Where'd the money go?

I was talking to a good friend on facebook and we both agree that the cost of living has gone up right before our eyes. We both couldn't believe the cost of utilities and basic commodities. It's killing the regular working people! Our salaries hadn't gone up, but everything else does. That is not cool especially on a recession! No wonder people resort to payday advances. Loan sharks in my eyes, but a life saver for many.