How are you dealing with the tough economy?

At the end of September, I was laid off from my job; my fiance was laid off from his the week before. We're dealing with the tough times by making the most of them: I'm finding inexpensive, creative projects, like painting, to do around the house, and I'm staying in touch with friends old and new. Talking with them has given me a healthy perspective and helped me realize that although times are difficult right now, we still have what really matters.

this tip comes from Real Simple reader PAIGE YOUNGS, Atlanta, Georgia.