Single Mom takes in roomate, the "new" America? http://news.yahoo.com/in-a-tough-economy--saving-money-with-roommates.html I like the fact that she is maximizing what she can do, to me this is something Americans tend to be singularly poor at doing. This is somewhat due to approach that emphasizes isolation instead of cooperation. Thing with roomates is there has to be clear, bright lines concerning responsibilities and rights. That saves a lot of trouble and strife.
They took out a home equity line of cretdit to start a family they couldn't afford. Then with two unhealthy children they separated. I think this is a good example of what not to do. Granted its not all her fault, she is still responsible. Counseling before marriage and being financially fit before starting a family are the lessons to be learned here. Good for her for finding a roomy but its not some spectacular act of genius. From experience here, having a roommate isn't all its cracked up to be.