$9976.95

[hellziggy]

$9976.95

Seems like a lot of money, doesn't it?
That number was me & hellbob's taxable income in 1996. It is only $831.41 a month. That is more than twice what we had made the year before.

We may have more expenses now with house payments, and car payments, and things like car insurance, but we also have so many things that were unaffordable luxuries back then. We don't need to worry that we don't have the money to buy groceries for the week. Hell, we don't have to go to the foodshelves just so that we can eat. Let me tell you, that can be a humbling experience, having to admit that you can't even afford to eat.

I look back now and I have a hard time believing that we ever survived on so little, but it makes me appreciate what we do have so much more.

Comments

[genevra.livejournal.com]

You guys have come a long way. Yay you!!! And you can *donate* platelets now, instead of selling plasma for grocery money.

[freyjakj.livejournal.com]

Yep - You know I know what you are saying. Going though these things is humbling, but it also really puts it into perspective for the rest of one's life.

[scubagrrl.livejournal.com]

1996 wasn't that long ago- good job, you two! :) I don't remember the figures, but I look back sometimes when we get those statements from Social Security and think, we used to live on *how* much?

Of course, one of those years Shawn ate pancakes for an entire semester, with mac-n-cheese as a special treat once in a while.

[hellbob.livejournal.com]

We didn't survive. Remember how, in the days before caller ID we rarely answered the phone but it would ring all day? Angry creditors are persistent...