What is it about the midwest . . . ?

[DollyM]

This past year has been the worst ever for my business and yet the Feds keep telling us that the economy is getting better and better so they have to raise interest rates. So where is the economy getting better? Isn't doesn't seem to be Illinois. I know the gas prices have hurt my business tremendously (I own a little doll and craft store) as people just don't have the extra income for non essentials anymore. I think we need to have interest rates based upon how your individual state is doing! Thanks for letting me vent anyway!

[Bjornsdotter]

1. I hear you!

We've had problems too, so have most of the people we know who are self-employed. You are not alone :hug:

Cheers

[madrchsod]

2. you make big dolls!

ya things are total crap in illinois. we used to have our own business but no one but older people would pay in cash..everyone else was credit card or they didn`t have enough money left to afford our reasonably priced window fashions. now i`m making a little over 8 an hour..

[DollyM]

3. Yes I do . . .

Make big dolls that is . . . little ones too but the 39 inch ones are my favorite. I have been stopped by the police twice for not having my "child" in a car seat when I was transporting the big ones in the front seat of my van.
The only positive about being in Illinois is that we are making so little money that we qualify for the state health insurance (All Family) now. We haven't had health insurance in 8 years so in a way, this will be a relief. I have however, decided to cut my losses with the business and close my doors in October. It will actually close two businesses because I also mind a friends store that is located in the same building and he can't be here during the week. But neither one of us is doing anything but getting lookers so whats the point. I figure I can keep my web site and that will help some and just try to find a job to make up the rest. I am finding that pretty difficult too though since I have self employed several years. That is apparently a negative with employers . . . sigh . . . Here is my web site . . . www.tinastots-dolls.com You should see my links page, I don't get enough hate mail from Republicans about it yet so I still have work to do! LOL!

[JohMunich99]

4. The Feds live on the east coast

What do they know about the midwest?

[benny05]

5. Hello Dolly

Let me extend a welcome to the DU. :hi:

The economy seems to vary in Illinois. I live downstate. I've noticed there are quite a few new houses going up, despite flat or little wage increases for a university town. The universe willing, the farmers will have bumper crops, but the question is will they be able to get their products to market and how that affects our state economy.

Having said that, I'm not spending that much on things that would be nice to have or much on collectibles. For my birthday last month, my spouse wanted to buy me a new chair for my home office, but alas, I've asked him to hold off as my mother (in TX) needs money, so I will have to wait.

I'm sorry to read that it's been tough for you and your family.

Hang in there.

Benny

:hug: