Couldn't have said it better myself

ShannonR — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 05:18:10 GMT

Great article! This is so on point. Coming from the side of 'broke'- maxed out on credit in June of last year, made some poor financial moves and had a reduction in income. I am also grateful for the experience as I've read others posting. This is the worst and the greatest thing to ever happen to me. I can't believe how much money I was flushing down the toilet every month just by not looking for deals or keeping an eye on my phone plan, cutting out TV and watching my favorite shows on the computer, making breakfast at home, using the Entertainment Book or Restaurant.com for meals or entertainment.

Where I see my friendships being affected is when I've shared with a friend my situation and then they invite me to do something that costs money- even a cheap bite to eat or a movie. These were all things that I loved to do in the past and it's difficult for me to turn these things down. I do turn them down but I feel bad. With the situation I'm in now, I would prefer getting together to share a home-cooked meal or playing cards- something indoors, still fun, but doesn't cost ANY $$. Spending $5- right now is a big deal. That's where I find my disconnect. I'm not jealous of any of my friends who are doing well and I don't feel they should keep their vacations and trips to themselves- I just think to maintain the friendship in these tough economic times, friends need to work on doing things that are free.

Sometimes the best things in life are free :)

Family

Couldn't have said it better myself