I've decided to track my spending per paycheck and pay period, rather then do it by month. I've set up a spreadsheet that will show what I plan to spend and save from each paycheck, what I actually do from each paycheck, the difference between the two and the cumulative total of spending and extra saving for the year through the current pay period. Seems a little intense, but I think it'll be more accurate. I also plan to do a percentage of planned amount spent through the year so I can see my progress.

I want to keep track of extra savings on the spreadsheet as well as keep track of automatic savings and savings balances on another sheet. (lot of spreadsheets!! I think I might keep handwritten notebook paper records on some things...it's portable and I might stay more motivated)

Spending/Saving Plan for the Year 2009:

Total 401K saving projected (from gross pay): $3,250
Projected Net Spending Income $38,500
Planned IRA savings: $1,200
Planned Freedom Acct savings: $2,600
Planned Christmas Acct savings: $1,000
Planned wealth account savings: $8,000 (!)
Planned Tithes/Offering: $6,000
Planned Mortgage payments: $9,792 + extra $1,000 toward principle
Planned spending for Utilities: $3,600 (doesn't include cable)
Planned spending for Groceries and Household Supplies/Toiletries: $3,200
Planned money to the kid: $1,000 spending, $3,500 college (from 2009 income).

I'll continue to keep a cushion in my checking account, which I do by keeping two account totals (grand total and budget total used for bills...requires a lot of math, but I do love math and am up to the challenge). Grand total includes 'float' (which I think is what Tightwad Kitty called it in her budget plan--thanks!!). (Example: I set aside $140 in the budget for the electric bill but if the bill is actually $100, the difference of $40 is transferred out of the budget balance and remains in the checkbook cushion/grand total to cover when the bill is actually OVER the $140. So far so good.)