Pay Cuts Sharpen Family's Focus
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Spenders Become Savers to Protect Their Home and Children
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
One in a Series on How the Recession is Touching Lives.
The Coughlin family lives in the tidy Ashburn community of Broadlands. Stacey, 32, a bubbly, athletic-looking woman who is director of business development at a construction company, is a self-described shopaholic who likes Juicy Couture. Michael, 34, an easygoing guy who paints cars for Ted Britt Ford, has a taste for barbecue and the latest electronic gadgets. With a combined salary in the mid-$100,000s, they didn't worry much about saving for the future. But over the past four months, the economic downturn has hit them unexpectedly and they are confronting an ongoing series of choices. Recently they sat down together and reassessed their spending. What can they live without? What can be trimmed? How will they do it without traumatizing Hannah, 8, and Jackson, 3. They sat in their kitchen on a drizzly evening and talked about how it feels to suddenly be frugal.
The first hit came at New Year's.
Stacey: In late December we had just redecorated the entire front of our house, and the day after we finished, Michael got a pay cut. A 10 percent cut.
Michael: I've never gotten a pay cut before; I've never been fired. I was shocked . . .
Stacey: He took it hard.
Michael: . . . because I was supposed to get a raise, but ended up taking a pay cut instead.
Stacey: It took Michael's pay cut for us to go, 'Okay, this is scary -- when will it end?' We figured we have enough savings to support ourselves for three months, but no longer. We make a good living and we spend just about all of it.
The twice-a-month maid service was the first thing to go. The couple also consolidated their credit cards into one monthly bill.
Stacey: I put the rest of the cards upstairs and just vowed not to use any of them ever again. All of a sudden there's a lot of guilt associated with spending.
Instead of buying whatever she wants, Stacey now asks herself if she really needs the item; often, the answer is no. Eating out has become a rarity. Stacey and Michael have started clipping coupons and household shopping now involves multiple stores to take advantage of bargains.
Stacey: We know now to buy dish detergent at Target because it's cheaper than the grocery store. We never thought about these things before.
Photo Gallery
Forced to Make Changes in the New Economy
In the Coughlin home, Michael fixes dinner for son, Jackson, 3, Hannah, 8, and his wife, Stacey. (Tracy A. Woodward)
As the Coughlin family heads upstairs after dinner, Hannah, 8, decides to practice her karate. (Tracy A. Woodward)
Michael: We don't buy as much snacks for the kids. We buy more fruit.
In January, their property assessment came in: their house was worth much less than what they paid in 2007. And the choice-making continued. They decided to skip their summer vacation. And they reduced their generosity.
Stacey: Before, I would just give things to friends -- curtains we don't need, kids' clothes. Now we've hoarded everything extra and we're having a big yard sale. Hey, it's a couple of hundred bucks.
Michael: And hosting a dinner party -- that would cost $300 to $400. An $80 roast, wine, flowers -- all in, it was three to four hundred.
Stacey: Recently we had a cocktail party and asked everyone to bring a bottle of wine or two, and we served hors d'oeuvres. Some of our friends started asking more if they could bring things when they heard about Michael's job. It made me feel nice, that our friends cared and they weren't taking advantage.
In February, instead of paying someone $1,500 to paint the inside of their house, Stacey and Michael spent $200 on paint and did it themselves. But certain expenses are unavoidable. Day care is a necessity, but the $2,000 a month has made them think twice about having a third child. As did another expense.
Michael: I got a vasectomy, and we looked into getting it reversed. It costs $12,000. And insurance definitely wouldn't pay for it. We've thought about it a lot; I always wanted three kids. But the bottom line is, even if I did get it, we couldn't afford to have another baby.
Stacey: He would have to stay home; he'd have to quit his job. And Hannah does tae kwon do after school; she would have to quit.
Hannah is almost 9, and Stacey says she's a little self-conscious about her teeth, which need braces. They cost $4,000, and even if she gets them now there is a chance she'll need them again in a few years. So they've decided to put it off.
Hannah has also had to give up some smaller indulgences.
Stacey: It used to be, she'd be bored on a Saturday and she'd say, "Let's go get our nails done," and I'd say okay. Now, I'll sometimes say no -- or we'll go, but we'll only do our fingers, not our toes.
She used to do gymnastics, which she still wants to do. And she wants to do ice skating. But the cost of these extracurricular activities is so expensive that we can only afford to do the one. Even that one is a strain. Every time she tests for a belt, every six weeks, it's $45, and sparring equipment is $200.
At first she was kind of disappointed, but she's been pretty good about it. This is just a teeny, tiny blip in her world. I think there is something beautiful in a child being naive, and at the age of 8 it's not necessary to think about the value of a dollar. I don't know if years of this affecting her will come back to haunt her. It's too early to judge.
Still, putting limits on their children has not been easy.
Stacey: I really want the children to see more of the world. That's been one of the hardest things, not being able to get them out of their Ashburn bubble.
Michael: We want the kids to see D.C. And I thought, the zoo -- that's a cheap thing to do. Well we went, and by the time we paid for pizza, two cups of coffee, hot chocolate and parking, it came to $100. We're not going to D.C. again.
As their home's value has plummeted -- from $515,000 to $367,000 -- so have others in this tree-lined neighborhood near the Dulles Toll Road. But the neighbors are silent.
Stacey: No one else talks about it. It's like nothing's changed for them. They still go on vacations all the time.
Michael: They don't bring up anything to do with it.
Stacey: Everyone puts on airs. I call this the neighborhood of the Stepford Wives. Everyone's keeping up with the Joneses; no one wants to say, "We're in trouble."
Michael: There's so much money in Ashburn. But the restaurants around here are much less crowded than they were before. And one of our neighbors moved out in the middle of the night. They were both at AOL, and they were let go, six months apart. Still, when you look around you and you don't see anything, it doesn't seem like anybody's changed.
Stacey: But I guess people would say that about us.
Sometimes they think about moving somewhere less expensive, perhaps Virginia Beach or North Carolina. But they're not sure they could rent out the house right now. Like everyone else they know, they are underwater on their house, with more mortgage than equity, and they can't afford to sell it. So they keep making choices. In March, they traded in their Acura sport-utility for a Honda Accord, which consumes half the gas. And they have started to think about the downturn's deeper effects on how they live their lives.
Michael: I hope that it means we start saving and not being wasteful with the money.
Stacey: We have two college educations to pay for. And we'd like to retire someday.
Michael: When we were first together we didn't have much; we would eat hot dogs and beans every night.
Stacey: We did, and we were happy little campers.
Michael: And then we worked and worked to earn more money. And now it's basically going to get down to that. He looks down at the prawns he is preparing for dinner and laughs. As I put shrimp on a skewer! But they're frozen. A year ago, they would have been fresh.
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Your Thoughts...
Are you happy that the school year is over?
Comments:
Note: LoudounExtra.com does not necessarily agree with comments posted below — responsibility lies with the relevant reader alone. Peruse our reader agreement and privacy policy
Is there no public transportation in Loudon County?
Posted by pang5 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 3:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)
LESS SPENDING MEANS LESS CHANCE FOR ECONOMIC REVIVING
Posted by qiaoxiaoxin (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 4:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Wow !! Hanna might have to give up her Tae-Kwan-Do. Oh my Gawd!! It appears this family is living way beyond their means,finally realizing that , like failed conglomerates, they fell into the spending trap without thinking about their future. Now it's payback time. No tears shed here!! A maid, $2000.00/month child care? Who are these people?
Posted by GeorgeSSC (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 4:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Is everyone in Ashburn, Manassas, Leesburg, etc. like this? That's where every person lives who has been featured in these "humbled, former big spender" stories.
Also, "Glad my friends weren't trying to take advantage?" When you invite friends over, you are availing them of your hospitality. There is a fine line between frugality and just being a cheap beeyotch.
Posted by robert7ii (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 4:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"There's so much money in Ashburn." LOL.
Honey, if a person has money, he doesn't choose to live in Ashburn. That's why you think an exotic trip into scary ol' "DC" is a trip to the ZOO. ROTFL.
Posted by robert7ii (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 4:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)
A third child? World's population is going to touch 9 Billion in year 2050 with today's population growth rate. People will be fighting for water and food and a shelter to live if this population explosion continues. I don't think this couple's story is worth telling, let alone through a reputed media like WashingtonPost. They don't have a clue about how to live frugally.
Posted by skasturi (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 5:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I almost choked on my coffee when I read this. The "recession" has barely touched the Northern Virginia bubble, and these people are crying about frozen shrimp! Waaa Waaa Waaa!
Posted by doomsnight666 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 5:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"by the time we paid for pizza, two cups of coffee, hot chocolate and parking, it came to $100"
It is hard for a family to spend $100 at the zoo. Save by bringing your own food. To say you are not going to DC again makes you sound like a hick, and I don't think you are one.
Fruit for the kids instead of junk food? You should be doing that anyway.
That is a pretty fancy house for $100K a year. Are they house poor?
How much in savings do they have? That is an important part of their financial situation. If you have a lot saved, you can be a little more frivolous in your spending. Since they are managing credit card dept, I guess they have zero, which is pretty irresponsible, in my opinion.
I think this family is on the right track.
Another in a series of articles in which the Post needs to find better victims.
Posted by Bitter_Bill (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 6:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Explain to me how a family that earns in the mid-100K has only three months of expenses saved up?
This family ask itself how they can start living like the rest of us without traumatizing their kids. Hmm... let me think... I suppose most families that do not have maid service and who do not take their 8 yr olds to get their nails done, probably do have traumatized children. The maid herself is probably raising serial killers... The pretense is unbelievable!
You want to live a life of instant gratification - your money, go ahead. But don't insult the rest of us by pretending that your children *need* it.
Here's how us 'traumatized' people live.. we have friends over all the time, but we cook at home. We do pot-lucks in the park on weekends. We go to the zoo and yes, spend a $100, but that because we don't get our nails done- we keep 'em clean and apply nail polish. We don't buy detergent from Target - we go to Wal-Mart or Costco.
Perhaps this newspaper should publish the Ant and the Grasshopper story instead of trying to pass off self-entitled folks as commoners. Apologies if it hurts, but its the truth...
Posted by amitdaga (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 6:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)
As each class spend less, global spending and growth fall, FED should convince, everything will be okay,
Metin H.,Ankara / Turkey
Posted by mhassu (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 6:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)
If you are poor and find yourself with a free $5 at the end of the week, you think yourself well off.
If you are living in a $500,000 house and have to give up maid service and lots of little extras, you consider yourself a bit poorer.
Everything is relative. Knocking this family is useless, as so many of us are in various stages of "make do or do without" and it behooves none of us to put others down.
Posted by limpscomb (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 7:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Looks like they are learning, but it is a bit disconcerting to see how the expectations in our society have gotten so far out of whack over the past decade. It does make one wince to hear a mother worrying about permanent trauma to her children because the 9 year old can't have so many manicures or do multiple expensive activities. Kids mostly need love and not much stuff - in fact, getting as much as they want and not learning about the value of money and how to say "no" to their impulses is going to create a lot more trauma later in their lives than some frugality now.
The things we take for granted now - my first manicure was for my wedding at 19 - my first hair highlighting was at age 33, after having my third child - a day out when I was a kid meant a picnic (no one ate out), and a vacation was either to a relative or in connection with my dad's work. And I had a happy, and untraumatized childhood.
Working in the mortgage business, our own family went through financial trauma over the past several years - I didn't worry at all about whether the (5) kids would feel deprived, but used it as an opportunity to teach them about what really counts in life - they've done fine. In a world where so many people struggle to even feed and clothe their children, we must remember that the poorest of us live like kings compared to many.
Posted by mmrader1 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 7:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)
If I didn't see the photo I wouldn't believe this family is for real. Get a grip, people and stop the whine festival. I'm so sure...
Posted by hatsat (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 7:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)
We can learn by asking our older generation how they coped during the Great Depression and what that really entailed. Recently the WaPo had a fashion article about recessionista jeans - jeans ripped, etc, etc, but trendy, especially now that our economy is in the toilet. Some of these jeans cost more than $100! I can look at this in a light hearted way, but I can also look at this in a serious way, through the eyes of my parents who were from poor families who made it through the depression and to better lives for their family. My mom and her sisters were excited to receive an ORANGE or two in their Christmas stockings. My grandmother learned how to sew and was able to make her girls beautiful clothes out of remnants, etc, so that they would not have to wear old, ripped clothing. Many of us are so fortunate and are oblivious to what it means to be destitute. Through some of our actions and attitudes we trivialize the plight of those who struggle every day.
I am not going to tell anyone else who to live as I know I am not by any means perfect myself. I think we have an opportunity to be introspective about our lifestyles. I think this is a time for us to renew our connections to our older generation and listen to the stories and wisdom they can offer us during this challenging time.
Posted by momof2 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 7:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I live in Loudoun CO and in December, my wife was laid off. I don't make anywhere near the mid-100's or even the 100's. Yet, I have two cars, a motorcycle, pay my house note on time etc. and my son will go to college with no aid/grants. Welcome to the real world.
Posted by mitlen (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 7:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The dad, Michael, paints cars at a Ford dealership for a living. I think he should be grateful that he wasn't replaced by an illegal alien years ago.
Posted by expat1 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 7:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Having struggled as a single mother and still struggling in a lousy job market in this state, it would be easy to make negative remarks. But I understand. You bust your butt to improve your life and have the American Dream and poof! gone. With all the "free" money for the last decade, people were living beyond their means. But hey - we're humans and do dumb things that make no sense sometimes.
The guy was fortunate, really, with a 10 percent pay cut and not losing his job. They'll have to make adjustments but they'll survive. There are still perks they can eliminate and will have to sit tight like everyone else.
Posted by itsagreatday1 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 7:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)
PS .. the cars and motorcycle are mine ... paid off. You gotta have a budget and live by it.
Posted by mitlen (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 7:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
OH my goodness! get Hannah's nails done! Are you kidding me! I just don't get people. I would NEVER NEVER take an 8 year old to get her nails done. No wonder kids are they way they are now. I go to stores and the kids are screaming and having fits and hitting there parents if they don't get there way. I know what my mom and dad would have done if I did that...I would have been knocked into next week(one of my dad's fav. sayings) No he was not an abuser he loved us girls alot but he demanded respect and he got it! I am 52 years old and I have done my own nails since I was 15. Kids are spoiled beyond belief. These people are out of touch with the real world. This blows me away. GET REAL
PEOPLE! I don't feel sorry for them one bit. Go cry on someone eles's sholder!
Posted by ukgirl (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 7:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Ridiculous!Excuse me but I can't feel sorry for two people who are fretting over having to cancel their maid service and the possiblity of their daughter having to give up TKD. This article is not a good representation of the struggles some people are really having. The fact is this couple, like so many others, tried to compete with their neighbors and it's come back to bite them in the arse.
Posted by razzledazzle (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I don't think these folks were living extravagant lifestyles and it doesn't sound like they're particularly in trouble.
It's relatively admirable that they have 3 months of savings because even though that's probably the minimum advised for most families, most families DON'T have that.
They're not penny pinchers by any stretch but they do have a modest safety net for their family.
Other than the fixed costs of the house (likely bought under the now false expectation of higher incomes and higher home values) and childcare (hello, childcare is damn expensive), it seems like they can easily cut back on the creature comforts of suburbia and build a bigger safety net for themselves just in case their financial situation gets worse.
Posted by AJohn1 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
You want me to feel sorry for this people? Come on! Many of us living in NoVa don't make anywhere near the salary this family makes. We don't have maids. We don't live beyond our means. This is not a true representation of what is really going on in America today.
Posted by cafm70 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This guy needs some more Tats and hairgel.
Posted by ratsmoker (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)
A couple of thoughts... a combined income of mid-100's means they each earn $60-75k. Take one income out of the equation and they are in over their heads in a blink.
A sudden illness, a business failure, divorce - any of these would take this couple down, fast and hard.
This to me is a classic example of how the steroid culture of the late '90's and '00's took Amerika down the wrong path. What did they need to fancy new house for? Wall St. and the banks made cheap money accessible to the masses and then raked in the profits, while encouraging the masses to go buy more stuff at the new mall they just built.
This is what is wrong with Amerika. Wake up.
Posted by kblundell (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
They have a combined salary of $100K and 2 kids, yet she buys Juicy Couture! A Juicy warm-up suit is like $300+. Are you kidding me?! They were living waaaayyyy beyond their means.
Posted by shelley.shepherd (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Thanks for sharing what you're family is going through. I apologize for all the negative comments from other posters. Your family is hit by this recession but maybe not so hard as many others...We have been dealing with this for awhile now...(I've lost my job but am working freelance as needed, my husband is working three jobs, and we have two kids in college and one in high school) but this is a slice of the recession. It is all relative to where you are and where you have been. We have been trying to live frugally all along, sometimes successfully, sometimes not. I think that kids are not really deprived as long as their parents are adapting to change optimistically and keeping it in perspective. Making sure there is still an emphasis on family time (not things) is a priority. And these parents are trying to do that. We are all in the same boat, but we just have different ticket costs!
Posted by lanz2 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)
b
Posted by areidenbaugh (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This family represents a lot of families in Northern Virginia. It's a wake-up call for us all. Lots of couples pay an arm and a leg for daycare! It's refreshing to see this family playing together, eating together and happy!
Posted by Majolica (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Boo friggen whoo.
Posted by alc0f7 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)
um, Michael, some news for you....those "fresh shrimp" were frozen all along...the vast majority of shrimp we buy are either frozen or previously frozen...
great example of the problem...this guy was fooled was something as simple as a "fresh shrimp" label
our issue is not the bit heartless corporations, it's people like this that can't think or make appropriate choices...they are enamored with shiny things
Posted by heatmiser (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The very definition of "self absorbed".
Posted by dingus3 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Seems like this family (like a lot of American families) is getting the much needed economic reality check. I should think that this publication could find better people to interview, what with the fact that there are a lot of people faring much worse than a 10% pay cut in their salary.
Posted by zackool (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)
What bunch of dills....The father of 2 mentions that he had a vasectomy, and now the cost for a reversal of a vasectomy costs $12,000 - but said that they always wanted three kids. Why did they get the vasectomy in the first place then?
Jeez.
Posted by michaeljanis (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)
So who is "poor" enough to be featured in this kind of article? This family is struggling, making changes, living life differently than they did before. That's the point of the article. Several commenters seem to think that only families who are eating out of dumpters should be featured or sympathized with.
Posted by kg2273 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Good article. Thanks
Posted by Mrgolf95 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Don't breed them, if you can't feed them!
Posted by veloboldie (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This is NOT struggling. That's the news.
Posted by mitlen (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)
While I can appreciate any family's efforts to save money, this family has miles to go before it truly "gets it." Taking your child to get her nails done is just plain wrong. A ten percent pay cut should have been a much larger wake up call for these folks. If they had gone from eating prawns (fresh or frozen) for dinner to preparing tuna helper, that would have made more sense. Come on people!
Posted by popmer1967 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I am really interested in how much the dad makes. $75k to paint cars? Does that require a 4 year degree to get a job like that?
I just wish they could have found a family with lower income. Surely there are others that are a better example of facing a downturn.
Posted by rjma1 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Be happy if you were lucky enough to purchase a home 20+ years ago and to not have young children--you folks are in a completely different place and I do not think you fully understand the dilemna--trying to balance the job, things, decent neighborhood, etc.
for those of you who do not know childcare is simply outrageous---that is what my girlfriend in ATL pays for not so fancy childcare--so there not much to do there BUT
They reflect the lives of many of the couples and co-workers that I know--a little out of wack but realistic--who can blame them--you are introduced and measured in this area by
1) the neighborhood that you live in
2) the car that you drive
3) what type of degree and/or job you have
4) which school you child attends ($100k for a private school-noooooo problem)
5) what kind of gadgets do you have (plane, boat, motorcycle, home theatre, etc)
people constantly ask those questions and then make comments--and then make the determination as to whether you are "good enough"--it is not said in so many words but what else would be the motivation?
it personally makes me SICK but that is how this town and many others work--the unspoken drives people to unconsciously try attain all of these things to measure up. It is insane and neurotic and some of you here blasting this couple have bought into also--it may be something else that you indulge in or make judgements about (oh my "that neighborhood" or "that school district" is....insert negative comment) but it is something.
Posted by paganaurora1 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This is a trivial point, but I cannot get beyond the $100 at the zoo. I must have taken my kids to the zoo dozens of times each year when they were young. I didn't know that you were supposed to buy coffee, hot chocolate, and pizza while you were there. We brought water and a few bags of pretzels, and ate lunch when we got home. The zoo is one of the great, virtually free outings for young families. How sad to deprive your children because you feel compelled to spend money on overpriced concessions.
Posted by emmallon3 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This article is disgusting.these people need a reality check.be thankful for what you have .not the manicure that you can't give the princess anymore.....they are living in a selfish bubble...looks like they still have the nice house......they should be ashamed for allowing this to be put in the paper
Posted by gmont9 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)
8-year old bored, wants to get her nails done. GO READ A BOOK. Draw a picture. CHASE A BUTTERFLY. Kick a ball. Wow. Parents indulging self-absorbed kids...needs to stop now.
Posted by ThinkPost (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"Comfortable Middle Class Family Gives Up Maid Service in Sour Economy"? I'm at a loss to figure out the point. They seem better off than many people and their tips for saving are basic and well known. Even their neighborhood sounds relatively unfazed. Does Loudoun Extra really consider these people the face of the recession? Happily for them, they're doing okay.
Posted by sarahabc (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 8:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This is Loudoun Extra - not the paper. Get a grip.
$2000 for 2 kids in daycare in this area is actually on the cheaper side.
Posted by ArlingtonVA3 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Living in Lowdown County must be dirt cheap. How the hell can a family of 4 afford to live comfortably with a COMBINED income in the 100K's? In Fairtax county you would be relegated to the numerous trailer parks.
Posted by uva2manassas (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)
lanz2 not your place to apologize for me!!!! I meant every word I said. They are a bunch of cry babies that want us to feel sorry for them and I for one don't! there are people out there that are homeless and hungry! I feel for them not these people. They still have food on the table and a roof over there heads and health insurance most likely. I thank God everyday for my home and the food we have. I don't complain about what this recession/derpession has done....like no fresh shrimp,no more getting both my nails and toes done...cry me a river. Thank God you are alive and for what you have not what you do not have. there is always someone out there that is worse off than I am.
Posted by ukgirl (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Just think how much better off they would be with out the new tax rate! Sorry I would rather keep the new tax increase in front of everyone then to pick at the bones of others.
Posted by Funnyguyva (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This seriously reads like something out of The Onian.
Posted by gohoyas95 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This is a ridiculous story to write about. Seriously... I don't feel even a tad bit sorry for these people... My mother (for 2 years) supported 4 people (now down to 2), helped pay for my education, and pays a mortgage on a $390,000 home. Thats on a salary of $108-110,000. You mean to tell me they cant manage with 2 salaries that amount to $150,000 or more? PLEASE!
Posted by Mggraves87 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It's nice the post publishes these stories and gives its readers the opportunity to feel superior for moment or two.
Posted by mack1 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Mommy and Daddy need to learn how to live beneath their means. Juicy Couture? I guess she thought they had a lot of disposable income. Must've been some rude awakening. Manicures just because her little girl is 'bored'? Oh my. This couple suffers from a sense of entitlement and I can't say I feel sorry for them. As for the kids, I hope they DON'T grow up to be just like mom and dad.
Posted by Akabang (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I feel so bad for this family. They actually had to give up their maid service AND now they're only getting their nails done INSTEAD of both their nails and toes? How incredibly horrible to hear. I'm devastated for them. And to top it off they aren't buying fresh flowers and having large dinner parties!!! How are they even surviving on their dual income of over $100,000??? I bet poor Michael won't be able to add any more tacky tatoos on his arms (by the way, the same tatoo that every 'want-to-be' has) either.
Sarcasm mode turned off.
How this family is "suffering" from the recession is beyond me. There are millions of families that would love to be in their position.
Posted by chris_rollins2k3 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Wow. Vicious people who comment here...it must be nice to throw stones at glass houses, eh?
It seems some of you are missing the point of the story. Regardless of income or situation, EVERYONE is having to make changes to their lifestyle because the economy sucks. You might think that maid service and after school activities for the kids are frivolous...but up until December, these folks didn't think they were. Now, they are having to reassess their financial situation, just like millions of other Americans, thanks to the economic disaster we find ourselves in.
Someone commented that these folks need a reality check. I think the point is...they have gotten one, and they are having to take a hard look at their spending habits and learn to live within their means, instead of living outside of their means as they did before. Part of the reason the residents of this country are finding themselves in such dire straights is because they didn't used to have to live within their means...all they had to do was go ask the bank for a loan to cover whatever they couldn't afford out of pocket. Now, the banks are folding, the money is drying up, and families who have never had to worry about money are having to take a hard look at their lives and re-think what is truly needed vs what they thought they really needed.
This isn't about some rich family cutting back on luxuries so much as it is on a family who thought they were rich and now realize that they were really just keeping up with the Jonses.
The good news of this is, maybe they, and others like them, will find better ways to spend quality time together as a family
instead of just going out and finding ways to keep from being "bored"...and that might just help improve the strength of their family as a whole.
Posted by ksrgatorfn1 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Since the wife said the husband would stay home with the kids, I expect he makes 50 to 60K and the wife probably 80 to 90K.
There situation seems to be not particularly noteworthy. They have only lost less than 5% of their income. Considering they work in the construction and auto industry they are pretty lucky.
The other cost cutting seems minimal, but I am glad to hear they made a smart move in getting rid of a luxury SUV and replacing it with a more practical car.
Posted by verbal8 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Good for them! They are taking the steps that are necessary to adjust. Instead of berating them for what they have and how they live maybe some of you should turn the mirror on yourselves and see if any of your snide comments apply.
Posted by huristm (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Hmmmm. 4 years ago, we were earning $175K+ a year. Then came retirement. Now days, its $55K/yr. We live well on that. It's all about budgets and living within your means.
Posted by NoVAinExile (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Public interest stories like this are good to read for all of those "haters" out there. To a certain degree it's not how much money you make, it's what you do with it. The worse part about money is just not having any or enough. It's where your priorities lie. There is nothing wrong with working to accumulate and live comfortably and provide your children with the best as you define it. This story just goes to show that everyone along the economic spectrum has been hit terribly and unexpectedly and really most of us are only a paycheck or two away from being homeless.
Posted by lidiworks1 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Oh my, oh my, oh my. I am amazed at the insensivity of so many of the writers. Name calling, undue criticisms, and plain venom. Try some civility. One man's pain sgould not be another's pleasure.
Posted by herb.jordan (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I guess it's a good thing these people got their wake up call. More people need one. But at the risk of piling on, their expectations are totally out of whack. We go to get a manicure but skip the pedicure! What a great way to save. How about all of the people who are really struggling and have been for their whole lives?
At the risk of sounding like an old fogey, when I was a kid in the 70s I lived with my parents and two brothers in a 3 bedroom townhouse that was likely about 1200 square feet plus a half finished basement. My parents both worked, we had old, used cars, ate Hamburger Helper a lot. And somehow we all survived and even thrived. We never took vacations other than to visit my grandparents or other relatives by driving. We lived within our means. My brother and I took student loans and worked our way through college.
This story just further reinforces what a mess this country has become because people have absolutely no self-discipline and they indulge their and their children's every whim. It's time to grow up America.
Posted by fedssocr (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I can not belive some of the comments made, the insensitivity and rudeness is beyond comprehension. I am sure many of the readers are in the same kind of situation, just the formula is different: income less or more, expenditure less or more, the fraction of that expenditure going toward unnecessary less or more. I have thought of my own family's spending and found that I can still make changes, only, I will not deprive the children of their activities (preschool, football, ballett), and yes, we go to the zoo w/o pizza, go to the libraries, play in the park, work in the garden. There is no television set in my house. I have not done my nails for years, we buy from Costco. I do not own a car, but, I do live in NoVa and pay way too much for our house. Probably it would be smart for me to move, but I am staying because of schools, because of continuity, because of the perceived stability I am providing to my children. Those are my choices. This family makes its own. You make your own. Just do not feel that you can go overboard with your comments.
Posted by 12341 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Good Lord. I'm glad I live in Alabama. You people are *mean* to each other. Why not just admit that you are GLAD to see this family suffering anxiety??!?
Posted by erink1954 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"Stacey: At first she was kind of disappointed, but she's been pretty good about it. This is just a teeny, tiny blip in her world. I think there is something beautiful in a child being naive, and at the age of 8 it's not necessary to think about the value of a dollar. I don't know if years of this affecting her will come back to haunt her. It's too early to judge."
What's the practicality in youthful naivete? Sure, let's absolutely do everything we can to avoid taking away their innocence with terrible tragedies like 9/11, but how is it 'beautiful' for a kid -who's obviously old enough to appreciate goods and services- to not have any value of a dollar?
That's TOTALLY the age my parents began teaching me the value of a dollar, starting me on chores to earn a small pittance to fund the trifles (non-spoiled) children enjoy and appreciate. Today I'm fortunately employed, but more importantly I've known how to save my money and CAN afford to live in Northern Virginia.
Posted by Comunista (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It seems the family knows how to change, to make do... Nice of them to put their story "out there", for us to evaulate... I liked the "Stepford" reference, many can relate.. It's too bad "DC" is so difficult.. Their kids losss... Anyway I hope all the commmenters feel better now!!! I know I do..
Posted by ken.hauser (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I am so appalled by some of the comments. Everything is relative to your personal situation. No one has any right to judge these people. While we may not agree with some of their spending habits, it's no one's business but theirs. Everyone has to learn in their own time and it seems that this family had to learn quickly in order to make due. Who are any of you to judge? Furthermore, this family had the courage enough to put their story in the newspaper. Hopefully their courage will inspire other families to learn from their mistakes. Look at everything as a learning experience before you judge. You never know when you'll be in that situation, too. And I guarantee you won't want someone to be as harsh on you as you have been to these people.
Posted by mjl1 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
They truely have not hit economizing. True econimizing means no nails done. Frozen shrimp not happening unless its on sale. I mean a major sale. Our family earns in the mid $100's and we have three children one with a severe disablity. Since the day he was born econimizing has always been the name of the game. We still travel, we have seen almost all the US thanks to KOA and our Cole tent not RV. A treat for our children would be a hotel. The zoo, no problem, everyone Backpacks (with lunch and drinks stowed inside) nearest free parking and our feet. And we limit out side activities to one per child per season. So, I tell the children to choose wisely. Maid service none. Dinner parties few and far between generally pot luck. No magazines basic cable and for one 8 year stretch no cable and no internet. Library is very big. Thrift shopping, saves money and if you know where the good ones are (not around here) you getname brand items sometimes with the tags still attached. Dollar store is a God send. I could go on, But.........They have a lot more to learn.
Posted by ARickoverNuke (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Gad the commenters are harsh!
I just wanted to thank this family for stepping forward and opening up their lives like this. They were frank about themselves and their lifestyle - the good and the bad. I appreciate that.
I don't think the Coughlin's are at all unusual, I'll bet there are a thousand families just like them dotted all around the beltway. People all over are trying to hold on to their dreams, whilereadjusting their lifestyle and reaccessing values.
Posted by jkinser1 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)
$150k/year and a $500k house? Give the kid the healthcare she deserves and get her teeth fixed for pete's sake!
Posted by xian (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Let's see, if I'm the Coughlins here is my check list:
House we can't afford. Check.
Clothes from Juicy Couture so everyone thinks I'm stylish. Check.
Tattoo on my arm so everyone thinks I'm cool. Check.
Dinner party we can't afford so people think we have money. Check. Redecorate the front of our house so we can keep up with Joneses even though we can't afford it. Check. Pamper our kids on things they don't need so we can be more like Tom and Katie Cruise because we saw how they treat their daughter in People magazine. Check.
Budget ourselves and live at, or below our means. Nope. Plan activities and events that are fun, but cost very little or nothing. Nope. Stop worrying about what other people think of us and just be ourselves. No way!
Posted by godsmack1 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
While I agree with some of the comments made, I think it is important for us to remember that these are real people living real life while trying to learn as they go (like the rest of us). Anyway, it seems that these folks bought in to the American dream sold to us on tv by corporations and they are now learning that it is/was all just a house of (credit) cards. We all learn, one way or another, that living beyond your means is simply not sustainable. You may be able to do it for 5, 10, 15 or even 20 years, but one way or another the harsh reality will hit you in the face. While it would be easy for me to say "I told you so", I choose to just say "good for you" and move on with my day.
Posted by seanph (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I can barely type this because of the big taer running down my cheek... Give me a break -- these people and their habits are part of the reason that we are in this mess. Some idiot mortgage broker gave them a mortgage on an inflated house value at the edge of what they could afford and they never gave it a second thought. Then they have children that they can't aford and consider more. And how can they do without the maid??? Welcome to the real world.
Posted by blh123 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This family has made a few modest budget cuts, but they have not changed their definitions for "need" versus "want" ... that is the key that will help them feel really happy about how much they have rather than feel sad about losing out on a pedicure. They seem rather pathetic and not a good example of true suffering that is occurring all around us these days.
Posted by Virginia_Mom (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
A 10% cut in his pay is probably on the order of 3% - 4% cut in their household income. So what again was the problem? In addition to the previous questions, mine is: Why didn't you start out with an Accord? If you weren't trying to be someone you're NOT, you'd be in a lot better shape.
Wake up people, instead of pampering yourselves, why don't you try donating a little time and money to people who are truly less fortunate. I promise you'll feel a lot better for it.
Posted by eric.block (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
OMG I lived next door to Mike and Stacey when they lived in Brambleton--in their Townhouse. This article did not surprise me--I am an attorney and was making double what they make together and I did not upgrade to a single family home back in 2006/07 when I wanted to thank God I did not--I was downsized in 2007 & 2008 from two very good jobs due to recession. I would be on the streets now for sure. I hope they make out alright they are nice people for sure.
Posted by Blackpoliticaldiva08 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I think this article is dumb! How about a story on a family who loss both their jobs, like the ones in the story who moved out in the middle of the night. They couldn't face the shame of their snobby neighbors looking down on them so they had to sneak out like thieves because they lost their jobs!
Posted by PamelaJoseph (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 9:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I read this article on Metro and can not get over it. Glad to see that many comments echo my thoughts. Will never go to DC, yet $20 for a 9 year-old at nail salon is OK?!. WP did a great job featuring them - this family is just one example how many, many more go about their lives and think that shopping is entertainment. I'm kind of glad the times make them rethink the real priorities.
Posted by Aija007 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 10:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm appalled by the venom in many of the posts here. I didn't read that the family was asking for sympathy. I doubt that there are many here who would have focused on saving, cutting back, etc. if the economy hadn't tanked in recent months. Most of us felt wealthy in recent years and how one chose to use that wealth is personal.
The article is about change, and the family represented here was just offering up the changes they've made because of the changes in their financial circumstance. I don't choose to spend on the things that they do, but I certainly don't think they should be condemned for their choices. When you've worked hard you feel you deserve some reward. Thankfully the downturn hasn't impacted our family significantly. We both still have good, stable jobs, our children's needs and many of their wants are met, but we recognize that it can all change in an instant. So we monitor what we do, and make choices that reflect that. I think that's the lesson we all should take from this recession.
Posted by ssjones1 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 10:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)
he is HOT!
Posted by guyinfla (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 10:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Well, these people do have guts for putting their sotry out there for all to see.
My question, Dad is paid by a company directly linked to one of the big 3 US automakers. Though Ford is in the best shape of the 3, they are still in bad shape.
And he goes out and trades his Acura for a Honda? Talk about biting the hand that feeds!
Posted by BEEPEE (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 10:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey, it appears some people who live in Loudoun ARE quite rude...
LOL
Posted by JkR- (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 10:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)
These are not real people - or are they?
My daughter is 10 years old. I have taught her how to account for her pocket money ($2/week) using Quicken. She can see for herself how real money works for real people in the real world. I hope and pray as a parent I will be able to impart her the basic education to stay out of the bubble forever.
Posted by arindam_gupta (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 10:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm so appalled that anyone could or would defend these shallow fools, who obviously have no clue about how to manage their money or budget. They spent $100 at a free zoo(!), and indignantly refuse to return as a result. That speaks volumes. My HH income is virtually the same, although my Montgomery County house is not nearly as nice, but my two similarly-aged children are being taught that the love my wife and I give them is worth far more than "things" and indulgences.
Posted by BeauTochs (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 10:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It is about time for Americans to learn about the value of money. It is not how much money you make, it is how you use your money. people need to understand that when you buy a house you should be able to pay the mortgage with one income. Why buy a house you can not aford? you can still be happy living in appartment and rasing you children with less stress. I wish the family the best luck.
Posted by asmeretaylay (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 10:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I am sickened by this article. You are having a hard time of it, well arent we all? We are busting our bottoms with 1-2 Jobs, to provide for our children and make a better life for them than we had, and our lives growing up were great! Our parents instilled values in us, worked so that we could have the best and so that we would do the same for their grandchildren!
Isn't that the american dream?
Or is the Dream to Still Drive your shiny BMW, (did the reporter forget to add this) or did you just park it in the driveway next door where the people moved in the middle of the night? I am sorry that Juicy is unaffordable now, but there is a store called Target that has great Sweats, Jeans and more, ever heard of that or is that not something you have down there in CASHBURN?
Maybe you should meet with some people who are really struggling, have no food to eat or no home over their heads....work at a shelter for a day....you will see where you are going to be if you dont grow up, put your childrens needs first, stop crying and stop spending!
I can not believe that they wasted their time on this article. Complete BS.
WA WAA WAAAAAA- Cry me a freaking River, Would you like some cheese with that Wine? Oh Wait a minute, it may have to be Boones Farm and Velveeta....
Trade the silver spoon for a plastic one guys!
Posted by loislane1330 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 11:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Typical internet venom spewed here by a bunch of butheads. Could the Post have selected a better couple to interview - maybe. But the point was to show that the recession hits everyone differently.
These people werent "crying" out for sympathy from anyone as far as I can tell. They were simply responding to basic questions about how they are impacted/dealing with the bad economy.
In response we get the the typical knee jerk ahole posts. Complaining how someone else spends their money - get a life. If they were on here complaining boohoo, or demanding someone else foot the bill for their mistakes (like most people) then that is one thing but that is not going on in this article. A lot of you need to look in the mirror and get a freakin life
Posted by bolt55 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 11:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)
When I go to the Zoo, I take Metro ($16 roundtrips for 3), pack snacks & water, and stay away from the Gift Shop.
We might buy some food, if what we brought didn't suffice, or if an ice cream 'jones' hits one of us.
I'd never spend even close to $100 on going to the Zoo.
Posted by OhTheHumanity (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 12:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
We all know people in this situation, and need to help them through it...we are all affected in some way!
I dont know anyone who hasnt had to tighten their budget, cut out the pork and live a more simple life!
Hopefully something good will come out of this series of articles!
Spend more time at home, or go to the park, play....live life cheaply! You can do it!
Posted by Sarah (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 12:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Wow!
If I owned stock in a company that sold internet venom, I would unload everything: how could professional abusers compete with the anger, venom, vitriol, and downright meanness on display for free here at the Loudoun Extra.
Yeesh.
Posted by Pablo01 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 12:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey bolt55 if your willing to have your family written about in a local newspaper then expect criticism. They seem like good people on the surface I just think it's funny that what they've had to give up is a little comical.
Posted by razzledazzle (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 12:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
There are many more people in Ashburn, Loudoun, and all over the US far worse off than these folks. I don't discredit their sacrifices (but a 9 year old getting her nails done?! Come on!) but this newspaper should focus on people who are REALLY struggling. How about going into DC and interviewing some of the folks living in SE? Or even in parts of Leesburg or Sterling for that matter? It's disappointing that the Post decided to focus on how the "rich" are cutting back. Sorry, but mid-$100,000 is rich in my book. It's all about choices...
Posted by loudouner04 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 12:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Which one of the haters are you?
1) Make less money then them so you hate
2) Don't have a job because you got canned and they do.
Posted by katliu1 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 2:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
#3 Somebody's peeing on my head and telling me it's raining.
Posted by mitlen (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 2:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Blame the writer not the family. Hate the game not the player. Hate the tax not the tax payer.
Posted by Funnyguyva (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 2:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
STOP all the resentment and jealousy. Wouldn't you like to be in their shoes.
Posted by pickonequick (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 3:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
funnyguy, I agree with you and I feel badly for this family who was willing to give us a glimpse of their lives for this article. They are making adjustments according to their means, goals, and values. It really isn't for any of us to say what they should do with their money.
I think the Post could do a better job selecting who and what they write about and how they frame their articles.
Posted by momof2 (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 4 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Why must *every* article be about struggling? Look, everyone doesn't have equal skills, equal pay, or equal circumstances. And some will simply be able to ride out the recession better than others. That doesn't make that couple any less *real* than the stories about people having fun playing with rocks.
So far, my wife and I are able to ride this thing out without changing our lifestyles so much. Why? Well, we worked hard in college and used our degrees to get jobs that pay well. She makes quite a bit and I wouldn't touch what she makes. It'll be a pay cut. I don't feel the least bit guilty. We both worked hard for every dollar and started out with an apartment and my 15 year old car. My current vehicle is a 2000 and her's is a 5 year old. Both paid off.
We put money into savings, into 529s, and into retirement. After my brief dalliance with unemployment in 2001, we set a goal to save more and now we have well over a year of salary put aside. We can both lose our jobs tomorrow and maintain our current levels for over a year before running out of cash - that's cable, internet, day care, the works... I sleep well at night.
But we leave below our means. We were married years before we got our house. Then waited years before our first child, then years more before our second. We still have a huge, heavy, 35"(?) TV that we got in 2000. We paid off student loans over the course of 10 years, but paid them off.
Do I still think twice before a purchase? You bet, but I always did that. But once I've come to the conclusion to buy, I buy.
I started at 28k/year and moved up faster than I would have thought thanks to hardware work and IT. (Keep your skills sharp and you can thrive in IT.) I remember that 28k and all the points in between that and what I make.
Someone posted that they think these guys are rich. They are not. I make almost as much as they do by myself and I'm not rich. Rich people don't have to work for a living. I work. I have to work to eat.
And so do they, so how about cutting them some slack. Perhaps if some of you channeled that energy into self-improvement, you could have a maid that you could layoff too.
Posted by eternalemperor (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 4:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"hardware work and IT."
make that hard work and IT.
Posted by eternalemperor (anonymous) on April 15, 2009 at 4:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Some of us clipped coupons and lived well within our means in LoCo on half of these folks' income even during the boom times, and managed to put away more than three months worth of living expenses. But then, both my husband and I experienced layoffs years ago and learned some hard lessons then, including 1) pay off the CC every month, 2) never ever finance a vehicle (buy used, well used if you have to), 3) borrow only half of what the bank is willing to lend you for a house, so that if your spouse is laid off you don't lose your house.
FWIW I've only had a manicure once in my life, and that was for my wedding.
Posted by gieriscm1 (anonymous) on April 16, 2009 at 8:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Great advice, gieriscm1!
Posted by momof2 (anonymous) on April 16, 2009 at 9:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)
at least they're forced to think about where / how they're spending their money.
that's the problem - too many people are living mindlessly.
sorry - no sympathy for combined salary in the mid-$100s.
and re the zoo - it costs $100 for a 2 year, family membership, which gets you free parking every visit - (at $10-$20 to park per visit, you can go 5-10 times, and you're already saving money) + take your own food / drink and have a picnic. We recently went to the zoo with 7 people and spent about $20 combined.
The Post could find better "victims".
Posted by robjdisc (anonymous) on April 16, 2009 at 9:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Great article. The important thing to remember is that adults in their early 30s have never had to live as adults during a serious recession. Dropping their maid service and Juicy Couture runs feels like a big sacrifice when it represents the lifestyle thy've always had. This entire crisis is a huge wake up call for an entire generation raised on obsessive consumerism.
Posted by arijsky (anonymous) on April 16, 2009 at 10:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I recently went to the zoo, I took the Loudoun Transit from Cascades to West Falls Church ($1.25 on smarttrip), then the metro to the Zoo ($3.25), walked around the zoo for a couple hours (free) and left. I bought lunch at the Old Post Office for maybe $6, but could have easily brought some snacks with me. This family should have done some research before taking their trip. I'm pretty sure Loudoun Transit has a bus that goes between Ashuburn and the metro.
Posted by chalmersp (anonymous) on April 16, 2009 at 5:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Nice post arijisky. Lets lump all 30 year olds into one bucket. I know plenty of older adults who are hurting just as much and by the way are just as obsessed with consumerism.
Posted by fuzzyturtle35 (anonymous) on April 16, 2009 at 8:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Did this couple acutally get this way on their own? I don't think so. They were products of their parents who indulged them with the I have to have it now syndrome. They have and are passing this along on to their children too albeit now they're scaling it back a little bit. I have no credit card debt and haven't for almost 10 years. How do we live without credit? If we can't pay cash, we don't buy it. If it's a true emergency there are ways to handle it -- get smart. I have to admit that my husband and I do not have 3 months of expenses saved. I would like to but unfortunately it's just not the case right now. We are working on that. And I have to ask -- if Hannah is 8 why does it cost $2K a month in daycare? Isn't she in school? After care cannot cost that much.
Posted by tecatesdream (anonymous) on April 17, 2009 at 9:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)
These are the very people, who will be first in line for Federal mortgage bailout money.
Posted by NoVAinExile (anonymous) on April 17, 2009 at 11:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"Everyone puts on airs. I call this the neighborhood of the Stepford Wives".
Miss "Juicy"! Maybe your neighbors didn't get a pay cut or didn't spend time "fronting" by living way beyond their means. I am sure they are not pretentious as you are.
Posted by pfrank7 (anonymous) on April 19, 2009 at 7:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
OMG WHAT A RETARD.......A PAINTER WAS GOIN TO PAY SOME ONE TO PAINT HIS HOUSE??????????
WAKE UP.... STOP BEING LAZY
Posted by DCSK8R (anonymous) on April 20, 2009 at 10:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)
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