It is deeply concerning, especially if you’re retired and on a fixed income, how prices seem to keep going up. Even though I only drive occasionally, I’m deeply aware how much gasoline prices are increasing, almost daily now. I’m also looking at my sales receipts at the grocery store, which are definitely higher than in the past–even though I haven’t altered my diet and don’t buy much meat.

I’m enormously grateful for Medicare and, so far, for not needing any prescription drug items or medical procedures which Medicare and my secondary insurance don’t cover. I can only imagine how difficult it would be if those circumstances were different and I would need to pay out-of-pocket for prescription drugs or medical procedures.

I’m also grateful to not be renting an apartment. The costs sound outrageous and the anxiety about lease increases pretty dreadful.

Finally, I’m grateful to not be raising young children at this stage of my life. I do remember how expensive childcare costs are and the added costs for clothing, school supplies, shoes, books, you name it.

The bottom line (literally and figuratively), we all have to watch our wallets in ways we may never have in recent years.