I'm trying to get an objective understanding of the current economic situation in the US. Looking at manipulated stats won't help so I turn to you instead, to tell me your personal view on how bad things are. I want to know if someone you know may be in trouble because of the housing crisis. And how fast is the cost of living going up? Is inflation noticable when you go shopping? Have you noticed any difference with credit card loans yet?

I read a lot about people having a rough time right now but I'd like to know how wide spread this is. If you have personally noticed something that's out of the ordinary, please tell me.