[Linus]

Eep.. And we're about to move to California this summer. K will be looking for work in the social work field and has connections so we're hopeful for that. I'm lucky because my work can be pretty much done from anywhere (and the company is going full steam ahead with a work visa). I know some might view me as taking a job away from someone else; the reality is, however, that I'm pretty specialized in my knowledge and skills so puts me in a bit of a unique situation.

That said, I'm leaning towards more of a split: some areas are in a recession while others depression (e.g., Michigan and California have both been suffering extensively for a while now, especially Michigan). I think more support for the smaller businesses (traditionally the backbone of any nation and the driving force behind pushing recession/depressions away) would go a long way, regardless of where in the country someone is. The past is what put us here but we need to move beyond that and find ways -- if necessary -- on our own to support ourselves and get beyond where the world is now. Kiva is one and I'm sure there are others as well.

What small business ideas can we toss around to help each other get on our feet using skills we have?