Living Large in Texas

Debra and Matt Hetmer of Rockwall, Texas won't be retiring soon. According to an article in USA TODAY, November 7, 2005 the Hetmers owe more than $200,000 in credit card bills, student and car loans and back taxes. In addition they have a $280,000 mortgage on their home which is declining in value. And they pay $400 a month plus annual maintenance and taxes on a time share in Hawaii which they don't visit because they can't afford the airfare.

With five children to feed, cloth and educate the Hetmers have a daunting task to make ends meet on Matt's $72,000 income and Debra's commissions as a self-employed real estate agent.

Texans like to live large and the Hetmers are no exception. But at what price?