The Optimistic Musings of a Pessimist

Happy Things Friday: 7 August

It’s 6:30 am on Friday. John is already downstairs on a work call, Indy is sleeping, Belle is nestled in a cabin at camp (with pre-primary to Grade 2 girls, GOD BLESS HER SOUL),…

Tween and Teen Allowance and Income: Our System for Giving, Saving, and Fun Money

A few weeks ago, in a Happy Things Friday post, I mentioned wanting to come up with a more robust savings plan for Belle.

She’s been babysitting fairly frequently, and while I love that she’s…

Money, Budget, Parenting
Aug, 06, 2026
30 Comments

Recent Frugal Wins (Including Free Cheesecake and Discount Sneakers)

A quick(ish) post for your Wednesday with some recent frugal wins.

Free Anniversary Cheesecake

The restaurant where we go to celebrate our wedding anniversary each year always asks (when we’re making a reservation) if we’re celebrating…

Frugality
Aug, 05, 2026
25 Comments

On My Shelf: Books Read July 2026

For years—ever since starting university—my reading stats have absolutely tanked over the summer months.

Because I was doing so much intensive reading during the academic year, I wasn’t thrilled at the thought of reading…

Reading
Aug, 04, 2026
26 Comments

Travel, Ask Me (Almost) Anything, Euro Adventure, Planning
Jul, 30, 2026
16 Comments

Happy Things Friday: 7 August

Tween and Teen Allowance and Income: Our System for Giving, Saving, and Fun Money

Recent Frugal Wins (Including Free Cheesecake and Discount Sneakers)

On My Shelf: Books Read July 2026

Never Have I Ever… Part 19.

Happy Things Friday: 31 July

How We Planned for 110 Days in Europe: Our Itinerary + Travel Planning Tips

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What Long-Term Family Travel in Europe Was Really Like

I’m on The Reframe! Talking 110 Days in Europe, Our Budget + More

Happy Things Friday: 14 August