max1, correct - engaged with no kids (no plans in the near future either) and yes I do have a mortgage.
konstantin, you make a very valid point to which I probably did not give as much thought to as I should have. but in this ever-changing world I would be inclined to think most industries/workplaces would be experiencing the same. the world is about big business and making money, not the little ants that keep the place running. unfortunate yes, but that's the just way majority of things are in this day and age.