“People want economy, and they'll pay any price to get it.”

- Lee Iacocca

I've been watching the news lately and every other story is skirting around the same issue of how the national economy is taking more hits than a fat kid in dodge ball. No one wants to admit it, but we are headed down the path toward some pretty hard times, my friends.

Trust me, you know things are getting tough when the tooth fairy stops leaving quarters and just drops off an I.O.U.

So let's just call it like it is and realize we are in the midst of (dare I say it) a recession. Now relax, that doesn't mean everything is all bad news.

After all, you can't spell recession without recess, and that's the best time to be creative and have some fun.

And, fear not, because it really isn't too late to turn this ship around and start to save a little scratch.

We just have to find some new ways to not spend as much and leave some of that cold cash in our pockets.

Let's get down to brass tacks and start looking at slashing some of those letters utility companies love to send us, that always start out with the words, “In case you had forgotten.”

I'm talking utilities.

Getting soaked from your water bill? Stop washing the dishes.

If someone notices a few crumbs on their plate, just says it's leftover night. (Who ever said pizza crust can't be used as a garnish?)

Your electric bill too high?

Don't turn on the air conditioner this summer. Instead, just do what I do and ask Honey if she's gaining weight. Like me, you'll be getting the cold shoulder all night long.

Is health care starting to become a pain in your bottom line? Simple, just cut your One A Day vitamins in half. The trick here is that you only need to be healthy when you're awake; so just sleep more.

I know, I know, your asking yourself, “But Bradley, what about my necessities?#” Don't worry, I have you covered.

Do you want one of those fancy dusters but can't afford the cost? Just duct tape the cat to a broom handle.

Better yet, have your kids do this. This will provide more hours of excitement than a PlayStation ever will. Also, as far as games go, if your children are asking if they can have a Wii, just show them the bathroom and tell them to have a nice time.

Want to save money on razors? Try growing a beard. (Note: this is intended for the male readers only! If I wanted to date the bearded lady I would have stayed in the circus.)

And I know that single folks have it tough living on only one income. My advice? Try dating a senior citizen. With their discount you'll save a bundle at movies and restaurants.

If you do nothing else, try and be positive because things have a way of turning around.

So, although they may shut off your lights, you won't be in the dark for long.

Auburn native Bradley Molloy's column appears here,

each Sunday, in The Citizen.

He can be reached at lovonian@hotmail.com