Living in America

Financial hard times? Really? Where? You see, when you're raised "Mexican" like I was, you don't place too much value on the material stuff. Growing up in Odessa, TX, in the midst of the oil boom then the bust--our family always maintained a normal sense of living on the south side of town. Oh yes, I remember when my dad, who eventually became VP of his company, received a monetary raise and my mom splurged on packets of Shake 'n Bake--not a $1,400 wastebasket like Merrill Lynch CEO, John Thain--although I do see the temptation. (I think Mr. Thain is compensating for something else--if you know what I mean--and I think you do)

Did I miss out on much? The latest fashion trends? The "cool" Trapper Keeper notebooks with Paula Abdul flashing her perfect smile while wearing a leopard top wasn't missed much. And Today, on the verge of America's financial collapse, I read the headlines about families marching forward on suicide pacts, people finding themselves deeper in desperate debt with no where to turn, all while CEO after CEO--after receiving bailout money--give themselves bonuses and expensive gifts all while scheduling their vacations.

And that brings me to Ernie Bjorkman, a 36 year TV veteran who was a news anchor in Denver, CO who was recently fired due to cuts. This guy is taking it with great stride and is now a veterinary technician--taking an 80% pay cut. Now, good 'ol Ernie came across sincere when he said he'd make it through and was looking forward to his new life, but his wife, Mrs. Bjorkman looked liked an evil diva about to fall apart as she revealed not being able to buy a $300 pair of boots when ever she wanted. I think Mrs. Bjorkman might need some Shake 'n Bake relief right about now, cause those $400 dollar steak meals are a thing of the past--unless Ernie rips into a cat that swallowed a golden canary.

You'll often hear me complain about my family and every once in a while you might read a story or two about how I wished I wasn't Mexican when I was smaller--but I guess when it all comes down to it--I'm grateful. I've learned to adjust to spending less, putting a pot of beans on and calling it breakfast, lunch and dinner. So here it is, I'm glad to have been raised Mexican and I raise my bean burrito to you all and say,"cheers!"

p.s. What things are you making due without? Has the economy's status had an impact on your lifestyle? What's the one thing you miss the most?