Running on empty

I am officially declaring that I want to live my life in a full manner. I want to get to where I'm living my life with some reserves in the tank. What do I mean? Well, more than just having a full tank of gas.

I want to live NOT paycheck to paycheck. I want to live my life without constantly feeling drained and tired. I want to live my life that I can have time for myself and my family. I want to live a worry-free life. Don't get me wrong...I don't want a life void of fun or anything like that.

When I was younger, I held everything on my shoulders. I had issues with ulcers and stress. I recently decided that most things weren't worth worrying about. I've been told that many people come to this realization when they have a heart-attack or some major medical problem where they realize their problem [life] is terminal. If I die tomorrow, is it going to matter that there's a few dishes in the sink, that there's a bed unmade, or a flower bed that isn't weeded? Not one bit!

I want to live with weekends where I can [mostly] relax. Working all week, then doing massive projects/running around all weekend, and then back to the work week is not a way to live life. If for no other reason than the fact that we are to remember the Sabbath and keep it holy. Never slowing down may be a way to keep up with the Jones's, but that life--THE Rat Race--is a way to NOT efficiently get projects done, or work for that matter.

I want to live within my budget. Having gas cut significantly into my budget means I don't have enough reserves. It is my sincerest hope that I can budget to live off one income (great idea if one person loses a job!), save half of the other income, and use some of what's left for play. That way WHEN gas prices go higher, it isn't a big deal.

I want to live within the time allotted to me. I want to budget my time to have time for my God, my family, and myself.

I hope that sharing this may help some of the rest of you. If you have thoughts on this, please share them!