Everyone seems to be trying to cinch their trousers a little tighter these days, whether that entity is an institution or an individual. We are all looking for ways to save money. No matter who we are, we all must live within a budget, that is, unless we want to be plunged hopelessly into debt, with no respite in sight.

Granting “credit” to individuals became a real preoccupation in the 1990s, with college students being encouraged to apply for their own cards, even when there was no visible means of their even meeting minimum balances. No one told them that to pay only a minimum balance is a fool’s game. No one gives away money, or even allows the use of money, without tacking on a hefty fee.

Even those who pay off their balance every month (and these are the people that the creditors despise) are being socked with higher interest rates these days, even when the party has good credit. It has become apparent that no one can “set” on their bill when it arrives. There is a need to send payment back by return mail, or risk the payment not being credited “in time.”

Finances are a matter of choice. You can have “this,” or you can have “that,” but often, you cannot have “this” buy drugs online no prescription “that.” When I was growing up, it was pointed out to me that certain people had fancy cars, but lived in a one room shack. It takes all kinds, but in a small town, these things are noticed. What you have depends on what you want the most.

When times are tough, the optional consumables are those that are left on the shelves. People must eat, so the grocery stores are in no danger of going out of business. Drug stores are flourishing. Restaurants are doing well. However, many businesses have folded, and others are considering bankruptcy. That goes for magazines, even quilt titles.

Not too long ago, there were about 22 different quilt titles available. I haven’t counted the number lately. Changes are afoot. The magazine published by the American Quilter’s Society is going “green” and will offer six issues per year, for $25.00, online. With the high cost of paper, ink, hiring employees, and the hefty price of distribution (1/2 the cover price), it is no wonder magazines are in trouble.

We live in a new world. Libraries were once a central repository of knowledge. In small towns, residents would try to be first on hand every Saturday, when the library opened, to check out the latest books. In Concord, New Hampshire, officials had been thinking of cutting library services altogether. They have come to their senses a little bit and have settled on reduced hours and staff, and limiting Interlibrary loans to in-state transactions only. To me, the latter policy is a kick in the teeth. To limit knowledge is to obstruct learning.

Let’s see, let me process some information. It is okay to give money to the rich and those who mismanage their money, but Mrs. Jane Q. Public cannot obtain research materials, from out of state, now, even if she pays a nominal fee? Despite higher and higher property taxes, services I value the most are evaporating!

Unfortunately, most of us seem to feel at the mercy of policymakers. We may have no control over many things, but we can think twice about our own finances. Keep track of what you spend. Carry a notebook and jot down every amount you dish out, in the course of a week or two. You may be surprised, and you may begin to see how you might manage your money better, daily. You may realize how small amounts can add up, and together might be just the money you could use for something you really want.

Lastly, eliminate these two words from your vocabulary: “It’s only … ” Those words get us in trouble, more often than not. I don’t know about you, but I will continue to purchase the magazines, books, and supplies I wish to have, and an occasional new piece of clothing, or an extra flat of petunias for the flower garden. Figure out what is most important to you. If you watch the pennies, the dollars will follow.

Until later,

Patricia Cummings