I took today off from work and used a personal day. I had so many errands to do and was once again facing a weekend full of obligations. So today I had my required car emissions test done, went to the bank, picked up some prescriptions for mom, did some much needed shoe shopping (found one pair I liked), looked for some new work clothes but was not successful, had my eye exam (but still need to look for frames) did the grocery shopping, and got my laundry done. Now I need a nap!
All of these expenses were budgeted for, but I did spend more on the shoes then I normally do ($69.00) I have moderate osteoarthritis in my back, hip and neck and I have found that wearing good shoes really makes a difference. The eye exam was covered through my insurance but I am dreading the cost of the glasses. Insurance covers a portion, but I need progressive, no line bifocals and usually get transitions so they darken up to sunglasses when outside. Really expensive. I still have some housework to do tomorrow but I think that on Sunday I might actually have a free day!

Like many folks I have been working since I was 16. I am now 54. Lately, I have really been struggling with the daily grind. It's not that I hate my job, I enjoy my work and I am very grateful to have a good income and job stability. But I find myself longing for my time to be my own. To sleep in on a rainy day, to linger over my coffee in the morning while I catch up on the news. I would like to be able to attend to all of my errands and chores during the week so that my weekends are free and not crammed with obligations. Since I am not financially able to retire yet, I have really been focused on making sure (as sure as I can) that I can retire at age 62. I would want to continue working part time but only 2 days a week. My next blog entry will focus on my thoughts on housing. Do I want to stay where I am? Downsize? There is so much to consider but I am excited to really focus on a plan to achieve my goals.