Reply #45: Not financially, no.

[Tsiyu]

No, I am not one of the millionaires.

This economy means that even simple things - like car insurance for kids and a new vacuum cleaner and plumbing repairs - can't be acquired because that money must pay for gas. This economy means that jobs don't pay well, and training and/or degrees don't guarantee commensurate wages or career choices.

Good friends, DU and not having a mortgage or car payment help me cope.

Tricks I've learned: Be adaptable.

Make do with less.
Keep the oil and the furnace filters changed.
Wash your hands.
Don't watch TV.
Learn how to grow something.
Laugh when you can. It's good medicine.

My electric bill was only $60 this month. It will climb to around $200 a month this winter. I will (crossing fingers) not have it as bad as some. My main concern is random power outages. They are rare here: Tennessee has a great Electric COOP system that WORKS for the people of Tennessee, but given this year's unpredictable slant, I think alternative indoor heat is a good idea. I'm investigating, but a lot of options are "out" because of the potential high gas prices.

Interesting questions. :hi: