I have been doing pretty well at not staying within the budget I set out for myself at the beginning of the year of $200 per week discretionary spending.

It's always something I didn't think of.

Last week I renewed my magazine subscription to Kiplingers for another 3 years for $50. I sent my mother flowers after her surgery for another $50. And my wife got a haircut for $40. (she does this every couple months)

This week I stocked up on my multivitamins, $40, for the next few months. I have cholesterol issue so I get some heart healthy GNC stuff that works pretty good. I got a piece of exercise equipment to help me stay in shape when I don't have time to hit the gym, $50. And I had an unplanned work dinner for $20.

Oh well, hopefully most of these things will pay off in the end and I'll have a few light weeks.

I also got word that I am deploying this summer. Though this is not so good news for my family, it will in the end help our finances as I will not need to be fed or entertained. Plus, the tax-free pay and extra combat pay perks always add an extra $750 or so a month to my income.

All in all, I should have no issues taking care of my 2008 todo's...