Money does not make the world go round, but it sure does help.

My health insurance premiums, copays and meds are all going up. This means I will have to cut back on therapy and somehow find a way to afford the premiums and meds. Winter is coming on and I have no idea how I am going to afford to heat my house. I make too much money for any type of assistance, but I don’t make enough to not worry about bills. I pretty much live paycheck to paycheck. I have a whole $2.37 in my savings. My salary raise this year is not even going to cover my increased insurance premiums. I work at a university hospital and the money is just not there for them to give me. Government cutbacks.

I am starting to really cut corners where I can. Buying store brand soda instead of coke and things like that. It frustrates me because I do work really hard—I put in my time. I have a full time job and a part time job. Also, I am trying to go to school. I am contemplating picking up another part time job for the winter to help cover some expenses that I know are right around the corner. I just question how much I have to give to have a house, car and food. I live in a modest house, drive a modest car…I don’t have any expensive habits or hobbies. I even have 2 college degrees—which means I also have student loans.

Money has never been a high priority to me, but at some point you have to make it a bit of a priority. If I get another part time job, I am not going to be able to continue in school. Education is one thing I value above all else. But it might have to take a second seat to money—at least for the winter.

I don’t know…I guess I am frustrated and just venting. I feel like I work hard and I deserve a warm house, good food, medical care and the opportunity to go to school. Its not like I am asking for a fancy sports car or a big house…just the basics. I just want the basics without having to have 3 jobs and sacrifice my education. I don’t want to work all the time—I want to enjoy life a little too.