Today is the first day of spring and that means something -- I'm not really sure what -- since the seasons all seem to run together. If it means warmer weather. like we've had in the last few days, then that is great. I paid my monthly utility bill today of $407, twice as much as the next highest bill I've paid in the past 11 months since buying my quaint 2-bedroom home here on North Dixie Freeway.
The billing clerk told me I wasn't the only one shocked by the amount due. Like a lot of people, I turned the heat on during those cold nights we had and admittedly so, on some cold days as well. The problem with this house is it's really old and sits on cinder blocks. The worst thing about it is the insulation, especially with the large chimney and fireplace. Don't get me wrong. I love the house, but utilities can be expensive.
We're all struggling financially with this national recession and the news is sometimes downright dreary. For someone who makes his living on the news, I find myself recoiling sometimes, especially lately with cable news -- CNN, FOX, MSNBC. I find myself more and more gravitating to ESPN and thankfuly, CBS' coverage of the NCAA basketball tournament. For me, sports is an escape.
But when I get back to reality. I realize ZI have to pay this month's cable/Internet bill, so that's another $100-plus. And there's the cell phone package for myself and my son, another $100-plus. Got to make that car insurance payment -- more money.
At least it's the first day of spring so that reminds me -- in 12 days it's mortgage time again -- that's the big one every month.
Then there's gas for the car and food. Junior's always bothering me for chocolate milk. And he's constantly wanting Taco Bell -- at $8 a clip. I've got to get the oil changed and need a set of front tires for my Audi TT, a convertible sports car that sucks up 93 octane gas. Oh yes, the car payment: Yes, it's a lot.
So how does everyone do it? Do we give up our cable, phones and skimp on the utilities? If you are like me, you rob Peter to pay Paul, but eventually it catches up with you. It's tough, but we're all in this together, as our president says. Well, most of us, except those well to do at AIG, with those huge bonuses. I watched the Congressional hearing on that matter the other day and I ended up switching to ESPN where they were talking about the NFL and million-dollar free agent signings.
I guess as long as I can pay my cable bill I'm alright. After all, we have to live and the more we invest in ourselves and each other, especially small businesses, the heartland of America, we can get through this.