Hello again, dear readers. It’s been a while.

When I first launched Common Cents Mom, it was more than a blog; it was a place where we had real conversations about the big money questions, shared real-life financial wins and fails, and found empowerment through practical advice rooted in the everyday Canadian experience. I went from being a welfare mom who had just declared bankruptcy to a conversation host, influencer, and Social Media manager. Over the years, we grew a beautiful community, one that supported each other through recessions, budget makeovers, single-parent hustles, and “can-I-really-afford-this?” moments. I was ever so grateful for my community.

And then… life happened. It sucked. Loss upon loss piled up, and this was just before the pandemic.

I took a step back. As I aged, so did the brand deals I had relied on for years. My daughter graduated from high school. I found work outside the social media space. Sometimes, hitting pause is the most financially and emotionally sensible thing we can do. Then an offer came to buy Commoncentsmom. I sold the blog. But the ideas never stopped percolating. Neither did the inbox messages and Facebook DMs asking, “Hey Hollie, where’d you go?” I missed this space more than I realized. Brands still reached out over the years.

So here’s the truth: I’m back and more fired up than ever to help Canadian families (and solo warriors) navigate this world of money with confidence, clarity, and common sense. Most writers and influencers do not write for those on tight budgets. For those of you on that tight budget, this community is your answer.

You can expect:

• No-nonsense budgeting tips that work in today’s cost-of-living crunch. Real numbers, real deal sharing, real how-tos that work.
• Deep dives into RRSPs, TFSAs, and RESPs (because financial literacy is important).
• Reviews of the best tools, apps, and banks for Canadians. I am the woman who first elevated the Flipp and Caddle apps when they launched in Canada.
• Real talk on having fun on a budget, side hustling, and finding joy even in every season. I have had at least 20 side hustles and know how to budget for fun without spending more than I plan for.
• How to prepare for retirement on a budget.
• And yes, even the occasional rant about rising grocery prices

This relaunch isn’t just about content. It’s about reconnecting with you, with purpose, with possibility, so we can grow together as we each prepare for our next chapters.

So, whether you’ve been around since day one or you’re brand new here, welcome. Let’s do this smarter, simpler, and together.