Skyhigh, Im not trying to be an a$$ but let me ask you a few questions. Since i know nothing about your personal background please correct any wrong assumptions that may be made.

What is your latte factor? Where does your money go? And i dont care if you make 60 grand or 150 grand. I have plenty of friends that make more than I. its not that hard to do. And a majority of them are in serious debt. 10 grand or more on credit cards and increasing everyday. they only pay the minimum payment. everytime a new "gadget" comes out they just HAVE to have it, NOW! Lease or buy a new car every three years....what a waste! they tend to buy the best clothing and eat out two/three times a week....i wish i could do all that. but you know what? i dont allow myself to live on borrowed money anymore. i used to be one of those guys when i was younger(im 33).

there is an old saying in texas "Big Hat, No Cattle". if you just scratch the surface of most peoples financial lives....they are a mess. the sad part is that our school system doesnt prepare students for the financial world. we only learn about money management from our parents/family. we probaly all can see our parents within ourselves.

point is....most people get a raise and the money is already spent....bigger house, new boat, huge vacation.....

i would encourage any of you who would like a good place to start to learn about money read David Bach's "Automatic Millionare" it will get you thinking.

now dont assume that i live the life of a hermit. my wife,son and i enjoy vacations and a nice night out every month or so. we plan for it. my son plays soccer and basketball and what im most proud of......we all talk about money together. i tell why we are unable to buy X product, but maybe we can save for it. we have bought stocks together now.....he's 7 .....i ask what are some of your favorite toys. after he names the first 100 or so we look up what companies make the games and then we buy stock in that company. he loves to see how much money he "made". plus its fun and hes learning.

i dont want him to grow up the way i did. scared to even talk about money. it was always NO! and we cant afford it.......now i say how CAN we afford it.

remember im just sharing my thoughts about money and salaries. airline pilot, school teacher, garbage man.....it really doesnt matter how much you make, its how much you SPEND.