family weekend: on a budget

Once upon a time there were two, which meant impulse travelling, impulse shopping and you get the picture – impulse dining. Being able to just get up and go! No questions asked,
except “Where do you want to go on your next trip?” to “What’s the latest in cosmetics?” and “Where’s the newest hipster eatery?”Once upon a time there were two, which meant impulse travelling, impulse shopping and you get the picture – impulse dining. Being able to just get up and go! No questions asked, except “Where do you want to go on your next trip?” to “What’s the latest in cosmetics?” and “Where’s the newest hipster eatery?"

But along came another one and that made three, which meant no longer being able to spend on impulse and more notably not having that carefree attitude that comes with newlywed bliss. We exchanged all that for what money couldn’t buy – a family. Fun does not equate lavish weekend outings, instead it’s walks to the nearest mom ­and ­pop diner, grabbing an ice cream and good old fashion talks (minus the technology).

Discover your neighbourhood on a budget. Go for walks with the family, get to know your local small businesses and make friends. One of our favourite local restaurants is owned by a married couple who make the most delicious South American dishes: inexpensive, fresh and family friendly. Some of the best eateries are small and family owned. No reservations required! Forget the hipster trendy restaurants, which require wait times and sitting elbow to elbow with strangers. Admittingly, I occasionally like to try these hip places on date nights with hubby minus the SUV stroller.

Turn off the cell phone for good old fashion talk time over coffee. A stroll to the waterfront to admire the storefronts and grab an ice cream means window shopping and no impulse temptations. Basically, budgeting for a family of three involves little money but lots of talk time. Step out into your community and discover new places and people. You’ll be surprised how much you can save!

This post was brought to you by Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited via Mode Media Canada. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited.