Sandy

Commerce

My new budget

I have a pretty secure job, but it doesn't pay much, so I add to my income by tutoring at home. I took home the same income in 2007 and 2008; previously, I took home about 5% more each year. Of course, that unchanged income wasn't worth as much in 2008 as it was in 2007, and it will probably be worth less in 2009. I've stopped taking taxis, even if it means I'm late; I've noticed the subways are fuller on off hours. I can't remember the last time I spent more than $10 in a restaurant; I'm embarrassed to say I occasionally eat in McDonald's, which is awfully full of equally embarrassed, well-dressed people. My grocery bill is lower; I’m buying fewer packaged foods and less meat. I’ve cut my acupuncture sessions, to the detriment of my asthma. I'm still making my bills, but there's no extra for fun, and nothing left over at the end of the month. I know many people have lost their jobs, and I'm lucky to have one, but I always feel anxious. I really want to work for myself, but now it doesn’t look possible. Hold on, and hope for change.

125th Street and Broadway