We should not complain about anything, because we’re lucky to have a home (for now, and so what if the bank really owns 80% of it) We have not had to put groceries on a credit card, yet Seen others doing it. We live a very modest lifestyle. Everything we do is family orientated and mostly free. We aren’t saving, and he has no disability insurance, none provide by work, and can’t afford to pick up a plan on our own. He has to invest in his own 401K, they don’t put anything in it. His investment is minimal, because that’s all we can afford. We have a car loan, again, a modest car, and we put him through college together, so we have student loans. No other debt. So tell me, why he, who has a college degree, and 20 years experience in his line of work, actually making what appears to be a decent wage, and myself , with a 2 year certificate degree are living on the edge of destruction? Because in one years time, as the gas prices escalated, everything went up, and now we just about can manage. We make too much money to qualify for anything, and because a quarter of the pay are taxes (which ironically go out to help others in need, and for those not in need at all. ) For weeks we have tried to figure out what changes we could make. I thought of going back to work, but no openings in day care, waiting lists galore, and it costs so much, it would not be worth it after I paid taxes, gas, and daycare. Previously, I did work, while my parents watched the kids, but my mother passed away, and my dad can’t handle it on his own. I’m looking for a night time or weekend job. he’s trying to find a different job, maybe pick up another part time job. but until then, if then, what?

Of all years, his company is not giving a cost of living raise. They won’t cooperate with him picking up a car pool.

We’re not alone. Others are finding it difficult to afford decent housing, no heath care coverage, can’t afford to heat their homes in winter. Middle Class.

So I thought, just don't sit and complain, be proactive. I'm home during the day for now maybe I can do something. I called my local representatives office, and was told there isn't anything I could do. I even volunteered my time and skills for free to do whatever, and was turned away. I have written to officials, on a variety of issues, I just get an automated response. So does it really matter?

Right now we’re making it. But I’m scared. So, the plan of action if the gas prices go up, next step is getting rid of the internet, then cable, then long distance (which btw all are the basic cheapest plans) After that, we would sell the home, which will probably be when the bubble bursts and we‘ll not be able to pay off the mortgage, and move back to a rental or move in with my dad and wait it out. This sounds so sad.

When the gas hits $5.00 gallon, will we all just go ahead and keep pumping so we can get to work, and I guess just starve and freeze? Lose all that we worked for?

I’m new here….just looking for things I can do to make a difference.