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💸 9 Realistic College Budgeting Tips That Actually Work
Budgeting in college doesn’t have to be stressful! 💸 In this post, I’m sharing the exact tips that helped me save over $9,000 while working a part-time job — from using apps like Ibotta and Honey to finding great thrifted deals and setting up automatic savings. Whether you’re a student trying to get your finances…
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Things to Do in Stockholm: My Travel Itinerary & Budget-Friendly Guide
Stockholm completely stole my heart! From the charming ferries and historic palaces to budget-friendly museum visits and cozy breakfasts at my hostel, this trip was unforgettable. In this post, I’m sharing my 4-day itinerary, favorite stops like the Nobel and Vasa Museums, and money-saving travel tips to help you make the most of your own…
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Reflections from Sweden: My Grandma’s (Mormor) Words and the Vasa Ship
While visiting the Vasa Museum in Sweden, I stumbled upon one of my grandma’s old diary entries from her own trip in 1986. Her words about fear, history, and the carved lions of the Vasa Ship echoed through time — connecting her reflections with my own experience decades later.
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✈️ From Iowa to Sweden: My First Days in Stockholm
My first few days in Sweden were unforgettable! From breakfast at the cozy Zinkensdamm Hostel to exploring the cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan, this trip was the perfect start to my study abroad adventure in Stockholm. Here’s how I kicked off my Swedish journey — with great food, beautiful views, and a little bit of…
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A Hidden Gem: Exploring Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn completely stole my heart! From medieval streets to seaside views and the best cruise cocktails ever, this two-day getaway from Sweden was pure magic. Here’s how my friends and I explored Estonia — one cobblestone at a time. 🏰✨
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College Throwback: A Night at Johnny’s 🍻
Nothing hits quite like a night at Johnny’s — buffet runs, lemonade refills, and all the Cyclone pride you can handle. A nostalgic love letter to Hilton Magic and the unforgettable spirit of Iowa State. 🌪️❤️
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Inspiration Boards & Unapologetic Role Models
Creating an inspiration board isn’t just about goals — it’s about surrounding yourself with reminders of courage, confidence, and authenticity. These incredible womxn inspire me to live unapologetically and lift others along the way.
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Following My Grandma’s Footsteps in Sweden: Reflections on Equality, Culture & Connection
While reading through my grandmother’s 1986 diary from Sweden, I was struck by how her reflections on equality and freedom still resonate today. From families picnicking on palace lawns to conversations about women’s rights, our experiences — decades apart — beautifully intertwine.
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A Sense of Unity — Connecting with My Grandmother in Sweden
Reading my grandmother’s 1986 diary entry from her trip to Sweden reminded me how deeply connected we are across generations. Walking through the same serene forests she once described, I felt her presence and our shared sense of belonging to the land that shaped our heritage.
Welcome to a softer kind of lifestyle blog
Cozy stories, honest moments, heartfelt travel, and the beauty in everyday life.
Featured Stories
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Easy Irish-Inspired Comfort Recipes for Winter Nights
Warm up your winter with cozy, Irish-inspired comfort foods. From buttery colcannon and easy homemade sausage rolls to a rich Slow Cooker Guinness Beef Stew, these hearty dishes bring a touch of Ireland to your kitchen. Simple, rustic, and full of flavor — perfect for cold nights and busy days.
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Cozy Holiday Traditions I’m Bringing Into Motherhood
Cozy blankets, twinkling lights, and slow Christmas mornings—this year, I’m leaning into simple, meaningful holiday traditions as a mom. From stockings “delivered” by Santa to Butter Braids, Christmas Eve church, family photos with our pup, and intentional gift-giving, these are the sweet, heartwarming rituals that make the season feel like home. Perfect inspiration for families,…
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Bring a Little Irish Magic Into Your Year: My New Gaeilge & English 2026 Planner
Bring a touch of Ireland into your everyday routine with my new 2026 bilingual Irish & English planner and matching journal. Inspired by my own Irish heritage and a meaningful family trip to Ireland, this cozy set blends culture, intentional planning, and the magic of Gaeilge into one beautiful keepsake. Perfect for travelers, heritage lovers,…
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Cupcakes & Tea with Elizabeth 