The economy is in a downward spiral. We all know it. We read about it, see it on the newscasts, hear about it at every turn. Gas prices are astronomical, raising children is becoming more difficult with all of their 'needs' and I believe the summertime is an apparent time to notice it.

I would love to hear from everyone out there with kiddies. Do you feel the pinch more in Summertime? Many kids are in camp (god willing we can afford it), but that means so much more money flying out of our pockets. Paying for camp, after camp activities, weekend activities, dinners, lunches, BBQs, and those crazy expensive suntan lotions...wishful thinking for a summer 'vacation'!

I have two kids which doubles all costs. I am lucky enough to work from home so aftercare and babysitters/nannies are not part of our expense sheet.  But how do you deal with one income? How do you deal with 2 incomes that STILL don't cover the outlays? How is this going to get better? WHEN is this going to get better? We hope that the election and a new President will make a quick impact, but is that reasonable to think?

It's truly scary. We all work so hard and want to give everything we have to our offspring, but these days its nearly impossible to make ends meet and have anything left over to 'enjoy'!

Tell me how YOU are feeling the pinch and how you are dealing with it.

THANKS!