pills and car insurance. Heard of any others?

Saw two news items recently about expenses people are doing without in these tough times - birth control pills and car insurance. Heard of any others?

FOOD

Because my hands are arthritic I've always wanted an electric can opener but have resisted buying one.
I think this is unusual.

Because my hands are arthritic I've always wanted an electric can opener but have resisted buying one.
I think this is unusual.

Your arthritis is in your head....trust me. lol.

I haven't had any Caviar for a week

I haven't had any Caviar for a week

Yeah, me too. Beer comes before caviar. 

I'm betting alcohol and cigarettes are coming before a lot of other things.

I'm betting alcohol and cigarettes are coming before a lot of other things.

Sad aint it.

Because my hands are arthritic I've always wanted an electric can opener but have resisted buying one.
I think this is unusual.

If you will take a shallow dish of golden raisens and cover them in gin until
the gin evaporates a small spoon full of raisens per day will help your arthritus more than celebrex without the bad side effects. siegfried schlagrule

In all seriousness, it is extremely tough at the moment

In all seriousness, it is extremely tough at the moment

Why, the economy has recovered.   At least that's what they're saying.

My bank account hasn't seen it yet.  

In all seriousness, it is extremely tough at the moment

Thanks Shaun, that's why I brought this up.

In all seriousness, it is extremely tough at the moment

Why, the economy has recovered.   At least that's what they're saying.

My bank account hasn't seen it yet.  

The last year has been bad, but the last 2 months have been the worst

I don't know how they can say the economy has recovered Mind you I am in the UK, but I think we're all in
the same boat!

I hope it doesn't affect my health but I've been forced to eat canned food instead of fresh or frozen.
This has reduced my power bill as I've turned my freezer off and also canned food comes pre-cooked.

In all seriousness, it is extremely tough at the moment

Why, the economy has recovered.  At least that's what they're saying.

My bank account hasn't seen it yet. 

It can't be, the recession is over! The economists said so: http://m.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/oct/16/long-way-go/

Friday, October 16, 2009

"If you missed the news this week, a leading group of economists announced that the recession is over. At least on paper. Although a survey by the National Association for Business Economics found that 80 percent of economists say the recession is over, few of those economists believe a recovery is right around the corner."

Actually, according to Forbes, it ended back in May of 2009: http://www.forbes.com/2009/05/04/re...-opinions-columnists-recession.html

So, go figure . . . Are we doing so well we don't realize it? All those economists couldn't be wrong, could they?

Then again, maybe that's what they were told to say.

I miss an occasional quality cigar.
Scott

I miss an occasional quality cigar.
Scott

Unemployed here, but I'm a fighter (started my own biz, although very low pay).

I personally have been mosquito bit every day from opening the windows and doing without the central air.  I rarely turn on the TV and every light in the house is out except the room I'm in. And I go without showers for sometimes  4 to 5 days at a time... EEK!  My grass completely died in the summer, and I've taken to buying top ramen by the case,  and unfortunately, I still do by my bottle every now and again to keep me sane (I used to go to the local bar 3 to 4 times a week, but now their lucky if they see me once a month. It's a good compromise buying bottom shelf liquor for 10 bucks a week, versus 250 bucks a week at the local bar (really).    I rarely drive anywhere, but when I do, it's almost like an anxiety attack because I feel like I'm learning to drive all over again.

-Never once in my life payed for cable TV.
-Always buy food by the ounce versus by the product... If it's over 20 cents per ounce, you better NEED it.  Under 10 cents an ounce is fare game.
-I have the 'emergency phone line' from the local phone company versus the standard house hold line which is much, much more cheaper, which equates to about 12 a month (plus extra fees).  I'm actually thinking about canning that altogether because callcentric.com has a VOIP line for about $2 a month!  (PM me if you want more info on that.  I currently have a $2 a month fax line, and a $4 a month 800 number for my biz).
-My cell phone bill is a 'pay-as-you-go' service, and because all my friends are on the same network, it's only a dollar a day "IF" I use it that day.   I can go for 4 months on just 30 bucks.
(cell phones are handy in case of emergency, or that potential employer calls).  (my pay per use is on att).
-Learning to bake your own bread is awesome (a current and long time hobby of mine). Flour makes bread, tortillas, pie crusts, bagels and pasta (and much more).  It's very, very cheap compared to store bought product. It just takes some time in the kitchen.
-Steel gas from the neighbors vehicles...  (of course I'm kidding).

But, in all, I've got my minimal budget down pact, and I'll be o.k just as long as I follow it.   It won't be for at least another 9 months (on my current plan), that I'll need to move in with my family and lose everything I own, if I don't have a job by then... so I still have 'some' hope.

...and BTW, I think that if we can all pitch in a dollar for a good cause (to buy an electric can opener for a good TNET friend of ours that has arthritis), carma just might pay us back....  what do you think?

I'll start it by saying that you can donate a dollar if you go to " http://www.pcb-experts.com/contact-us.html "  go to the bottom of the page and hit the 'pay now'.  If everyone donates a dollar (heck, can openers aren't that expensive), I'll take it upon myself to send him the can opener... (and if not enough donate, I'll refund  your money).   My uncle had arthritis, and it's a real pain in the rear.

Well I am not down to canned dog food sandwiches yet, but I have gone to blended scotch,rather than single malt. Actually I have seen elderly people on almost no money ,use Pard on bread(day old)for food. Just remember, a shotgun ,a rifle and a four wheel drive, this country boy wil survive. Four wheel drive is optional. I have boots and snow shoes. and a flintlock.  Maybe Monty should eat those Squirrles.

In all seriousness, it is extremely tough at the moment

Why, the economy has recovered.   At least that's what they're saying.

My bank account hasn't seen it yet.  

The last year has been bad, but the last 2 months have been the worst

I don't know how they can say the economy has recovered Mind you I am in the UK, but I think we're all in
the same boat!

No matter how hard it gets, don't sell the XP. I see a very large hoard in your future. 

In all seriousness, it is extremely tough at the moment

Why, the economy has recovered.   At least that's what they're saying.

My bank account hasn't seen it yet.  

The last year has been bad, but the last 2 months have been the worst

I don't know how they can say the economy has recovered Mind you I am in the UK, but I think we're all in
the same boat!

No matter how hard it gets, don't sell the XP. I see a very large hoard in your future. 

It won't come to that don't worry 

I have cut the cable to basic, (my kids think I am punishing them)
I have got rid of the home phone(no one called it except telemarketers)
I got rid of the home internet(my kids think they are the only ones in the world without internet may have me declared legally insane)

then the usual cut back on going places and doing things, conserve electric, buy cheaper food, etc.

I plan to stock up on deer meat this year, and have a garden in the spring.

It's a shame how RPG and cappyZ have trivialized and politicized this important subject.

It's a shame how RPG and cappyZ have trivialized and politicized this important subject.

A shame? I too am doing without. Maybe not as much as some others but all the same I am doing without some of the things I love. I agree this is an important subject. A subject that alot of people share with us. I'm sorry you are eating out of cans and I hope things get better for you very soon. If I had the money I would make sure you never had to go without ever again. I have three little girls that I hope I never see go hungry, but with things the way they are now, I don't know what tomorrow holds. I will hunt, plant, rob (if it comes to that) and yes kill to see my family fed.

But I will not let it get me down. I try to look at the bright side of everything. If that doesn't work, I will back up and punt.

I wish you Luck my friend.
Randy

HI, just a general post.  Seep Marijuana in alcohol for a week or so, then rub the effected joint with the liquid, Miraculous relief.   Also crushed leaves mixed with DMSO works.

Don Jose de La Mancha

HI, just a general post.  Seep Marijuana in alcohol for a week or so, then rub the effected joint with the liquid, Miraculous relief.   Also crushed leaves mixed with DMSO works.

Don Jose de La Mancha

Thanks Jose, this shows more promise than golden raisins soaked in gin.

RPG ,
 If I choose to feed a pig it is going to end up feeding my family 

It's a shame how RPG and cappyZ have trivialized and politicized this important subject.

A shame? I too am doing without. Maybe not as much as some others but all the same I am doing without some of the things I love. I agree this is an important subject. A subject that alot of people share with us. I'm sorry you are eating out of cans and I hope things get better for you very soon. If I had the money I would make sure you never had to go without ever again. I have three little girls that I hope I never see go hungry, but with things the way they are now, I don't know what tomorrow holds. I will hunt, plant, rob (if it comes to that) and yes kill to see my family fed.

But I will not let it get me down. I try to look at the bright side of everything. If that doesn't work, I will back up and punt.

I wish you Luck my friend.
Randy

I was beginning to emphasize with you Randy until your reference to killing(another human).
However it reminds me of Ted Turners prediction of rampant cannibalism in the future due to food shortages.

Emphasize? I really don't care what you think. I thought I was being nice and I really do hope things get better for you but if you have a problem with what I have posted, take it somewhere else. I really don't give a dam.

RPG ,
 If I choose to feed a pig it is going to end up feeding my family 

Exactly. 

Guess we need clarification before accusation.  The old saying "whatever it takes to achieve the desired result" is certainly applicable here.

I would kill for my family to eat - deer, rabbit, elk, grouse, etc, but  I didn't hear anyone say anything about killing another human and eating them.



B

Guess we need clarification before accusation.  The old saying "whatever it takes to achieve the desired result" is certainly applicable here.

I would kill for my family to eat - deer, rabbit, elk, grouse, etc, but  I didn't hear anyone say anything about killing another human and eating them.



B

RPG said he would hunt,plant and rob then "even kill" to feed his family. Obviously the killing of animals for eating is covered in his use of "hunt".
With regard to cannibalism I was ,as stated, repeating Ted Turner's forecast.
Of course the killing of another human might be necessary to prevent that person from stealing one's own cache but I don't believe this is what he meant, but to kill to rob one of food.

You said that, I didn't. That is not what I meant. 

Were eating more beans here. "
Just bought a #50 bag last week at a local elevator.  That will make a lot of  "bullet" soup.

Were eating more beans here. "
Just bought a #50 bag last week at a local elevator.  That will make a lot of  "bullet" soup.

AHA! Contributing to global warming? Don't let Gore and the rest find out or they will start dictating what we can and cannot eat...

Scott

Saw two news items recently about expenses people are doing without in these tough times - birth control pills and car insurance. Heard of any others?

this is stupid! going w/o birth control pills makes no sense.... unless youre going w/o SEX!
otherwise.... give it a little while... youll be needing to buy baby food.. which cost a whole
hell of a lot more than the pill!   

Were eating more beans here. "
Just bought a #50 bag last week at a local elevator.  That will make a lot of  "bullet" soup.

AHA! Contributing to global warming? Don't let Gore and the rest find out or they will start dictating what we can and cannot eat...

Scott

I have a methane jar for the end result ofbeans and bean soup. Just don't light a match around any jar in my nieghborhood.

uh birth control pills * -- if one does other forms of sex -- than the type that makes babies --one can do without it --- car insurance was "forced" on folks --to make sure "poor folks" --the bulk of us --had enough money to pay for "rich folks stuff" cars and medical bills --in case we wrecked into them (oh the govt benefits too --- cuz when two poor folks wreck into one another --the govt would wind up with the er bills without "forced" insurance coverage)

 

Since they pay for Viagra and that sort of stuff, they better pay for birth control pills!

B


One thing is for sure about auto insurance - as soon as they started making you have it, the costs jumped 5 fold.  The same thing applies to anything the government insists that you have, by law.  In Arizona, the state decided you had to have a certified well driller - and the costs went up tremendously. (before, an uncertified person could drill your well, and you just paid to have it inspected).  In Pennsylvania, as soon as they passed a law that all septics had to be sand mound type (unless you had 140 inches of top soil), the cost of a septic system went from about
$1500-$3000 to over $30,000 plus.

once your "forced" to have it --the "built in" gouging sets in by the powers that be.

forced insurance --is simply a way to make the vast amount of working poor ( folks who tend to have very little in the way of assets -and live hand to mouth for the most part) pay up in case of a accident via the "forced insurance"-- do not have it you wind up in jail === plain and simple --its govts way of forcing the poor to pay * otherwise -a poor working slob type wrecks a old beater car / truck into another person --they got nothing to speak of in the bank--no savings ,no bonds,no stocks what can you "collect" from em --nothing thats what --- and the medical bills --their not going to pay em --so the hospital holds you reposible for em --or writes them off as "uncollectible debt" --ie the govt eats it at tax time.---so "forced" insurance is the way to go --make them pay for insurance --or walk.

[Coin Collecting is the only hobby in the world where you can spend money and always have money left over.]

I gave up driving! Not necessarily due to the economy, I just got sick of the insurance, gas, tags/registration and the whole scam! Of course i'm a male under 25 so i'm automatically a danger on the road  My insurance was through the roof! $160.00 a month liability only! Luckily everything I need is close by, I have to arrange for transportation every now and then for certain things but i'm saving roughly 300.00 a month without a vehicle! 

I gave up driving! Not necessarily due to the economy, I just got sick of the insurance, gas, tags/registration and the whole scam! Of course i'm a male under 25 so i'm automatically a danger on the road  My insurance was through the roof! $160.00 a month liability only! Luckily everything I need is close by, I have to arrange for transportation every now and then for certain things but i'm saving roughly 300.00 a month without a vehicle! 

What you have done is admirable in breaking the vicious cycle of transport costs.

I've been paying for auto  insurance for 35 years now. Sometimes, I only have liability-the minimum. Whenever I was purchasing a vehicle with a bank loan, they require you to have full coverage. Very expensive, but I understand that the lien holder wants to protect their property until it's been paid for. The higher cost of full coverage in addition to the interest laden auto loan payments make it very hard to have money for other mundane things like rent, food, etc.
I haven't had an accident that was my fault or a ticket of any kind for over 25 years. Seems like my insurance company should pay ME or else a years free premium....
What a scam. The insurance companies know that you MUST have insurance and stick it to you.


Wonder if health care insurance is going to be just like that.
I haven't been sick or injured for over 10 years now. Don't need health insurance. Don't want it, can't afford it and DON'T want to be forced into it.

"Hi. I'm from the Government and I'm here to help...."

Scott  

A friend owns a local store with a lotto machine and says ticket sales are up when the economy is down. Go figure.

Maybe it's just me ,but here in Texas the economy is doing pretty good,I only have a few friends that lost their jobs a couple of months back but they're all working now.There's all kinds of things being built here in Austin,roads,strip centers houses,apartments and about 3-6 large condo projects being built downtown,With that about the only thing I've done without is fastfood and I don't go and see new movies or even rent them.

Produce Guy,

I'm glad to hear about the economy in your area - we need more stories like that.  Not every light at the end of the tunnel is a train!

B

Produce Guy,

I'm glad to hear about the economy in your area - we need more stories like that.  Not every light at the end of the tunnel is a train!

B

Texas was an economic miracle well before the downturn.
250,000 new jobs were created in Texas between October 2007 and October 2008, while 500,000 jobs were lost in the United States.
Texas economy created 1,615,000 jobs from 1997-2007; during the same period, Ohio lost 10,400 jobs.
Texas is home to more Fortune 500 companies (58) than any other state.
CNBC ranked Texas as “America’s Top State for Business”.

I gave up driving! Not necessarily due to the economy, I just got sick of the insurance, gas, tags/registration and the whole scam! Of course i'm a male under 25 so i'm automatically a danger on the road  My insurance was through the roof! $160.00 a month liability only! Luckily everything I need is close by, I have to arrange for transportation every now and then for certain things but i'm saving roughly 300.00 a month without a vehicle! 

What you have done is admirable in breaking the vicious cycle of transport costs.
[you forgot the cost of a rig(s) also repair, maintenance etc.if you pay 3600.oo/year for insurance,i strongly suspect that at your age, about a quarter of your income.unless your a college grad, then only one sixth your income.that relies upon your skill being in demand at this time.the world has become precarious. my father bought and paid for house while earning about six bux an hour.try that now, even given earnings increases/motivated sellers.its all going somewhere,think straight up the food chain.middle class must shrink.world upper class getting bigger.1776/quote]

Unfortunately i've been forced to go without employment.

Make no mistake I don't like working, but I like it even less when nobody wants to give me the time of day let alone hire me.

Produce Guy,

I'm glad to hear about the economy in your area - we need more stories like that.  Not every light at the end of the tunnel is a train!

B

Texas was an economic miracle well before the downturn.
250,000 new jobs were created in Texas between October 2007 and October 2008, while 500,000 jobs were lost in the United States.
Texas economy created 1,615,000 jobs from 1997-2007; during the same period, Ohio lost 10,400 jobs.
Texas is home to more Fortune 500 companies (58) than any other state.
CNBC ranked Texas as “America’s Top State for Business”.

Texas has seen very little of the tragic consequences of Government mismanagement and Coperate greed in out nation. Yep, no big changes here, but my Sister and her Beau will be unemployed when the factory making auto parts in Jackson Tennessee closes down December 2. Even those not directly touched by this blown up economy, it indirectly touches you in one form or another.

I ain't doin without nothin in this economy, cause I never had set my expectations that high, or tried to rise above my raising.  I'm makin more money now than I ever did, and I set it back and don't try to over-extend myself.  As to the illegals havin a field day, they really ain't.  And I will address that.  My wife is illegal.  So's my stepson.  Our government has a process in place to address this.  Granted it sucks, and it costs a lot of money.  Today I paid $69 to my lawyer to mail a letter.  Apparently he uses a different post office than I do.  That marchin down the street wavin Mexican flags chantin 'Si se puede' don't get it.  Try that in Mexico and see what happens.  You're in America, so get with the program, and I'll admit it sucks, but it's all we got right now.  And if y'all know folks who don't have a job during this upcoming 'holiday season', help em out.  If you got the ways and means, invite em over for supper.  I spect they'd appreciate it.

Because my hands are arthritic I've always wanted an electric can opener but have resisted buying one.
I think this is unusual.

If you are in the USA and pm me your address, I think I have one put away that I could send you.

Thanks for the offer, but it's about summer down here in South Earth so I have fresh produce.
Maybe for next winter if I can't be bothered pickling.

Because my hands are arthritic I've always wanted an electric can opener but have resisted buying one.
I think this is unusual.

If you will take a shallow dish of golden raisens and cover them in gin until
the gin evaporates a small spoon full of raisens per day will help your arthritus more than celebrex without the bad side effects. siegfried schlagrule

My right hip is extremely arthritic due to being displaced years ago when a horse fell on me...I'm going to try this today...

Hmmmmmm.  Wonder if it will work if I eat a handful of raisins and drink a gin & tonic?

Unfortunately i've been forced to go without employment.

Make no mistake I don't like working, but I like it even less when nobody wants to give me the time of day let alone hire me.

You should become more humble.
Become a waiter and beg for a living.

How to increase YOUR tips if you are in the service profession and receive tips
12 Ways Servers Can Increase Tips
by Dr. Michael Lynn, Cornell School of Hotel Administration
1. Introduce yourself by name.
2. Personalize your appearance - wear a funny tie, flower to make you stand out.
3. Kneel down next to tables.
4. Recommend appetizers, wine and other extra items to increase sales and resulting tips.
5. Smile.

6. Tell a joke or play a game with customers.

7. Touch customers.
8. Thank customers.
9. Draw a picture on the check.
10. Use credit-card tip trays.
11. Call customers by name.
12. Give customers after-dinner candy

Unfortunately i've been forced to go without employment.

Make no mistake I don't like working, but I like it even less when nobody wants to give me the time of day let alone hire me.

You should become more humble.
Become a waiter and beg for a living.

No need to, i'm well off, I just don't like to live off my savings accounts any more than is required, they won't last forever.

Don't be too proud to wash windows!

     I know a 70 year old man who makes over $100.00 a day just washing windows, (he only does first floor windows)  and all he has is a bucket and a squeegee, and only one arm.  He takes the bus to business sections of town to wash windows and then back home. (he also can not read or write)

When the going gets tough you have to reach down and find the strength to carry on. Life is tough and you just have to be tougher.

    To get through this you have to get out of your comfort zone and do what ever it takes. You have to take charge of your own destiny.

Just do it!


GG~

Im always doing my best to jump start the economy!!!
I SPEND MONEY LIKE crazzzzzy !!!   

Im always doing my best to jump start the economy!!!
I SPEND MONEY LIKE crazzzzzy !!!   

Dear Santa.....I would like.....kidding....LOL

i love you tee anything you want...ill get for you!!!!!
ALWAYS!!! loveeee you

    olepossum,

Here is just a little tip to make you feel better.

When you see someone (of any color or any race) driving around in a financed car, living in a financed house, and spending a whole lot more than is normal - they aren't doing better than you - in fact - they are probably WAY, WAY in debt, and the house of cards will eventually fall down.

I'd rather be driving by 5 year old SUV, with my 1989 pick-up truck, living on property that is fully paid for, with a cell phone that is pay-as-you-go, so there are no cell bills, but I can call 911 if I need to, and having a garden so I never have to buy vegetables, and work part-time for a rancher so we don't have to pay for beef or sheep, make a trip once a month to the "big city" to buy for the entire month (saves over $150.00 a month, buying toilet paper and Bounty and coffee and sugar - and some other items, in bulk). If I buy something with my credit card, I pay it off every month (which is a good thing since every credit card has raised my rates - my lowest now, which used to be 6.99% is 14.99%, and they never actually get to charge it).  I barter a bunch of stuff in the summer - fresh veggies for home-gathered honey, and other stuff - we always have a big garden and can and freeze for us - but there is always extra for sale and trades right up to Thanksgiving, where we are getting rid of the last of our pumpkins.  Heck, I've even traded an old violin for a wood stove.

Anyone who lives within their means are always "richer" than those who charge everything.  And you can sleep better at night.

B

If you can look at someone and say "how can they afford that when I can't" - they probably cannot afford it.

Im always doing my best to jump start the economy!!!
I SPEND MONEY LIKE crazzzzzy !!!   

Dear Santa.....I would like.....kidding....LOL

i love you tee anything you want...ill get for you!!!!!
ALWAYS!!! loveeee you

love ya right back Kelly.....is there anything better then that???  I think not....your so cool!!!

so are you tee.

  olepossum,

Here is just a little tip to make you feel better.

When you see someone (of any color or any race) driving around in a financed car, living in a financed house, and spending a whole lot more than is normal - they aren't doing better than you - in fact - they are probably WAY, WAY in debt, and the house of cards will eventually fall down.

I'd rather be driving by 5 year old SUV, with my 1989 pick-up truck, living on property that is fully paid for, with a cell phone that is pay-as-you-go, so there are no cell bills, but I can call 911 if I need to, and having a garden so I never have to buy vegetables, and work part-time for a rancher so we don't have to pay for beef or sheep, make a trip once a month to the "big city" to buy for the entire month (saves over $150.00 a month, buying toilet paper and Bounty and coffee and sugar - and some other items, in bulk). If I buy something with my credit card, I pay it off every month (which is a good thing since every credit card has raised my rates - my lowest now, which used to be 6.99% is 14.99%, and they never actually get to charge it).  I barter a bunch of stuff in the summer - fresh veggies for home-gathered honey, and other stuff - we always have a big garden and can and freeze for us - but there is always extra for sale and trades right up to Thanksgiving, where we are getting rid of the last of our pumpkins.  Heck, I've even traded an old violin for a wood stove.

Anyone who lives within their means are always "richer" than those who charge everything.  And you can sleep better at night.

B

If you can look at someone and say "how can they afford that when I can't" - they probably cannot afford it.

The jealous are troublesome to others, but a torment to themselves.  ~William Penn, Some Fruits of Solitude, 1693

I hope it doesn't affect my health but I've been forced to eat canned food instead of fresh or frozen.
This has reduced my power bill as I've turned my freezer off and also canned food comes pre-cooked.

Perhaps you can try disconnecting your computer for extended periods of time, that'll save you a bundle !

Wonder if health care insurance is going to be just like that.
I haven't been sick or injured for over 10 years now. Don't need health insurance. Don't want it, can't afford it and DON'T want to be forced into it.

"Hi. I'm from the Government and I'm here to help...."

Scott  

Ah, the supreme confidence of youth. Anyone can be cut down in their prime of life with
a stroke , a dormant hidden cancer or any one of 100's of debilitating diseases.
Driving a car or walking the dog could result in an accident requiring the need for
expensive prosthetics.

well mc gear head they aint working for less than minimum wage and washing windows they are in the meat packing plants and you dont buy the stuff they buy on less than minimum  so the theroy they work for less than we do is bullcr-p when plant is union

and when you work for nation wide chainstore you dont work for less than minimum you work for min for 6 months and leave town come back 30 days later and do it all over again 

and they dont work harder than we do they do as little as possiable unless you threaten their check trust me i worked with 30 last summer i was 10 bales of hay to their 5  so the work theroy is cr-p

it all boils down to the owners of the companys they work tax free for 6 months and go home and the company has to pay no taxes on them not much lost and a lot gained

  olepossum,

Here is just a little tip to make you feel better.

When you see someone (of any color or any race) driving around in a financed car, living in a financed house, and spending a whole lot more than is normal - they aren't doing better than you - in fact - they are probably WAY, WAY in debt, and the house of cards will eventually fall down.

I'd rather be driving by 5 year old SUV, with my 1989 pick-up truck, living on property that is fully paid for, with a cell phone that is pay-as-you-go, so there are no cell bills, but I can call 911 if I need to, and having a garden so I never have to buy vegetables, and work part-time for a rancher so we don't have to pay for beef or sheep, make a trip once a month to the "big city" to buy for the entire month (saves over $150.00 a month, buying toilet paper and Bounty and coffee and sugar - and some other items, in bulk). If I buy something with my credit card, I pay it off every month (which is a good thing since every credit card has raised my rates - my lowest now, which used to be 6.99% is 14.99%, and they never actually get to charge it).  I barter a bunch of stuff in the summer - fresh veggies for home-gathered honey, and other stuff - we always have a big garden and can and freeze for us - but there is always extra for sale and trades right up to Thanksgiving, where we are getting rid of the last of our pumpkins.  Heck, I've even traded an old violin for a wood stove.

Anyone who lives within their means are always "richer" than those who charge everything.  And you can sleep better at night.

B

If you can look at someone and say "how can they afford that when I can't" - they probably cannot afford it.

WOW!  this isnt ALWAYS THE CASE!  i choose to put most things i buy on my amex.
and i dont work... and i dont NEED to either!  I have a wonderful trust fund from my
family... and if I want to buy things... who cares how or where I GOT THE MONEY!
not everyone who gets out a chargecard is in debt over their head!   and i also choose NOT to pay off
my home... i NEED the tax write off from the interest on the loan to off set other capital gains.
so again... YOU MIGHT BE WRONG HERE!  .... just a thought! 

In all seriousness, it is extremely tough at the moment

The 10-20 million illegals are having the best time of their lives.....

Yep, working in the slaughterhouse and picking strawberries in the sun all day is REAL FUN woo-hoo!

Im in bad credit card debt, well its not bad but at my present income it will take some time to pay it off. the good thing is I went from 15k in credit card debt to about 8k in the past year and a half and got rid of about 4-5 other credit cards.  My car will be paid off this winter after 5 years so no more $600 a month payments but Im really tempted to buy a new 435hp SRT version of my SUV, you only live once right? 

Saw two news items recently about expenses people are doing without in these tough times - birth control pills and car insurance. Heard of any others?

Here you go to jail without car insurance and they impound the car.

Saw two news items recently about expenses people are doing without in these tough times - birth control pills and car insurance. Heard of any others?

Here you go to jail without car insurance and they impound the car.

but still.... lots of americans DONT have ins.  thats why its best to pay a little more on your
own ins and get "uninsured" coverage too.... otherwise you'd be F if they hit you.

Scotch and Hookers. 

Im in bad credit card debt, well its not bad but at my present income it will take some time to pay it off. the good thing is I went from 15k in credit card debt to about 8k in the past year and a half and got rid of about 4-5 other credit cards.  My car will be paid off this winter after 5 years so no more $600 a month payments but Im really tempted to buy a new 435hp SRT version of my SUV, you only live once right? 

Aaahh! Don't spoil that great progress with a huge credit purchase. Apply that $600 to your credit card debt (in addition to what you're already paying on them) and you'll be debt free in less than the year and a half it took you to go from 15k to 8k. No new car looks as good as debt-free feels!

I'm self-employed and work is slow, and will be thru the winter months. I am researching many good treasure hunting sites, but will not be able to go to far and hunt them because of gas prices. I have to put off many things that I really enjoy. I will have to stay home mostly and be an armchair treasure hunter.
Happy Trails to all of you,

Kelly,

You are correct - it is not always the case.  But - if you had to bet on it, the chances are much more likely that it is what I said, and not the case you presented.

Though, I would really have to think hard about the morals of a person who does nothing with their lives, just because their family has money, and they get money for free.

B

Kelly,

You are correct - it is not always the case.  But - if you had to bet on it, the chances are much more likely that it is what I said, and not the case you presented.

Though, I would really have to think hard about the morals of a person who does nothing with their lives, just because their family has money, and they get money for free.

B

Wow

Kelly,

You are correct - it is not always the case.  But - if you had to bet on it, the chances are much more likely that it is what I said, and not the case you presented.

Though, I would really have to think hard about the morals of a person who does nothing with their lives, just because their family has money, and they get money for free.

B

OK AGAIN WITH THE STEREOTYPES!
ill be happy to list ALL the nonprofit organizations i work
for.....  FOR FREE !  all thankless volunteer jobs... for people
who dont have as much as i do... and BTW i dont live ABOVE my
means... i have the smallest home... and i dont drive 100k suv's...
but i guess i could... and IM STILL A GREAT PERSON!  im very blessed and
i have NEVER done anything to shame my family or make anyone feel
badly for having less than i do.  

Kelly,

You are correct - it is not always the case.  But - if you had to bet on it, the chances are much more likely that it is what I said, and not the case you presented.

Though, I would really have to think hard about the morals of a person who does nothing with their lives, just because their family has money, and they get money for free.

B

Wow

yuppers!  and youve been to my house!  i need a jet for my runway... its empty right now!!

Kelly,

My, my, we are taking my opinion personal, aren't we?

If you are doing something worthwhile with your life, I am obviously not talking about you.  So, you are rich, you live off your family and you spend your time helping others - good for you!

But I know many more people, in my many years, that are not rich, don't live off mommy and daddy or grandparents, but work.  They have mortgages because they HAVE to, they finance their cars because they HAVE to, to drive to their jobs.  Sorry, that's not a stereo type, its the real world.

I find it funny that you immediately jumped up to say what a do-gooder you are.  You want the "other" stereotype.  That all rich people help out in the world - and its just not that way.   Sorry to tell you , but many "unrich" people go out of their way for others also.  The point is:  you cannot live outside your means forever.  Not if you are rich, not if you are not-so-rich, not if you are poor.  You just cannot live outside of your means, and many, many people do.

I believe the subject, specifically, that I was speaking of, is the person who lives way beyond their means - way beyond what they can afford.
In fact, my exact words were "driving around in a financed car, living in a financed house, and spending a whole lot more than is normal - they aren't doing better than you - in fact - they are probably WAY, WAY in debt, and the house of cards will eventually fall down".  So, you see, I am not stereotyping anyone in particular - except that particular type of lifestyle.

And, I will stick to what I said.  Most of the people who have answered this, on this thread, have said things like, I cannot afford it, so I don't want it, the economy is slow, but I'm paying things off slowly, and that is great.


But there are thousands who are in the toilet, right now, because they have to have everything, and they have to have it right now, but don't ever save for a rainy day - well, the rainy days are here, and a large percentage of people that I see, every single day, are having to sell their cars, or turn them in,  - in other words, got all caught up in the "bubble" in our society, that just burst last year.  And it isn't just here, it is all around the country.  Do you think the government would be talking about bailing out all these places and people if everyone, or at least the majority, had lived within their means???  Come on now.

If you try to live within your means, and save for rainy days, the hurt would be much less than it is.  And that includes companies and individuals.

If you don't, and you find yourself financing everything - not just the necessities, you are in for a fall, and, its hard to get sleep when you don't know where the next mortgage payment money is coming from, or how you are going to buy your kids their next pair of shoes.

Someplace, along the line, a lot of people came to the conclusion that they absolutely NEED a plasma TV, they absolutely NEED a Wii, they absolutely NEED a cellphone, they absolutely NEED to have the latest and greatest in computers, or Xboxes.  They absolutely NEED to spend thousands on their children for Christmas, they absolutely NEED to go spend thousands on their weddings, and thousands more on their honeymoons, and have to have 3000 square foot houses for their first homes.  Boy, I watch some of these property shows, and for the life of me, I cannot understand how nonchalent some people are about spending 500,000 bucks on their first home, just because they have "been approved for that much money".  Makes me shiver to think about being in debt that much.  And they get double mortgages and what not.

I could not ever live that way.  (and I've been playing the real estate game for a loooong time.)

B

Kelly,

You are correct - it is not always the case.  But - if you had to bet on it, the chances are much more likely that it is what I said, and not the case you presented.

Though, I would really have to think hard about the morals of a person who does nothing with their lives, just because their family has money, and they get money for free.

B

OK AGAIN WITH THE STEREOTYPES!
ill be happy to list ALL the nonprofit organizations i work
for.....  FOR FREE !  all thankless volunteer jobs... for people
who dont have as much as i do... and BTW i dont live ABOVE my
means... i have the smallest home... and i dont drive 100k suv's...
but i guess i could... and IM STILL A GREAT PERSON!  im very blessed and
i have NEVER done anything to shame my family or make anyone feel
badly for having less than i do.  

IDK about very blessed, i'd keep it at blessed I mean im way sexier than your BF, cooler too, ask Ma.  I bet he doesnt have a 351c 4bbl in his garage either and I bet he drinks wine.

I've been paying for auto  insurance for 35 years now. Sometimes, I only have liability-the minimum. Whenever I was purchasing a vehicle with a bank loan, they require you to have full coverage. Very expensive, but I understand that the lien holder wants to protect their property until it's been paid for. The higher cost of full coverage in addition to the interest laden auto loan payments make it very hard to have money for other mundane things like rent, food, etc.
I haven't had an accident that was my fault or a ticket of any kind for over 25 years. Seems like my insurance company should pay ME or else a years free premium....
What a scam. The insurance companies know that you MUST have insurance and stick it to you.


Wonder if health care insurance is going to be just like that.
I haven't been sick or injured for over 10 years now. Don't need health insurance. Don't want it, can't afford it and DON'T want to be forced into it.

"Hi. I'm from the Government and I'm here to help...."

Scott  

I paid for my own insurance for about 4 years at 250 a month which was a "great deal" thats 3k a year and I never used it once, that was 12k for nothing.  Health insurance was originally intended to be used in case of catastrophic injury not for every time you get a cold and run to the doctor like it is today which is what drive up prices.  Two years ago I got rid of it since then I have spent 65 bucks for a checkup and like 12 bucks for a prescription.  Im now covered through my work but in those 2 years I saved 6k, well $5,933?    I think if everyone stopped taking med's every time they sneezed and stopped hitting the ER everytime their toe hurt we would all save a fortune on insurance.  At least make some insurance breaks for people who dont use it like the safe driver program some auto insurers use.  If someone doesnt smoke, exercises, and is in good shape why should they pay the same as the person who smokes and drinks everyday, eats fast food, and watches TV?

That's how the insurance companies do it.

Everyone is in a group of some type - either age, sex, type of car, previous history or health or driving record, even if you had an accident that is not your fault, and, of course, statistics.  Now, obviously, there are some places that are better than others.

Wait until you are sixty+, and try to get insurance on your own when you've had a medical condition.  If you stopped smoking 5 years ago, you can get insurance. (at a more reasonable rate) than you can if you had a stroke 5 years ago.  Even AARP the "nobody is rejected" will reject you for life insurance. (or drop you if you already have it).

That is one thing I wish they would/could change.

But, it is the same with many other things that the population uses.  Electric rates are based on averages, telephone, internet - all those things are charged as the market will bear.  Cell phone deposits are based on past experiences (as are their contracts).

When there is a major shift in services that go unpaid for, the balances are spread out among the rest - so, even if you and I pay bills, every month, on time, the rates can go up if there starts to be a significant percentage that defaults. (to keep their profit margin).

Yep, it sucks sometimes, but, that's the way it is in a lot of cases.

B

PS - you were talking about not having any accidents, etc - I know what you are saying - not to mention - the car you are driving might be getting older, so, replacement value is decreased, but, they don't care.

Beth You, ORO and I are going to get along just fine. Get to cracking on your Spanish

Don Jose de La Mancha

One other thing that I forgot to mention about full coverage auto insurance; your rates are also dictated by WHERE you live. They always ask, "Where is the vehicle "garaged" at night?" Seems that if you live in an affluent neighborhood, you pay more. They say that it is based on vandalism statistics. You know the slum viz a viz Easy Street. Yeah, Right....

Scott

PS. Funny how it is when you don't have alot of money how educated you get about where EVERY penny goes....

That's a very good point, AU24K,

I would have assume that there are more valuables to steal in an affluent neighborhood than in one that is more slum area.  I'm not sure that the slum areas are packed with diamonds and nice cars as much as an affluent neighborhood - but, I don't know.  I also would think that maybe, there might be older cars (not older as in classic), and not as many people would have full coverage.

But, again - it's also based on how many miles you drive, whether you use it for work or pleasure - anything the insurance companies can come up with to charge you more.

B

Though, I would really have to think hard about the morals of a person who does nothing with their lives, just because their family has money, and they get money for free.

But that's the absolute top of the food chain in the USA. Having money without having to work for it. Nobody cares how you got rich, it's being rich that matters.

If you personally want to question someone's morals just because they didn't have to work for their money go ahead, but the majority of society doesn't bother to.

Lasivian,

Maybe you misunderstood what I meant.  I don't care if you have money or where you got it.  But, I would expect every human being, to contribute to society, in one way or another.

It might just be by paying their fair share of taxes and/or doing charity work, or the like.

The questioning of morals comes to mind when you have it all and do absolutely nothing with your life. 

B

Lasivian,

Maybe you misunderstood what I meant.  I don't care if you have money or where you got it.  But, I would expect every human being, to contribute to society, in one way or another.

It might just be by paying their fair share of taxes and/or doing charity work, or the like.

The questioning of morals comes to mind when you have it all and do absolutely nothing with your life. 

B

She pays taxes every time she buys something, property tax, utility bills, etc.

sounds like your just in the mood to throw stones.

No, not in the mood to throw stones - at anybody.

It is my opinion - and, regardless of what some might think, I have the right to express it.

If you or anyone else thinks it is ok to be a lump in society - so be it - me---not so much.

Apparently, morals are more important to some people than others.

B

As you can see, us British are doing just fine


http://www.rightsidenews.com/200912...-courtesy-of-british-taxpayers.html

Every year we harvest deer for familys that need the food. This year the demand is way up. I also plan on putting 3-4 deer in my freezer as well to save on beef.
 Its hard times for sure and if you can  help anyone you would be surprised what just a little means when you have none.
TnMountains

I think it is great TnMountains, that you donate game.

Some states have stopped that practice, apparently thinking its too much of a pain to certify the meat.  Pennsylvania used to accept game, and, new roadkills, as long as it was killed and cleaned within a certain time period. (also, in Pa., if you hit a deer with your vehicle, you can legally keep it for yourself, you just have to report it).

About 5 years ago, we had just such an incident, and the carcass was refused, with the explanation that they didn't have the resources to certify the meat.

What a waste, to be sure.  The car that hit it was directly in front of us, and when we called the agency, the animal was still alive (broke its back).
The guy came to the scene, shot it, and drug it off the road.  About a week later, a special truck had to pick it up. (we were not allowed to take it, since we had not hit it - but I'd do that whole thing differently today).

In the west, here - killing an animal by mistake is not the big issue - its the wasting of meat.  A 25 dollar fine for killing an animal accidentally (like a doe instead of a buck), you get another license, and they take the meat.  Leave the meat and - you are going to jail - and it is a felony.


It wasn't that many years ago that if it wasn't for deer, our protein intake would have been sadly lacking.  And we never kill anything that we will not eat.  (no killing things just to put them up on a wall, or just to kill them) - Sorry, but I just lied - the exception is poisonous snakes, especially if they are near my house.

B

There's really not much I would cut back on even though I work and make around 30,000-34,000 a year and this year I will be short of making 30,000 I have seen my medical insurance and deductables increase so less take home pay for me. I have it figured out for 2010 what I would pay thru out the year on medical cost $6,500 out-of-pocket in all. But right now that is minimum I have a flex account that is 2,000 for next year anything over that comes out of my pocket. <<<Most likely 2,000 ain't $#% and I'm still going to pay out the ass on medical cost. So much for buying a house next year hell I don't make enough money after taxes and medical insurance to afford a mortgage.

The only thing i've been cutting back on is eating expensive. I usually buy the cheap 1.00 dinner plates at walmart.

its not the insurance that bothers me if i get sick i go to the dr and get fixxed and yes get a bill and pay it slowly but what i am saying is the illegals that come here get free this free that pay no taxes and live and drive better than me for six months go back to thier countries for 30 days and come back and do it all over again change thier names and repeat i just try and get a job to supprt my family and the american dream and cant do it be cause the illegals have the better majority of the good paying jobs due to the owners not having to pay and employeer fees on them and leave the country with 10 -20 thousand dollars tax free and unpayed for vehicles and all the goodies in life paid for with credit cards that are obtained by one or more of thier 18 identitieswe try and get a head in life and take 4 steps back damn what a rip off