Thoughts on the economy.

Before you read this, you should know I had a long discussion with an old friend last night about the state of our economy and what we will be facing in the near future. This post will reflect that discussion and my general feelings on the subject. You may or may not continue to read at this point. You Were Warned.

I went to bed relatively early last night, maybe around 8 or so. I had been in bed far before 8, just relaxing, watching football and reading my book. I had been yawning since 6 and so I finally gave up, shut out the light and snuggled into my warm and cozy bed.

The phone rang a few minutes later, just as I was entering the twilight phase of sleep. I recognized the phone sound but had no idea what day/time/life I was in. It was a dear friend from high school, "Arc." Arc and I talked about my single-handed attempt to revive the retail industry on Friday, mutual friends and getting together over Christmas for pizza and beer.

Then he talked about the economy. I'm not a pessimist by nature, but the economy scares me more than I'm often willing to admit publicly. After years of saving for retirement with minimal 'match' by my employers, I saved a decent amount. Not enough, mind you, for anything other than someday, but enough. Recently I opened my statement.

Yes, I know I should not have. I KNOW.

After my eyes adjusted to a figure I've not seen on my statement in, let's say, seven years or so, I began to feel dry heaves forming in the pit of my stomach. It was only after some time with my head on the cold porcelain side of my toilet that I realized the most important thing: I'm not retiring anytime soon.

That was the only good news I could find in all of this.

When he began speaking of the economy, the various issues that cannot/will not be fixed quickly, it was clear to me that I needed to develop my own economic plan for the next few years. I've always been consciencous of saving for retirement but now I feel even more pressed to save more.

So don't be surprised if I become even more frugal in the coming months. I'm beginning to think that me growing my own garden and stocking my freezer was only step one in this process. Now it is time to get those dollars screaming before they leave my wallet.