Inflation… there’s that effing word again. It’s EVERYWHERE. But WHAT does it really mean? Well, I can tell you I don’t 100% know. I mean, I understand the basic concept and it’s effect on our economy… and my wallet. Other than that, I can’t give you a great economic break down. What I can tell you is how inflation has impacted me and how it may be impacting you.
I take after my mother in that I study my grocery bill. Over the past two years, I have watched price increases specifically at the grocery store. Let me tell you, there are a ton of increases. From my canned tomatoes to my favorite local steaks, prices have increased. Don’t even get me started on the price of milk. Apparently wanting organic milk for my family is going to cost me upwards of $6. Yup, I still pay it. We have been lucky and can keep buying what we need and want but I do keep an eye on a deal and the best places to buy certain goods. Luckily, I live in a really community centric area and we are aware the food shortage and price increases are a thing for many of our fellow Vermonters. So we are often doing food drives for our local food bank. From Thanksgiving meals to regular ole’ dropping cans and non-perishable items, we want to do our part to ease the burden that inflation can inflict. I don’t say that self-righteously. I am genuinely concerned that food is unattainable for people. Watching inflation and it’s impact on my wallet has made me more convinced that we need to figure out how to make more food and be investing in technology in which to do that. Some groups and studies say that by 2050 we are going to be in a global food supply crisis/shortage. Some disagree with this estimate. Regardless, I think the past two years of have shown us that stability in this category isn’t guaranteed and we need to figure out how to not only adapt but move forward in a positive way so that all citizens of the world can eat… inflation be da^*ed.
Another area of global life that has been heavily hit by inflation is gasoline. I drive a Volvo XC90. It requires premium. It’s annoying. Luckily, I don’t fill up often. But it still hurts when I do. Yesterday, I paid $5.29 a gallon. My final bill was $86 and change. That was about 12 days worth of driving… so not too bad but not great either. Wanna go on a trip? Be prepared for your wallet to take a hit. Tickets have been higher since the pandemic but have now gone up about 25% more. The International Air Transport Association has stated that in the past year alone jet fuel has gone up 150%.
Take all of the above and apply it to every basic part of your life: vacations, school, utilities, general budgeting etc. We are spending more and let’s be honest, it hurts! We feel it. Some say this is a great time to take some risks with the stock market. Full disclosure: Investing is all greek to me. But I get why people say it makes sense. I also get why it scares the crap out of people. Ultimately, you have to do what is best for your money and you should always seek the guidance of a financial advisor.
Know all of this? Good. I encourage all of you to be keeping tabs on your grocery and misc. bills and comparing prices. Why? Simple awareness. How often do you throw in a carton of strawberries and actually consider the price? It may or may not matter to you but you should know the market. It’s just good common sense. Here in Vermont, a lot of the state is on propane or oil. Propane costs are about to rise this next calendar year (starting in July). That makes me so grumpy because it’s already high, I have to have it, and I can’t do anything about it. On top of it, I really dislike my propane company. Most people I know do too but it’s nearly impossible to switch to another company with better rates and service without investing several thousands of dollars in tank installation, fill up, and man hours.
Speaking of inflation, I am inflating every day as I near the end of my pregnancy. This week marks my 37th week of growing my baby boy. My ankles have officially disappeared and my toes resemble pigs in blankets. My nesting urges are strong AF and the reality that my baby could really arrive any day has hit. In an effort to enjoy these last few weeks with my family and give my body some rest, I am taking a break from blogging, grocery store trips (thank you grocery gods for Instacart), and outings in general. It’s getting difficult to get in and out of my car with ease. And with gas being what it is, my checking account will naturally reap the benefits of staying home. I will be back on the blog in a few months. Until then stay safe, have fun in the sun, and just be happy.
The Salty Exchange 