Freedom, Fun, and Financial Wellness: Summer on a Budget

Summer is here—and so is the pressure to fill every day with picture-perfect adventures.

But the best summer memories don’t require a big budget. In fact, some of the richest moments come from simple traditions, meaningful celebrations, and time well spent.

This week, I want to share a few ways to enjoy summer, honor Juneteenth, and celebrate freedom—without overspending.

🎉 Juneteenth: A Day of Joy, Remembrance, and Reflection

Juneteenth marks June 19, 1865—the day enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned they were free. That was more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

For me, Juneteenth is a reminder that:

• Freedom is delayed for some longer than others.
  
• Celebration and struggle often go hand-in-hand.
  
• And yes, joy is resistance.

That’s why we celebrate with food, music, history, and togetherness. Whether you attend a local event or start your own tradition, make space for this moment.

🌞 Free (or Nearly Free) Summer Fun Ideas for Families

Whether you're with kids, cousins, or chosen family, here are a few budget-friendly ideas:

• City parks + splash pads (bring your own snacks)
  
• Free museum days or local cultural events
  
• Juneteenth parades, festivals, and community cookouts
  
• Nature scavenger hunts or family fitness challenges
  
• Library events and summer reading programs
  
• DIY backyard movie night (just add popcorn)
  
  

🧠 Pro tip: Let kids help plan the day. Ask them what free things they’d love to do—and watch how creative they get when cost isn’t the focus.

💡 Keep Your Budget Intact (and Joy High)

Before you say yes to every invitation or summer splurge, take a minute to check in with your spending habits.

🧠 Try this: Use ChatGPT to quickly analyze your last 90 days of spending. It can help you spot patterns, track your takeout habit (no judgment!), and get clear on where your money’s going.

📥 Download my free cheat sheet:
“How to Use ChatGPT to Analyze Your Spending”
👉 Grab it here

This resource will walk you step-by-step through pasting your bank transactions into ChatGPT and asking the right questions to get smart, instant feedback.

🦄 PS: Make Summer a Money Adventure

If you’re looking for ways to keep kids learning (and laughing), don’t forget Madeline’s Money Adventure—our kid-approved book that makes saving, spending, and sharing feel like fun, not a chore.

🎉 Check it out here