Loyal readers have probably noticed that I disappeared for about three weeks after posting how I got married on a $5000 budget. I probably should have posted something on the blog, but I was very busy trying to achieve goals #2, 3 and 4 of my 9-week summer productivity challenge. Unfortunately, though I have successfully achieved all three goals, it came at the expense of blogging. The paper is in though, and the thesis is being reviewed by my supervisor, so now I can get back to business so to speak. I still have to defend my thesis in a few weeks time, but the big hurdle of getting it written is so nice to have out of the way. It has actually been really nice to be so productive the last little while. Its a great feeling when you can check things off a list because they are completed, and an even better feeling when you get to the bottom of the list and everything is done.

I want to thank those of you who came to visit Earth and Money during the vacation, and those who have come back since, particularly Modest Money, who I feel is like my personal cheerleader  Thanks to Abstract Aucklander and The Outlier Model for linking to my wedding wrap-up post in their weekly roundups. Much appreciated!

Here’s a look at what I’ve been reading in the blogosphere this week:;

• Daisy over at Add Vodka posted a list of all the things she wants to accomplish once she graduates which is something I’ve been meaning to do (its goal #6 on my productivity challenge).
• Teacher Man at Young and Thrifty talked about how to get your employer to pay for your education. My former employer offered to pay for my current degree but I declined as they wanted me to commit to a 5-year contract in exchange for it. So thankful I didn’t go down that road! That said, it can be worth it if the commitment makes sense for you.
• The Financial Blogger asks if you have to actually enjoy your job? Personally, I live by the motto ‘Work to Live not Live to Work’, which might make one think that any job is fine as long as it provides for the rest of life, but that said, I think it is important to enjoy your job. The more you enjoy your job, the better your overall quality of life will be.
• Lauren at Canadian Budget Binder talks about her private school experience and how it shaped her life financially and otherwise.
• Dominique at Prairie Eco-Thrifter talks about ways to reuse plastic bags, which is timely in the wake of Toronto’s decision to permanently ban plastic bags from the city.

Happy Weekend Everyone!!