If I could draw a parallel to where I am in my life's journey, I would say that I'm approaching a ride in an amusement park with the anticipation of the ups and downs that the roller coaster will bring. It looks like the trip to India is moving forward and I'm praying about being able to go. I have a few hurdles to get over in order to make it happen. I have to make sure I have the money to go (it should cost about $2, 000), I have to secure a place for my son to stay since he isn't going, and I have to get approved time off from my job.  I put in a PTO request on Friday. If that doesn't go through, I won't be able to go. I'm especially looking forward to this trip because we're taking an extended lay-over on the return trip back in Israel. We should be there a few days. I've mentioned the trip to a few people I know and all have said they believe that the trip will be life changing. I have no expectation that I will come back the same. I often sit and think about the things that I want to do....so much so that I can make myself frustrated by my lack of movement in that direction. So I want to take some time to rethink my approach to savings and investing and lay out a plan to get my dreams off the ground. Part of that process involves saving up the money I will need to get started (I don't believe in debt). I typically re-assess my finances as the year comes to a close and lay out a game plan. I want to start this project (and I know I'm being vague but I don't want to get specific unity I start it...I don't like talking about what I'm going to do, but rather what I've accomplished) but I also want to start to pay off my mortgage. That seems to be the ongoing issue for me....having goals that compete for the same pot of money. I know I will need to prioritize to make this work and keep me from getting frustrated. Once I get it sorted out, I'll share my game plan.