Spontaneity.

I just bought airline tickets. To where, you might ask? San Francisco! It's a city I've only been to twice, but still absolutely love. I think it's because I've always been there during the same time, - Octoberish - and it always feels like fall. Living in San Diego, you rarely get that fall feeling. There is something about waking up in the morning to crisp air and having to wear a jacket because, well, it's actually cold outside. So, I'm going. And, boy am I excited. Buying airline tickets is scary though. It's one of those oh my gosh I can't go back and change things kinds of purchase. I'm pretty sure I read over all my info at least ten times, but I'm still worried that I got something wrong. Why the distress? The money, of course. Being a grown-up means you have to handle your own money (in case you hadn't noticed yet), and that can be one very scary thing. I've made my share of mistakes, particularly when it comes to not checking my account to make sure I've transfered enough funds. This usually makes me mad because it's not that I don't have any money in my bank account, it's just that I'm too lazy to sign onto my account and actually make sure I've given myself enough funds to keep swiping away. For the most part, I'm okay though, and this is why... I've come up with a system that works well for me. And, while I by no means want to tell you all how to manage your dollars, maybe this will work for you, too. Per paycheck, I give myself $300. This is my spending limit for two weeks for basically everything food, fuel and fun related. The rest, I save. It's been a nice way for me to have fun and still have extra money, just in case. The best part about it is that I can go places like San Fran on a whim and not have to worry about spending too much. There's a ton or great articles about saving money, many of which I'm sure I should refer to more often. I'm pretty sure it's time for me to start a countdown though. 46 days, woohoo! Bring on the paychecks and bring on the days - I'll be in San Fran before I know it!