<p>The only decrease we’ve experienced is gas prices declining, although that doesn’t help me very much. Our local utilities are all raising their rates. I expect our total monthly utility costs to increase at least $50; mid-winter will be worse. Food prices, in general, are still high, as are paper products and cleaning supplies. Our auto ins. rates are up, but we don’t want to make a change until ds has his own coverage. </p>
<p>Our new home has required some work, and folks here are actually charging more and blaming it on higher gas and materials costs (nevermind that gas is much lower than just a few months ago.) </p>
<p>I have seen more clothing sales. However, I’ve also returned everything that I ordered online recently because the retailer misinformed me about the items’ country of origin. Every last item was made in China. The tainted Heparin from the PRC was the last straw for me. I am resigned to paying more for everything, from clothing to household goods, in order to buy products not made in China. </p>
<p>The univ. where ds is now enrolled increased tuition about 7% this semester and plans additional increases. A new dorm and a major classroom bldg. remodel were just announced as part of the reason for the higher tuition and fees.</p>
<p>House prices in our neighborhood have fallen dramatically. One reason may be that there are at least four foreclosures just on our street. The only possible benefit to us is that we can protest our tax assessment based on our home’s much lower market value.</p>