Live Small and Prosper: Things that are going North ($$$) Pt 1

My motto Live small, aka ‘live small and prosper,’ aka ‘reduce spending, pay down debts and save money for the tough times ahead’ seems to be getting more important every day.

I wouldn’t be surprised if the federal Conservatives try to squeeze a bit of it into our national anthem - while they’re tinkering in order to distract people from the fact they don’t know how to solve Canada’s large financial, economic and environmental problems.

(Hint: Start off with O Canada, our home and mortgaged land...

Then, after the phrase ‘true patriot love,’ throw in ‘save dough 'cause times are tough.’)

Until that happens I’ll maintain a list of things that are going North ($$$), as far as our wallets are concerned.

First, our national debt will go over $600 billion in 2012, according to Canada’s Dept. of Finance.

Second, our hydro bills will rise once we switch to the new ‘smart meter’ rates.

Third, oil just past $80 US per barrel. That can’t be good (unless it’s burbling from your back yard. Is it? Call me).

Fourth, Canada’s average household debt to income ratio just went from 140 to 145 percent (predicted to be at 160 soon).


Fifth, experts predict that higher interests are on the way, so mortgages and lines of credit will cost Canadians more.

Sixth, the HST (Hiked Sales Tax) will be starting in just a few months, and many shopping purchases and monthly bills will cost Canadians more.

Seventh, a copy of Batman’s debut in a 1939 comic book sold recently for $1.075 million US. So, if you’re into rare comics (and I say, why not), start saving up.

Okay, that’s enough good news for one day.

***

Canada, did I miss anything else going North ($$$)?

Have you bought a new piggy bank lately?

Please click here to read Part 2.

.