I saw an article today about the middle class and the wealthy. In simple terms it boiled down that the middle class has to budget for anything and everything. Many individuals believe they are middle class but in reality they are not. They are the families that save for holidays, take road trips and budget their monthly finances. The rich do not need to as they have all the money they need so they do not have to focus on costs. Many individuals do not realize the value of a true budget. I developed one years ago but my late husband took credit for it. I mapped out monthly expenses, unexpected items and to always put money in savings. Anyone who has followed it has been quite successful. In this world, you simply cannot guess about finances. Inflation has had a tremendous impact on everyone’s cash flow. I have seen articles, for example, in two locations. One was in Patilo, Texas where the city is increasing everyone’s water bill by one hundred forty-six percent. In San Diego an increase is coming even though they are no longer in a drought. Another city in Texas is collecting fees for a home owners’ association that does absolutely nothing. They claim they are managing the money and working for the community. Yet the roads are horrific and there are no services to speak of. One of the things budget conscious people do is use up leftovers. They also eat at chain restaurants which the rich do not. The average middle class person still lives a decent life. They just have to watch their money. They can still enjoy themselves just not at expensive resorts, their alternate homes in various locations or expensive vehicles. The rich also have people who handle everything. They do not mow their own lawns, shop at large discount stores, rarely cook their own meals or buy clothing from local shops or online. I think living with a budget is positive, do you? The Good Gus Series is available online at Kindle, Nook and Waterstones. Hard copies, personally autographed, are available through our website www.goodgusbooks.com along with past blogs for your reading enjoyment. Now available audio and videos for the Good Gus series on YouTube! Digitizing for all the books are available now on YouTube! “Misplaced Trust” is now available on Amazon in e-book form. It is also available digitally at www.misplacedtrustbook.com. If you are thinking of a Will or a Living Trust, “Misplaced Trust” will give you the information you need to make an informed decision. Please check me out on IHeart radio. “The Special Gift” is now available at the Morgan Mill Mail/UPS.