I knew this would be an interesting summer. I just didn't know the extent!

I've finally hit rock bottom financially living in San Francisco. It took me 1 year and 9 months to max out all my available credit, and now I must begin the slow, painful process of shedding luxuries and living within my means.

I've always been a bit confused about what my "means" actually were. When I was a child, I always felt I deserved the nice things everyone else seemed to have. As a college student, my 'means' became how much I would make after college. When I had a high-paying job, it was how much I was earning plus what my home value was speculated to be.

Now, I think I still have the degree and the means to earn money, but have chosen to blaze my own trail and follow my passions, my way, and they just so happen not to be passions that involve piles and piles of steaming cash.

I'm selling my pride and joy Prius, and I'm moving out of my 775/month room in hopes for something half that price, if it exists in this town.

I went to the Toyota dealership to get a quote on my car and fate had it that another woman was there reluctantly trading in her Prius as well. She asked me what I was doing and why, and when I told her I couldn't afford the payments, her companion gave her a hug and said, 'see, you're not the only one.'

Yes, poor, poor Americans, I know. I will be forming the San Francisco PPP support group, People Parting with Priuses.

It actually feels very good going back to my impoverished roots. I believe that when I am ready to handle money responsibly, it will come my way. I managed to make and blow over a quarter million dollars in 3 years. George Bush would be so proud!

Easy come, easy go. Time for the next chapter. I'll go grab my shovel.