[alisoncg]

Absolutely, but like I said, it seems that nobody knows where to begin to get the bail-out help some of us so badly need. I can honestly say that we purchased a home which was completely affordable for us when we bought it 5 years ago. It is in a great community but the house itself is one of the smallest models and has none of the bells and whistles some of our neighbors have. We were very realistic when we bought and let our needs come before our wants. When we refinanced 2 years ago, all the money went back into the house for fencing, a screen enclosure, etc. I really feel that we were very practical in our purchase and there should be some advantage for folks like us. I read your previous posts and was so sorry to hear how desperate you have felt over your situation. I can certainly relate though. We are in a community where most of the homeowners are well off and don't have any problems with money. It's embaressing when we have to decline an invitation to something because we can't afford to go. Some of our friends and neighbors thought I was mad at them for some time now because I avoided getting together with them. This situation has been very depressing for me and just like an alcoholic needs to stay away from the influence, I felt that it was best to not expose myself to situations which depressed me. Listening to neighbors who have interest onlyor low interest loans talk about their vacations, home purchases and improvements, etc. only compounds the feeling of depression I have for our situation. I felt it was best to just avoid it and have damaged some friendships as a result. This mess just trickles down and affects everything doesn't it?