Budgets are tough. Keeping my cheque book balanced is a chore I usually put off until it is time to pay the bills. But I live within my means and my income and expenses usually line up with a few dollars left over for a rainy day fund.
As I attempt to gather up all the receipts and invoices I need to fill out my income tax forms, I get a better idea of how the year has been. But generally I'm aware of my financial situation and change my spending habits to reflect my earnings.
I'm constantly watching what is going on around me and rarely am I surprised by a change. I've been involved in businesses and organizations where I have had to do budget planning and have seen years when unforeseen changes occurred midway. There was always a way to keep things on track by making responsible decisions.
I don't often pay much attention to government budgets, but there are always a few line items that cause people to take notice.
As a creative person and a person who likes to explore this province I love to be surrounded by people with similar passions and many of those in the arts, culture and tourism fields are the most passionate and imaginative people I know. It doesn't come as a surprise when they are outraged by a change to the way they are funded or supported and that there will be an active campaign to garner support.
I live in an area rich in resources. People work hard and make good money, but when the day is done they are enriched emotionally and spiritually by beautiful things nature and creative people have created and promoted.
The film industry was shocked by the budget changes and it didn't take long for them to use their resources and skills to create slick videos to elevate their concerns. They make their message look good and over the years they have made this province look good.
They reach the world by taking a little view of our home to the outside.
People in the tourism industry are also facing changes. They find the best of our home and bring people in to experience the adventure and beauty.
Saskatchewan is a wonderful place to visit, live and learn about. We are richer than we have been in my entire life and I'm proud of the fantastic resources found in the passionate, energetic people who touch my life each day.
