First 100K: August Update – Simple Wins, Slow Joy, Steady Growth

First 100K: Climbing Away – August Update August brought a baby-free weekend (more dates, fewer negotiations about bedtime), with the small human safely in the care of Granny and Grandpa. It reminded me why I’m chasing my First 100K in the first place: freedom. Turns out that “time off” as a parent is a lot … Read more

The Simple Joy of Planning: Your Triple-Happiness Formula

How turning a simple plan into triple the fun can actually boost your mental health—and your day. The Unexpected Fun of Getting Ready to Have Fun There’s something quietly thrilling about planning a day out — especially when that day involves Brighton, sea air, and a bit of sunshine (or drizzle, because, British weather). It’s … Read more

Why the Lifetime ISA Is a Quiet Win for First-Time Buyers

The Flat, the Ladder, and the Bonus That Magically Arrived The first time that LISA bonus hit my account, I just… stared at the screen. I’d done the thing — saved what I could, ignored the house prices that made me want to cry, and set up the account that everyone online either hyped to … Read more

Challenge: Social Media Detox (and Why I Uninstalled Half the Internet)

Out of the Feed, Into the Moment: My Quiet Social Media Detox I didn’t mean to compare my life to someone else’s beach holiday for the third time this week. Or fall into that oddly comforting black hole of kittens on reels. Or spend 15 minutes watching a Facebook video of someone restoring a 90s … Read more

The Simple Bucket System That Made Budgeting Feel Good

Getting Clear on What I Can Spend There’s something quietly reassuring about knowing exactly which part of your money is yours to enjoy without a hint of guilt. After sorting out rent, bills, groceries, and even a little savings and investments, having that clear slice of spending cash feels like a tiny peace treaty with … Read more