Me, Her, the Boy and a Dog
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I watched the second Presidential debate tonight to hear the two candidates’ ideas on how to get our economy back on track. Both candidates acknolwedged that the majority of Americans are having to tighten their belts just to make ends meat. And if you’re like me, you’re in the same boat.
So, how are you tightening your belt? Cutting back on the cable or satellite packages? Carpooling? Buying Ramen Noodles (10 for $1!)? There are lots of ways to cut back and one that I’ve found most helpful is doing my research online before I leave the house.
I like to shop locally because if I plan my trips, I can save gas, time and money. More importantly, I like support local businesses in my community. It’s vital that our small, local businesses survive these tough economic times.
I recently moved back to Blacksburg and even though I lived here during my undergraduate days more than 15 years ago, a lot has changed and many of the businesses I remember are long gone. So, when I need to find a new favorite restaurant, I use a Web version of my local yellowpages.
With gas prices still ridiculously high, I decided to get a bike that I can ride around town and even to work when the weather is nice. I did a local search for “bicycles” in Blacksburg, Virginia and viola! I found Hokie Spokes (clever name!) and East Coasters. Both shops had a great selection, but ultimately, I chose East Coasters for my brand new Trek Hybrid - read about my first ride.
Why did I choose East Coasters? Well, they are about a mile from my house and, my family Web site is called EastCoastCopes.com, so I felt a geeky kind of connection to East Coasters.
One last example of what I was able to find online, was my favorite BBQ joint. I live in Blacksburg (as I mentioned earlier) and I don’t feel like driving all the way to Christiansburg just to eat some decent BBQ. So, I hopped on the trusty Internet, searched for BBQ restaurants in Blacksburg and found Log Cabin … it is awesome! If you like BBQ and you near the ‘Burg, you have to try it.
Well, it’s late and it’s been a long day. I worked a full day, had lunch with my friend Josh, paid bills, cleaned the house and watched the debate. Time for a well deserved night’s sleep. Til next time bloggers!
