Things we pay too much for ...

~ Cable / satellite TV - Even the lowest priced plans are far too expensive; especially considering that there is no competition in many markets. We pay $63 a month. Needless to say, that service is getting cancelled.

~ Basic telephone - It really burns me that basic lifeline service is $12.95 for SOME low-income people but I can't get that deal. Instead I have to get exactly the same service but pay $30 a month for it. I even hate the fact that my 'basic' service price is increased by approx $5 a month due to add-on fees and taxes.

~ Internet access - We pay $51 a month for high-speed internet access. That's ridiculously high but if we want access at all, that's what is available. Again, no competition so we get what we get and pay the price.

~ Income tax filing fees - That we have to pay AT ALL to electronically file is amazing to me. We're SAVING the government money and on top of it we have to PAY to electronically file? That just burns my hide!

~ Credit card interest rates - Ever hear the term 'usury'? Here is the definition ... 1archaic : interest 2: the lending of money with an interest charge for its use ; especially : the lending of money at exorbitant interest rates 3: an unconscionable or exorbitant rate or amount of interest ; specifically : interest in excess of a legal rate charged to a borrower for the use of money. When credit card companies start charging borrowers 19.99%, 21.99%. 25.99% or even 35.99% interest rates JUST BECAUSE THE BORROWER WAS LATE ON ANOTHER CC, to me, that is usury.

~ Cellphone service - I have a basic nationwide plan with a three year old phone. It is the cheapest plan I can get unless I go to a pay-as-you-go yet my plan cost $44 a month! That is excessive. I'm looking to switch.

~ Toilet paper - This is a product that is manufactured BY THE TON, yet we pay what? More than a $1 a roll - more if we want luxury paper? Then we use the stuff for a moment and FLUSH it down the sewer? It galls me to pay so much for the stuff.

~ Beauty products - Every woman knows, we're paying for the advertising and the packaging; not the stuff inside. Yes, some specialty ingredients will cost more, but the mark-up on beauty products is astounding.

~ 'Virtual' items - Ever buy virtual furniture, charms or accessories on Webkinz? What a racket.

There is so much more but I'll stop now.