The Optimistic Musings of a Pessimist

Happy Things Friday: 19 January

Hi, January 2024. This is Elisabeth. I’m not loving your vibe. It’s me, not you. But can we both agree to hurry up and get to February?

Sigh. There was nothing objectively wrong about this…

Saying Goodbye in Stages (It Still Hurts)

*This post covers the topic of aging parents; I realize many readers may be grieving the loss of loved ones or struggling with the challenges that come with caring for aging parents. If this…

Family, Life, Parenting
Jan, 18, 2024
35 Comments

Favourite Things: January 2024 Edition

I have much to discuss! I feel like my life is overflowing with favourite things lately. Even though it’s not the end of January, I didn’t think I could wait another day to share…

It’s Time To Talk 2023 Finances (Or, Look At My Pretty Pie Chart!)

This is either going to be YOUR TYPE OF POST or a complete snooze fest. If it’s the latter, feel free to skip today’s offering and come back tomorrow. If it’s your “thing” here…

Guest Post: Welcome Back Lisa!!

I don’t remember exactly when Lisa and I crossed internet paths, but it has been lovely to get to know her online through her blog – and offline via text and e-mail – these…

Happy Things Friday: 12 January

Happy Friday. Another day, another week, and we’re now firmly into the new year.

This was a mostly good week. There were some “moments”. Shall I discuss?

Perhaps I’ll start by recalling the morning our toilet…

Happy Things Friday, Misadventures, Thrifting
Jan, 12, 2024
46 Comments

Demerits and Gold Stars: November 2023 – January 2024

Since we’re still emerging from the blur of another holiday season, I’m letting myself off easy and combining two and a half months of demerits and gold stars into a single blog post.

First up,…