Mike: one of the great things about being an independent contractor is the ability to take time off whenever you'd like. Naturally, you don't make any money when not accepting loads. Even if that's ok with you, you may have difficulty with a carrier - they pretty much want contractors who are available a good percentage of the time. (Hence: inservice percentages).
And if you find a carrier who will take whatever time you're willing to give, be warned that many of the drivers who earn their living expediting will resent you for taking loads that they feel you don't "need" as much as they do.