Can you say recession?

This is somewhat off-topic for a blog about living in the country, but it really can't be avoided, can it? I'm referring to discussion about the economy, of course.

Surprisingly, those around me at work seem to be feeling little effect from the economic downturn (I am in a somewhat recession-proof business). As a single woman closing in on retirement, and with a relatively new (2 years), larger mortgage (how d'ya think I bought this property!), I am terrified. Thank the heavens above that I have made a fairly good salary my working life and, consequently, my Social Security payment, if I wait until 70 to retire, will keep me alive and in my home. I just got my SS statement last week and was that ever welcome news after the dramatic losses in my 401-k and retirement accounts.

But it wasn't until a trip to Lowe's 2 weekends ago that what is going on in the country really hit home. I was there between 1 and 2pm on a Saturday afternoon!! The parking lot was only half full...or, rather, it was half empty! I was floored!