Changing values
How these families are changing how they live.
Michael and Paula with Alexandra, 6, and Nicholas, 2
Professions: IT consultant, financial services manager
What's changed: After Michael was laid off last year (he now earns the same income as a consultant), the Parishes doubled their credit card payments to lower their balances and banned new purchases on plastic. Says Paula: "We'll never be complacent about debt again."
NEXT: The Stephenson Family
Last updated May 04 2009: 9:24 AM ET