[Popman]

Dude...
Ever hear of inflation, wage stagnation ?

The last six years I have seen three raises of 2% each...

All the while prices, taxes, fees, food, etc has skyrocketed....

I figure my buying power has decreased by 20 % at least...

[IllumiNaughtyByNature]

Being on a budget is the best raise you could give yourself. I have watched dozens of families, myself included, go through the Dave Ramsey FPU series and make real, significant changes the their financial position.

It can be done, it is being done and is starting to gain tracking in some school systems.

As for the raises, etc; I am in sales, so the raises and pay cuts are a lot of my own doing. We can swing greatly from year to year, but do budgets based on the most conservative estimates.

My best to you, fellow FReeper.

INBN