East Texans are seeing their budgets shrink thanks to the economy

EAST TEXAS - Far from Wall Street and right here in East Texas the economy is forcing many to rethink how much cash they spend and what they spend it on.

People everywhere have to get creative in order to save. Financial advisor, Scott Boyson, bought a hybrid car just to save. "I do care about the environment, but overall I care about the green in my wallet and I think that's what is key here," he said.

Others may not be going to quite the extremes. "Were not traveling quite as much although I travel in my job," Frank Gillham said. "But were making our trips more productive.

Heads of family said they have to tighten up their budgets the most. Melanie Mekalip, who is preparing for the arrival of her second child, was out shopping with her daughter and said its been hard sticking to a budget. "You just spend what you make and no more," she said.