If any of you remember the late 70's early 80's when interest for a house was 16% to 18%.

Food and gas went up too. I use to be able to go to the store and spend $50 a week and that was for three in daipers, two on formal, a case of beer, and food for the whole week (breakfast, lunch and Dinner).

We made it then and we are going to make it now. Just sit down with everyone in the house and all try and cut spending or saving.

Even the little ones can help, if you explain in their words and don't scare them. Teach them how to brush their teeth with the water off, turn the lights off when they leave a room, take care of the things they have so they last longer, take quick showers, etc.

We will all make it a better place if we all work together. Help were you can.

Remember it's an election year. Express your views in whatever way you feel comfortable. You can contact your elected officials (and candidates) even from your PC. It never hurts to remind politicians again and again and again the concerns of the everyday people. The top brass of the oil companies only have one vote too.

I'm not being naive about politics. I just feel the politicians work for me too.

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Buy local. Save the jobs in your community.

As most of you have already expressed, I am concerned about gas prices and about the effect that has on other financial items. We have never really driven a lot, but have cut back even more. We've instituted "no gas" days (vehicle gas!!!) where we ride our bikes to and from work. As far as other things go, we just watch our pennies and make changes when necessary.