In what ways do the Nolan’s make the most out of their lives even though they are poor?

Although her family lives in poverty, Nolan finds joy in the small things in life. She loves to sit on her little perch on the fire escape and watch the world (in her neighbourhood) go by. She likes to wander the neighbourhood stores and do errands for her mother. She likes "sheeny" pickles, their piano and even the conch shell that sits above the living room. I think the biggest factor in Nolan's happiness is that, although poor, her family is loving.