I ran across this interesting blog from a CNN correspondent: Living on Food Stamps.

CNN correspondent Sean Callebs spent February eating only what could be purchased the amount of money he would be allowed ($176) if he qualified for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).

As noted in the name of the program, the allotment is supposed to be a supplement, not the entire budget. In the current economic downturn, however, it becomes not a supplement, but a mainstay.

It's an interesting read, primarily because many of us don't realize how much we spend on convenience. And Callebs notes that he received many e-mails from people who say "I could do it!" - but they don't HAVE to do it. It's a different story when you HAVE to.

How about it? Could you give up soda pop, fast food, dinner out with friends, the occasional cup of espresso?