48 Hours in Vegas: An Insane Side Quest

48 Hours in Vegas: An Insane Side Quest

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48-hour side quest to Vegas. Absolutely insane.

When one of your favorite EDM artists announces a show at the Sphere, you grab a bestie and go.

No overthinking.
Just “f*ck it, book it.”

Give the girls a glass of wine and two hours of planning and suddenly you have flights, a hotel, and a weekend in Vegas.

Viva Las Vegas.

I’m in a phase of life where I’m all about experiences, and seeing Illenium at the Sphere might honestly be a top five lifetime experience for me. It was INSANE (literally the only word we used all weekend).

This was a quick 48-hour trip. No PTO needed.

Barely any sleep.
Voices gone.
New friends made.
A million steps walked.
Overstimulated by casino machines.

Vegas honestly feels like an alternate universe.

Night One: 

We flew into Las Vegas and checked into our hotel, The Luxor.

After a quick dinner at a Mexican spot inside the hotel, we got dressed and headed down to the hotel bar and bellied up at one of the hotel bars.

We befriended the bartender and the people sitting nearby and ended up meeting Adam and his friend, one of whom would later become our Sphere show buddy for the next night.

From there we headed to LIV Nightclub to see John Summit.

When we arrived, the floor was suddenly VIP-only (classic Vegas), so we squeezed into a decent rail spot and made a few random friends along the way.

Next thing we know?

Security escorts us into bottle service… and of course we weren’t going to say no. 

We ended up staying out until around 4 AM dancing and singing the night away.

Day Two: 

Four hours of sleep later… we were back out.

Vegas is the type of place where you just wander and see what happens, so we spent the day walking the Strip, exploring shops, grabbing food, and trying not to melt in sensory overload.

Eventually we reunited with our new friends Adam and Katelyn at the Venetian for drinks.

And not just any drinks.

Custom Illenium espresso martinis.

The perfect pregame before the main event.

The Sphere: Illenium & Wooli

Nothing could have prepared me for this show.

The Sphere itself is insane, but seeing Illenium (and Wooli) there was on another level entirely.

We originally had tickets in Section 110, Row 30, which honestly weren’t great seats for the visuals (definitely look up seat reviews before buying).

But we noticed two better seats in Section 100, Row 20 that hadn’t sold… and somehow managed to relocate ourselves.

(Do not recommend risking it like that. Definitely research seats beforehand.)

But wow.

Absolutely worth it.

Wooli opened (so amazing even he got emotional), and then Illenium came on and the entire place exploded. 

The visuals.
The lasers.
The sound.

Fire.
Smoke.
Confetti.

Live instrumentals and singers (insane for an EDM show).

Graphics wrapping around the entire Sphere, literally taking us through stories and to other dimensions. 

It honestly felt like being inside the show.

Our jaws were basically wide open the entire time, except when we were singing along (half my videos are ruined due to my singing). 

Even if you’re not into EDM, the Sphere experience alone is something I think anyone would find incredible.

It completely changed how I’ll view shows going forward. No rave will ever top this. 

Day Three: 

After the pure amazement of the night before, it was time to pack up and check out.

Morning workout and a walk for me.
Starbucks.
Packing up and checking out.

We grabbed breakfast at a random little hole-in-the-wall place before heading to the pool for the afternoon.

Since our flight wasn’t until later, we booked a ResortPass day pass at the Fontainebleau pool for around $30.

Honestly one of the best travel hacks.

You can store your bags there and relax by a nice pool instead of killing time at the airport.

Highly recommend if you have a late flight.

Vegas Notes & Travel Tips:

A few things we learned along the way:

  • Taxis are often cheaper and faster than Uber or Lyft.
  • Vegas resorts are confusing. You will get lost. Multiple times. Plan extra time.
  • Escalators everywhere (even outdoor sidewalks), long hallways, and ride shares take forever to arrive — add extra time to everything.
  • LIV tip: If you’re planning to go, consider using a promoter instead of buying tickets directly. The floor can quickly become VIP-only.
  • Sphere seating matters a lot. Our original seats (Section 110 Row 32) were not great for viewing the full visuals. If you go, spend the extra money for a better section in the 100s or 200s with clear views.
  • The Luxor review: Pretty run down and the elevators take forever. Also everything is slanted because it’s a pyramid, including the elevators and walls. If you’re prone to motion sickness… maybe skip it. The pool was also closed while we were there.
  • ResortPass: Perfect for killing time before flights and checking out other hotels.
  • Illenium designed his 2026 album Odyssey around his Las Vegas Sphere residency and it’s absolutely amazing. The album is 10x better after the show, I’m not sure how I’ll ever recover to be honest.

Final Thoughts:

Outside of the Sphere (or maybe John Summit)… I honestly never need to go to Vegas again.

But for the Sphere? I would absolutely come back.

Seeing Wooli and Illenium there was the most insane show I’ve ever experienced. I still barely even have any words. 

And yes, “insane” was definitely the most used word of the trip.

But more than anything, this weekend reminded me how lucky I am.

To be a single girl in her mid-twenties able to do things like this.

To have friends to say “yes” with.


To meet strangers who become part of the story.


To laugh until your voice is gone.

The inside jokes.


The random adventures.


The memories.

This life I get to live still blows my mind sometimes.

I’ll never get over this quick little 48-hour side quest to Vegas.

And honestly?

I’m probably not going to stop talking about it anytime soon.

A Girls Trip to Guanacaste, Costa Rica

A Girls Trip to Guanacaste, Costa Rica

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Where We Went for Ease & Relaxation

This was my second time in Costa Rica. I traveled over the President’s Day holiday for a 5-day trip with three full days. We booked through Costco which was actually the best thing ever if you want reasonably priced, a beautiful location, and zero thinking or planning required while on vacation.

Perfect weather all week. 90s and sunny (think UV 12).

My friend and I went into this trip with one intention: to relax. We didn’t want plans. We wanted sunshine and ease. And we got exactly that.

Once we figured out we needed to snag pool chairs early, we slipped into our routine and made friends with other guests and our bartender Halbert.

Day 1:

  • Fly into Liberia from MSP — 5-hour direct flight
  • Customs — took 2 hours from landing
  • Drive — 1 hour 45 minutes to JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa
  • Check in
  • Change into swimsuits for a quick swim and sun session
  • Sunset and drinks on the beach
  • Dinner at a casual resort restaurant

Immediate exhale.

Day 2:

  • Workout at the resort gym
  • Breakfast (included in stay and very good)
  • Grab pool chairs (first full day was a beach day for us)
  • Lunch at the pool grill
  • Beach walks and ocean swim
  • Watch the sunset
  • Dinner at the resort restaurant

Simple. Easy. Exactly what we came for.

Day 3:

  • Grab pool chairs (early bird gets the good spots)
  • Workout at the resort gym & walk on paved trails
  • Breakfast & coffee
  • Beach walks and ocean swim
  • Lunch from our pool chairs
  • Make friends at the pool
  • Make friends with Halbert (bartender) free drinks appear
  • Accidentally wore aloe instead of sunscreen all day… whoops
  • Watch the sunset
  • Dinner at the resort restaurant

The sun in Costa Rica is no joke. Label your sunscreen.

Day 4:

  • Grab pool chairs
  • Beach yoga (included in the resort package)
  • Breakfast & coffee — discovered the make-your-own smoothie bar in the downstairs breakfast area (why did we find this on day four?)
  • Beach walks and ocean swim
  • Lunch from our pool chairs
  • More time with Halbert — free drinks and upgraded chairs
  • Shuttle to Tamarindo from the resort (~30 minutes)
  • Stopped to see monkeys on the way
  • Walk around Tamarindo
  • Dinner at Namu — right on the beach, live music, great drinks and menu
  • Watched the sunset over sailboats
  • Walked around town
  • Shuttle back to the resort

Tamarindo was fun and lively, but noticeably busier. More vendors. More bugs. It made us appreciate staying in Guanacaste even more — the beach there wasn’t crowded, no one was selling anything, and we had zero bug issues.

Day 5:

  • Workout at the resort gym & walk on paved trails
  • Breakfast & coffee
  • Depart for airport (~2-hour drive)

Notes + Things I’d Tell You:

  • Book through Costco.
    • Ocean + pool view room is worth it.
    • Two beds + balcony.
    • $25/day food credit.
    • Shuttle included to and from the resort.
    • Flights, resort, and transportation all bundled.
    • Low maintenance. No thinking required.
  • Stay in Guanacaste if you want ease. The beach is quiet and peaceful compared to Tamarindo.
  • Resort dinner food (aside from breakfast) isn’t amazing. It gets repetitive and expensive. That said, we were shocked our total food bill for the week was under $200 for two people. (Shoutout Halbert for sneaking me free drinks.)
  • Breakfast included at the resort is great.
  • 90s and sunny all week.
  • Save your chairs early or you’ll end up on the outer beach rows.
  • Water from the machines at the resort is safe to drink.
  • Sparkling water with a squeeze of lime was my go-to. But a skinny marg or Paloma absolutely slaps in 90-degree sunshine.
  • Mind your breakfast when eating outdoors. A bird stole my omelet one morning. Nature is humbling.
  • Label your sunscreen vs. aloe. I cannot stress this enough.

All in all, this was the perfect, easy girls trip. No pressure to explore. No itinerary to follow. Just sun, saltwater, workouts, long conversations, and early nights.

Pura Vida remains a state of mind.

Thank you sun, beach, and fresh air for bringing me back to life. 🤎

2025 Reflection & Insights

2025 Reflection & Insights

by Gifted With Grace ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Every year, as long as I can remember, I choose a word to guide me.

Not a resolution. Not a rigid goal. Just a word. Something to return to when life feels loud, fast, or overwhelming.

For 2025, my word was Soften.
Ease. Grace. Intentionality.

And I’m happy to report back: I did, in fact, soften.

I loosened my grip. I planned less. I said yes more freely and no when I needed to. I gave myself more grace than ever before. I stopped forcing timelines and started trusting flow. Somewhere along the way, I became a little more Type B… and a lot more at peace.

This year wasn’t about doing more or proving anything. It was about allowing life to meet me where I was. About letting moments unfold instead of managing every detail. And somehow, even with less planning, less pressure, and fewer expectations, I still had one of the most full, meaningful years.

As I look back on 2025, I see a year shaped by softness through lessons learned, moments that shifted me, and experiences that weren’t on my bingo card but ended up changing me anyway.

This reflection is my attempt to capture that: the lessons, the surprises, and the quiet becoming that happened when I chose ease over control.

25 lessons from 2025:

  1. Girls nights are medicine.
    Never underestimate the healing power of laughter and connection with the girls.
  2. Tend to your own garden.
    Everyone is in a different season of life. Don’t let comparison distract you from your growth.
  3. Let them. Let me.
    Release what you can’t control and refocus on your own happiness.
  4. Life gives you what you need, not always what you want.
    You receive what you need when you’re ready, even if it doesn’t look how you expected or hoped.
  5. Your emotions are information.
    When you slow down and listen, your body will tell you when something is off or deeply right.
  6. Love isn’t only romantic.
    It’s friendship, self-trust, community, kindness, and the small moments that make life feel full.
  7. Stay open, you never know who you’ll meet.
    Some of the most meaningful connections arrive unexpectedly.
  8. Rest is necessary.
    Slowing down is essential for clarity, regulation, and longevity. Rest before the burnout, not after.
  9. New experiences create new perspectives.
    Say yes to new places, new things, and spontaneous adventures.
  10. Choose experiences over things.
    Music, travel, and shared moments outlast anything you can buy.
  11. Who you surround yourself with matters.
    Spend time with expanders, supporters, and people who believe in your growth.
  12. It’s never too late to pivot.
    You can change careers, dreams, paths, or versions of yourself at any time.
  13. At the end of the day, you always have yourself.
    Everything else is secondary to your relationship with you. Show up for yourself.
  14. You are not responsible for others’ happiness.
    You don’t have to fix, carry, or absorb what isn’t yours. Boundaries matter.
  15. Someone is always watching.
    Keep showing up and staying real, it matters more than you know.
  16. Balance is something you create, not something you find.
    It takes intention, boundaries, and regular recalibration.
  17. Slow down before life forces you to.
    Notice the signs early and listen before you’re forced to pause.
  18. What’s falling apart is often making space.
    Endings clear room for what’s meant to stay and make room for what hasn’t arrived yet.
  19. Sometimes all you need is a hug.
    Not advice. Not fixing. Just presence and being held as you are.
  20. Work friends matter.
    They make the everyday lighter, more human, and more fun.
  21. Give yourself grace when starting something new.
    Progress may feel slow, but growth is happening beneath the surface.
  22. Quality over quantity, always.
    This applies to friendships, food, clothes, workouts, experiences, and commitments.
  23. Lead with grace.
    Be the bigger person, leave people better than you found them, and remember you never know what someone is carrying.
  24. You can reinvent yourself as often as you need.
    You’re not stuck. Try, evolve, release, repeat.
  25. Relationships are built one conversation at a time. Mentorship, networking, and friendship all begin the same way: showing up as yourself, asking questions, and being genuinely interested in others.

Things that were not on bingo card:

  1. A new job opportunity that practically fell in my lap (with the help of networking)
  2. Hosting + co-hosting multiple community events (more of this in 2026!)
  3. Becoming a rave girl (I went to 10+… so fun!)
  4. Speaking on two panels (and actually enjoying it)
  5. Landing social media clients outside of my 9–5
  6. Getting a new car (because the last one got totaled)
  7. Friendship shifts + unexpected new friends
  8. Dog sitting 14 dogs (it’s my side personality now)
  9. Making a group of friends at my apartment (college roommate vibes)
  10. Work friends becoming real-life friends
  11. Becoming known for journal prompts + self-reflection
  12. Hitting 1,000+ followers on TikTok + Instagram
  13. Trips to Costa Rica, San Diego, Wisconsin Dells, Eau Claire, the UP, London & Oxford
  14. Being a podcast guest on Deep Talk
  15. A 26th birthday surprise (I feel so loved)
  16. Joining a board as an ambassador helping connect professionals across the Twin Cities
  17. Tapping into tools like Human Design, astrology, and intuitive tarot to better understand myself, my gifts, and how I’m meant to move through the world
  18. One very educational situationship (a good reminder that my heart still works!)

Top 10 Moments That Changed Me:

  1. Two Friends Concert – what unexpectedly sparked my love for raves, joy, music, movement, and being fully in the moment.
  2. Cost Rica Retreat – A reset for my nervous system. Space to slow down, reconnect with myself, and remember what it feels like to be grounded and present.
  3. Co-Facilitating a Circle – The first time I led journaling prompts in a group setting. A new gift unlocked. Holding space and guiding reflection felt natural and right.
  4. Social Media for The Dot – Reawakening a creative outlet I didn’t realize how much I missed. This brought me back to storytelling, creativity, and using my voice again.
  5. Situationship – A reminder that my heart is open and capable of love again after a long-term relationship, even when it’s messy, confusing, and unfinished.
  6. Getting My Car Totaled – A true breaking point after already feeling like I had crashed out. A wake-up call about slowing down, rebuilding stability, and the importance of having a safety net.
  7. Bubbles & Bouquets Party – A true breaking point after already feeling like I had crashed out. A wake-up call about slowing down, rebuilding stability, and the importance of having a safety net.
  8. Solo Concert – Learning I can do things alone and still have an amazing time. Quietly empowering and confidence-building.
  9. Starting a New Job – Trusting myself enough to admit my old but familiar role was draining instead of energizing. Networking, putting myself out there, and watching that effort turn into something new.
  10. Outgrowing Friendships – Accepting that not every friendship is meant to come with me into every season. Learning that making new friends in adulthood takes courage, sending the DM, saying yes, and showing up, and trusting that the right people will meet me there.

When I chose Soften as my word, I didn’t know exactly what it would ask of me. I just knew I needed more grace, more room to breathe, to feel, to change my mind.

Looking back now, I see how that softness showed up everywhere. In how I moved through relationships. In how I let go of expectations. In how I allowed life to surprise me. This year reminded me that you don’t have to grip life tightly to live it fully.

As I carry these lessons forward, I’m taking the ease, the trust, and the intentionality with me along with the reminders that some of the best moments come when you stop trying to force them.

If you’re reflecting on your own year, I hope you ask yourself not just what you did but how you moved through it. Where did you soften? Where could you next year?

Here’s to the years that shape us in ways we only understand in hindsight and to stepping forward with a little more grace, clarity, and trust than before. 🤎

London & Oxford Diaries:

London & Oxford Diaries:

by Gifted With Grace ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

September 2025

Traveling with family means packing not just suitcases, but also a mix of personalities, dynamics, and quirks. At first, it felt like we were still finding our rhythm, but once we settled in, the trip took on a groove of its own. Ten days was just the right amount for London and Oxford. While I loved the beauty of Oxford, my heart belongs to the city. London has a pulse that just doesn’t compare.

Day 1 – Friday: Arrival + Notting Hill

We arrived at Heathrow and took the Heathrow Express to Paddington. Pro tip: you can take a black cab or the tube from there, but the tube itself is such an easy way to travel.

Once we settled into our house for the week, our first real outing was Notting Hill — colorful streets, tote bags, quilted jackets, and those dreamy storefronts you see in movies. It was a “pinch me, I’m here” kind of afternoon. We ended the day with dinner at Sunday in Brooklyn, easing into London with good food.

Day 2 – Saturday: Westminster & Shopping

We jumped right into sightseeing with a tour of Westminster — seeing Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament up close was a dream.

After lunch at a café, we stopped at Blank Street Coffee for a caffeine boost before a shopping adventure around Bond Street, Oxford Circus, and Piccadilly. London’s shopping scene is unmatched — even browsing feels like an event.

Day 3 – Sunday: Towers, Markets, Bridges

This day was stacked. We started with breakfast at Mulberries (our fave cafe) before heading to Tower Bridge for sightseeing and a tour then walking across to the Tower of London and Crown Jewels.

After seeing these sites, we wandered through Borough Market for lunch (a food lover’s dream – get the chocolate covered strawberries) and spent the afternoon at Camden Market. The markets are busy, eclectic, and full of personality — just like London itself.

Day 4 – Monday: Buckingham, Windsor & Soho Nights

This was an early start: up at 6:30 AM for a Buckingham and Windsor Palace tours.

Later, we explored Soho, shopped, and had dinner at Dishoom — one of those meals you keep thinking about later. We capped off the night with drinks at Gordon’s Wine Bar, London’s oldest wine bar. Dark, cave-like, and buzzing with energy — this ended up being my favorite food-and-drink memory of the whole trip.

Day 5 – Tuesday: Marylebone, Parks, & Notting Hill Again

Breakfast at The Monocle Café started the day right, followed by coffee at Boxcar and browsing Marylebone High Street. Sézane, Caroline Gardner, Daunt Books, and Le Labo (get the London perfume) — this neighborhood stole my heart.

We strolled past Regent’s Park and Hyde Park, taking in greenery and quiet moments before heading back to Notting Hill for another dose of charm. Lunch at Farm Girl, wandering Westbourne Grove, and later dinner at The Ned, a stunning historic bank building turned dining spot, made this day feel like the perfect blend of city bustle and cozy escapes.

Day 6 – Wednesday: To Oxford (Woodstock)

We left London and moved into the countryside, staying at a cozy house in Woodstock. The vibe shifted immediately — slower, more local, surrounded by history.

We explored Woodstock, grabbed coffee at Missing Bean, had wine at The Tipsy Palace, and dinner at Brothertons Brasserie. After the fast pace of London, this felt grounding and calm.

Day 7 – Thursday: Walking Oxford

Our walking tour with an Oxford alum went through the Covered Market, Radcliffe Camera, Bodleian Libraries, Hertford Bridge, and the Bridge of Sighs. The mix of students, history, and architecture made Oxford feel alive.

Lunch at the a local pub, then climbing St Mary’s Tower for views of the Radcliffe Camera was another standout.

We ended with book browsing at Blackwell’s before dinner at The Ivy.

Day 8 – Friday: Cirencester & Bibury

A countryside day trip! Cirencester was full of charming shops — I picked up a new sheep fur and found a lovely little organic skincare shop. Bibury was as picturesque as the photos suggest. Arlington Row looked like something straight from a postcard. To be honest, 30 minutes was enough there, but it was worth the stop.

We wrapped the day with tapas and wine at the local tavern — one of those slow, cozy evenings where nothing is rushed.

Day 9 – Saturday: Blenheim & Woodstock

We walked through Blenheim Palace and Park, then back to Woodstock for coffee and crepes at the High Street Cafe. The countryside rhythm had set in, and the day was more about wandering than ticking off lists.

Day 10 – Sunday: Home Again

Time to head back. The trip felt full but not overwhelming — a balance of city buzz, countryside calm, and family moments that became inside jokes (like my grandma unknowingly wearing my mom’s shoes for an entire day).

Reflections & Takeaways

London reaffirmed itself as one of my favorite cities — Marylebone and Notting Hill charmed me most, Gordon’s Wine Bar won my heart, and the Tube was the unsung hero of the trip. My biggest regret was not staying closer to the city and not catching a West End show. Next time, those are at the top of the list.

Oxford and the Cotswolds brought slower, cozier moments. Woodstock felt wonderfully local, Bibury looked like a fairytale, and Cirencester surprised me with its shops.

Traveling with family always brings a mix of chaos and closeness, but it’s those quirks — like the shoe swap mishap — that make the memories even sweeter. Ten days was just enough, and if I had to pick one favorite: it’s London, always London.

Closing the Chapter on My First Job Post-College: Reflections on My Time at Turnberry

Closing the Chapter on My First Job Post-College: Reflections on My Time at Turnberry

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In September 2021, I was a college senior at CSB/SJU, nervous but excited to accept my first full-time job with ThreeBridge Solutions, set to begin after graduation in June 2022. Somewhere between then and my first day, the company rebranded to Turnberry Solutions—which would become the company I’d call home for the next three years.

Now, a little over three years later, I’m closing this chapter—and what a chapter it has been.

From Bootcamp to Business Impact

I joined Turnberry Crew, an innovative talent program focused on developing high-performing junior consultants in the early years of their consulting careers. I didn’t fully grasp what IT consulting meant during our onboarding bootcamp—and, thankfully, neither did the girl next to me (who quickly became a great friend). We figured it out as we went, supported by a strong foundation of resources, encouragement, and a shared drive to grow.

What I Appreciated About Crew

Crew gave me room to explore and grow. I appreciated:

  • Training and development that made consulting feel less intimidating
  • The knowledge that roles were temporary, and change was part of the experience
  • Unlimited PTO (yes, I took advantage of it!)
  • Supportive managers and engaged client directors
  • Crew Happy Hours, Coffee Roulettes, and First Fridays that built connection beyond the work
  • The opportunity to contribute at big corporations, while still feeling part of a small, tight-knit crew

What Was Hard About Crew

Not everything came easy, and consulting stretched me in ways I didn’t expect. I had to navigate:

  • The uncertainty of “what’s next” between projects (thankfully, I never had a gap)
  • Frequent client on- and offboarding
  • Balancing two sets of expectations—from the client and from Turnberry
  • Utilization targets and the stress they can bring
  • Interviewing for new roles once contract was coming to an end
  • Learning how to build credibility quickly, only to start over again somewhere new

And still, every challenge brought growth.

My Client Journey

Over three years, I had the opportunity to work on three client projects:

Wells Fargo

At Wells Fargo, I crafted and distributed a biweekly newsletter to over 3,000 people—my first real taste of internal communications at scale. What started as writing evolved into so much more:

  • Planning and executing a virtual conference with over 4,000 attendees
  • Launching communications as a shared service across teams
  • Supporting video production, SharePoint migration, and process documentation
  • Becoming the calm presence my team could rely on—someone they were “happy to have at Wells”

Allianz Technology

At Allianz, I supported the Third-Party Risk Management (TPRM) function, completing over 2,000 outsourcing assessments. This project taught me the power of clear communication, stakeholder alignment, and leading with influence, even when business owners weren’t eager to comply.
Some highlights:

  • Closed three major audit findings with a quick turnaround time
  • Helped segment over 250 vendor engagements
  • Gained CEO approval on a business case for tool adoption and co-led implementation
  • Took the lead on tracking and reporting for critical initiatives

GeoBlue

Most recently, I joined GeoBlue to support their marketing operations during a rebrand. I managed tactical projects, coordinated with vendors, optimized automation tools, and helped streamline campaign workflows. This role gave me a closer look at marketing tech and systems thinking—two areas I now want to continue growing in.

Beyond the Projects: What Made the Difference

Some of my most meaningful memories and growth moments came from what happened outside the day-to-day tasks:

  • Joining the Well & Able Executive Board as Communications & Marketing Chair—and later as Co-Champion—promoting wellness and fostering connection across Turnberry
  • Participating in over 15 training sessions and enrolling in additional leadership development through the Crew Leadership Academy
  • Attending First Fridays, Crew Bootcamp, social hours, and building friendships that stretched across projects and cities
  • Being trusted by managers to take initiative, lead meetings, and bring clarity to chaos

What I Learned

I’ve learned:

  • To navigate ambiguity with grace—pun fully intended
  • That being detail-oriented and thoughtful is a superpower
  • How to communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels
  • That consulting is about people first—relationships, trust, and responsiveness
  • To trust myself, speak up, and stretch outside my comfort zone

The People Who Shaped This Chapter

To the people who made this experience unforgettable—thank you. 

It really is about who you work with. The teammates who become friends, the managers who mentor you, the clients who trust you, the peers who cheer you on—all of it makes a difference. This chapter was richer, more meaningful, and more enjoyable because of the people I had the chance to work alongside.

What I’m Taking With Me

Personally:

  • Confidence in who I am and how I work
  • A clearer sense of what I want in my career (and what I don’t)
  • Lifelong friendships and a deeper connection to the professional world

Professionally:

  • Real-world experience managing projects, building communication strategies, and supporting complex organizational change
  • A portfolio of work experience and lasting results I’m proud of
  • Skills that will carry me into whatever’s next—project coordination, stakeholder management, cross-functional collaboration, and more

Looking Ahead

As I close this chapter, I leave with gratitude, growth, and excitement for what’s next. This role held me through so much life—many trips, moves, growth, hard days, and big wins. It was never perfect, but it was mine—and it shaped me.

To anyone stepping into their first post-grad job: it doesn’t have to be your dream job to be meaningful. Every meeting, every project, every new challenge—there’s something in it for you. If you’re lucky, you’ll leave knowing more about yourself, your values, and your direction.

Here’s to the next chapter.

With gratitude,

Grace

Closing the Doors on the Job That Held Me Through So Much Life

Closing the Doors on the Job That Held Me Through So Much Life

by Gifted With Grace ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

A little over two years ago, I walked through the doors at Allianz thinking I was just signing on to help with a three-month data cleanup project. I had no idea I was stepping into two of the most transformative years of my life.

What started as a short-term contract quickly turned into so much more. More learning, more growth, more life than I ever expected to live while working on a project in Third Party Risk Management.

In my two years here, I:

  • Worked under three different managers, each with their own leadership style and lessons
  • Supported legal, risk, and compliance initiatives across the business
  • Completed over 2,000 third-party risk management assessments with internal stakeholders
  • On- and off-boarded multiple colleagues
  • Navigated mostly remote work while still building real relationships
  • Took on new responsibilities, earned two raises, and was promoted once
  • Learned to work with all kinds of personalities — and grew stronger because of it

But what made this experience unforgettable wasn’t just the work. It was everything that happened outside of it, too.

The Life I Lived While Working This Job

These past two years held some of my biggest personal milestones and growing pains. While working full-time, I also:

  • Moved out of my parents’ house
  • Got my first apartment with a partner
  • Went through a life-changing breakup
  • Moved into my own place — this time, solo
  • Took on multiple leadership roles outside of work
  • Spoke on three professional panels
  • Went on ten trips
  • Started dog sitting (seriously, so many dogs)
  • Made so many new friends — both through work and beyond
  • Rediscovered my love for yoga
  • Supported my sister as she graduated from high school
  • Cried and smiled more times than I can count
  • Went to ten concerts
  • Dated… a lot
  • Showed up for early mornings, late nights, and everything in between

These walls — virtual and physical — held me through it all. This role became a container for my growth, in ways that went far beyond my job description.

The People Who Made It What It Was

I’ll never forget the emergency “calls” and “meetings” that doubled as therapy sessions, the weekly help desk calls that became running jokes, or the long happy hours that turned colleagues into friends.

To the Turnberry–Allianz crew: You turned work into community. Thank you for showing up for each other the way we did.

To my manager: Thank you for being the most supportive boss I’ve ever had. Your example of grace, strength, and leadership is one I’ll carry with me. I truly aspire to be like you.

To the ever-growing circle of work friends: You’re more than coworkers. You’re lifelong people. I’m so glad our paths crossed here.

And to Allianz: Thank you for giving me space to grow — professionally, emotionally, and personally.

A Full-Circle Moment

I’ll always remember interviewing for this job while I was up north at the cabin. Thank gawd I packed a collared linen shirt, found a curling iron, and threw on some makeup… because it led me here.

Thank You to the Past Two Years

Thank you for:

  • The best group of work friends I’ve had to date
  • Mentorship opportunities that shaped me
  • Countless new connections
  • A chance to learn, lead, and fail safely
  • Teaching me how to navigate challenging conversations and personalities
  • Encouraging me to step up — and step out
  • Letting me be a human, not just a headcount

So much life has happened in the past two years. I’m beyond grateful to my client and employer for being part of the backdrop of that chapter.

Now, it’s time for what’s next and I can’t wait! ❤

San Diego: Sunshine, Salt Air, and So Many Steps

San Diego: Sunshine, Salt Air, and So Many Steps

by Gifted With Grace ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

What good things might come your way this week?

For me, it was the trip I booked during the winter blues back home in Minnesota—an escape to San Diego during the last week of April that gave me sunshine, fresh perspective, and more than 20,000 steps a day.

I stayed in Pacific Beach, just a short walk from both the bay and the ocean, which made it easy to start every morning with a beachside stroll and end the day chasing sunsets. The weather was mostly in the 60s with a mix of light rain and overcast skies. It cooled off at night, so a jacket was essential, but the final day brought full sunshine and that classic San Diego glow.

And I had the best tour guide: my cousin Nora, who’s lived in San Diego for a few years and went to college in California. She knows all the best spots and neighborhoods worth wandering—and lucky for me, she loves to walk as much as I do.

From coastal hikes to local coffee shops, vibrant neighborhoods to hidden trails, this city gave me space to breathe, reset, and move. I followed the sun, found new favorite spots, and left with sandy shoes, tired feet, and a full heart.

Friday: North Park → Pacific Beach → Little Italy

Saturday: PB → Little Italy → Escondido → Sunset Cliffs

  • Morning coffee from The Grounds in PB
  • Walk along the bay and ocean
  • Strolled the Little Italy farmers market and art fair
  • Brunch at Coco Maya – Instagram vibes, good mimosas, and rooftop
  • Spent the afternoon sipping wine in Escondido
  • Watched the sunset at Sunset Cliffs
  • Dinner and drinks back at North Park & Pizza

Sunday: Yoga → Coronado → Torrey Pines → La Jolla → Ocean Beach

  • Yoga Sculpt at Yoga Box
  • Walked Pacific Beach and grabbed coffee from The Grounds
  • Explored Coronado – saw the famous hotel, walked the beach
  • Drove to Torrey Pines for a hike with a view
  • Said hi to the seals in La Jolla
  • Checked out Ocean Beach
  • Dinner at OB Noodle House
  • Sunset at OB Dog Beach

Monday: Final Strolls & Slow Moments

  • Walked the PB bay and ocean
  • Back to Lovesong Coffee for one last Bee’s Knees
  • Yoga Sculpt at Hot Box
  • Smoothie from The Mad Beet
  • Beach walk and a slow, sunny pool afternoon

Until Next Time, San Diego

San Diego, you were just what I needed.

From ocean breezes to mountaintop views, early morning coffee runs to golden hour hikes, every step reminded me how healing it is to move, explore, and breathe in something new. I came looking for sunshine and ended up finding a reset—one trail, one neighborhood, one coastline at a time.

There’s something magical about a place that encourages you to walk a little further, linger a little longer, and pay attention to the beauty all around you. I’m heading home with sandy shoes, sun-kissed skin, and a whole new list of favorite places—but more than anything, I’m heading home feeling lighter.

Until next time, San Diego. I’ll be back for more.


Pura Vida: A Journey Through the Chakras in Nosara, Costa Rica

Pura Vida: A Journey Through the Chakras in Nosara, Costa Rica

by Gifted With Grace ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Nosara, was nourishment for my mind, body, heart, and soul. Seven days of sunshine, connection, salt water, laughter, yoga, breathwork, and self-discovery—exactly what I needed.

I had the privilege of attending the Journey Through the Chakras retreat, hosted by Anna from Wild Lights. Going into this experience, I held a few intentions close:

  1. Soak in the sunshine, swim in the ocean, and be outside.
  2. Retreat, relax, reset, reflect, and renew.
  3. Open my chakras and deepen my self-awareness.
  4. Restore my mind, body, heart, and soul.
  5. Disconnect from work and day-to-day responsibilities.
  6. Gain clarity on my next steps in life and career.

I arrived in Costa Rica with an open heart and mind, not fully sure what to expect but excited for the journey ahead. What I found was pure nourishment.

A Week of Ease and Flow

One of the things I appreciated most about this retreat was the absence of decision-making. For an entire week, I didn’t have to plan, coordinate, or worry about logistics. Anna took care of every detail—from airport transportation and accommodations to nourishing meals prepared by Chef Sara and her team. I felt completely supported, which allowed me to fully immerse myself in the experience.

Our home for the week, Tres Hermanas Villa, was a dream. Nestled just minutes from the beach, the villa featured an open-air dining space, a private pool, and an outdoor yoga studio that became our sanctuary. Each room even had an outdoor shower, adding to the magic of it all.

Getting around Nosara was an adventure in itself. Instead of Uber or Lyft, we hopped in Tuk Tuks—small, covered motorcycle taxis that zipped us around town. Every ride felt like a little thrill.

The weather? Absolute perfection. Full sun and 90 degrees every day.

A Typical Day in Nosara

Each morning, we began with a lesson on a specific chakra, followed by yoga. After breakfast, we had free time to explore, relax, or soak in the ocean. Afternoons brought more workshops or quiet moments of reflection. Evenings were filled with nourishing meals, heartfelt conversations, and sometimes, unexpected moments of pure joy—like ecstatic dance night.

Takeaways from the Week

I didn’t leave this retreat as a completely changed person, nor did I have any massive life revelations—but I did leave feeling refreshed, light, and deeply grateful.

What I’m taking with me:

  • Prana is everywhere. Life force energy flows through food, breath, movement, music, and connection.
  • We are our own healers. Understanding the chakras helps us tune into what we need to feel balanced.
  • Relax, trust, and allow yourself to be nourished. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is let go and receive.
  • Pura Vida isn’t just a phrase—it’s a way of being. A reminder to slow down, embrace the present, and soak in the simple joys.

Favorite Moments & Experiences:

  • Walking the beach at sunset on the first night, feeling the ocean breeze and setting the tone for the week.
  • The incredible meals, from fresh ceviche and locally caught fish to the nourishing breakfasts with gluten-free nut and seed sourdough.
  • Exploring Nosara—whether walking through town, sipping smoothies at Nomadic, or grabbing iced coffee at Organico.
  • Silks yoga at Bodhi Tree Yoga with breathtaking views, along with a Tuk Tuk ride through town.
  • The heart chakra ceremony—cacao, hair brushing, eye gazing, and sharing “I love yous” with new friends.
  • The deep breathwork session that created space to release and reset.
  • Laughing, moving, and feeling free during ecstatic dance, ending with a night swim under the stars.
  • Watching the waves, soaking up the sun, and feeling fully present on the beach.
  • The closing ceremony—reflecting on the week, feeling gratitude, and capturing moments with photos on the beach.

Takeaways: Insights from the Week

  • Prana—life force energy is taken in through breath, food, movement, music, connection, and nature.
  • We are our own healers—learning about chakras gave me tools to recognize imbalances and realign my energy.
  • Trust, relax, and receive—sometimes the most healing thing is simply allowing yourself to rest and be nourished.
  • This trip wasn’t life-changing, but it was soul-nourishing—I’m leaving refreshed, rested, and filled with light and love.
  • Nature is medicine—sunshine, salt water, and locally sourced foods are deeply healing.
  • Connection matters—meeting 15 new women from different backgrounds reminded me of the beauty of shared experience.
  • What my soul needed: quiet, sunshine, space to flow, connect, and BE. Pura vida.

Actions to Bring Home:

  1. Embrace the Pura Vida way of living—simple, joyful, present.
  2. Nourish my mind, body, heart, and soul with good food, movement, and rest.
  3. Enjoy sensory experiences—taste, touch, sound, sight, scent.
  4. Continue creating beautiful, intentional experiences in my daily life.
  5. Check in with my chakras and practice energy medicine when needed.
  6. Find ways to bring more sun, sand, and salt water into my life.

Chakra Lessons & Key Takeaways:

Root Chakra (Grounding, Stability, Security)

  • Belonging is medicine—branch out, grow your roots, find connection.
  • Energy medicine: walking barefoot, grounding, releasing control.

Sacral Chakra (Creativity, Pleasure, Flow)

  • To be sacral is to feel deeply—pleasure, emotions, creativity.
  • Medicine: inner child work, sensuality, receiving, movement.

Solar Plexus (Confidence, Strength, Empowerment)

  • Trust your gut—instincts guide the way.
  • Medicine: eating the right foods, nervous system regulation, surrender.

Heart Chakra (Love, Connection, Compassion)

  • Love is about receiving as much as giving.
  • Medicine: alone time, self-love, forgiveness, asking for help.

Throat Chakra (Authenticity, Expression, Communication)

  • Speak your truth—authenticity attracts the right energy.
  • Medicine: sharing ideas, listening, using your voice.

Third Eye Chakra (Intuition, Inner Knowing, Perception)

  • Move through life intuitively guided.
  • Medicine: imagination, creativity, dreams, spiritual awareness.

Crown Chakra (Higher Consciousness, Wisdom, Connection to the Universe)

  • Trust the divine flow of life.
  • Medicine: silence, surrender, moments of transcendence and bliss.

Getting to Nosara

For anyone looking to visit Nosara, here’s what my travel route looked like:

  • Flight: Direct from MSP to LIR (about 5 hours).
  • Airport Transportation: We used Gypsy Transportation for a smooth 2.5-hour ride to Nosara.

Accommodations: Tres Hermanas Villa

We stayed at the stunning Tres Hermanas Villa, which comfortably housed our group of 15. The villa featured:

  • Three bedrooms inside the main house and a separate bunk room.
  • A fully equipped kitchen and open-air dining/lounge area.
  • A private pool and a covered, open-air yoga studio.
  • An additional room outside the main house.
  • Each room had an outdoor shower—pure magic!
  • A 2-3 minute walk to the beach and Destiny Café (a favorite for coffee and smoothies).
  • Easy access to a walking path leading to a shopping area with Organico (great coffee) and an organic market across the street.

Getting Around: Walk or Tuk Tuk

Nosara is an easy town to explore without a rental car.

  • Our villa was in a prime location, allowing us to walk to the beach, food spots, shopping, and a market.
  • Instead of Uber or Lyft, Tuk Tuks are the way to go! These small, covered motorcycle taxis fit about three people and are a fun and affordable way to get around.
  • We took Tuk Tuks to Bodhi Tree Yoga and when heading home from dinner at La Luna.

Helpful Notes for Travelers

  • Airport Transport: Use Gypsy Cab for a smooth ride from Liberia Airport.
  • Yoga: Check out Bodhi Tree Yoga for incredible open-air classes.
  • Transportation: Tuk Tuks are fun, affordable, and the best way to get around town.
  • Food & Drinks:
    • Organico – My go-to for coffee.
    • La Luna – A must-visit for a sunset dinner.
    • Destiny Café – Great for smoothies and quick bites; get the cloud coffee.
  • Currency & Payments: They have a local currency, but I used my card for most purchases.
  • Tipping: Not as common as in the U.S., but I tipped drivers, house staff, and other service providers.

This was exactly what my soul needed—quiet, sunshine, rest, space to flow, connect, and just be.

Costa Rica, I’ll be back. Until then, I’ll be carrying a little piece of pura vida with me wherever I go. 

Tend to Your Own Garden: Why Focusing on Yourself Attracts the Right People, Relationships, and Opportunities

Tend to Your Own Garden: Why Focusing on Yourself Attracts the Right People, Relationships, and Opportunities

by Gifted With Grace ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Imagine your life as a garden. Every action you take, every boundary you set, and every habit you build is like planting seeds and tending to the soil. If you dedicate yourself to nurturing your garden—caring for your personal growth, passions, and well-being—it begins to flourish. What’s fascinating is that when your garden thrives, the right people, opportunities, and experiences are naturally drawn to it.

This isn’t just a nice metaphor; it’s a powerful way to think about how focusing on yourself can transform your life. Let’s dive into why this mindset works and how it can guide you toward the relationships, career paths, and life you truly desire.

1. Authenticity Attracts Connection

When you focus on your own growth and happiness, you align with your most authentic self. This means showing up in the world as you, not as someone trying to meet external expectations or please others. Authenticity is magnetic.

The right people—those who value and align with who you truly are—will gravitate toward you. In contrast, when you’re constantly chasing external validation or trying to be someone you’re not, you risk attracting relationships and opportunities that feel hollow or unfulfilling.

2. The Energy You Put Out Matters

Think of the energy you carry like a light. When you prioritize self-care, joy, and fulfillment, you radiate positivity and confidence. This energy draws in like-minded people and opportunities.

On the flip side, if your energy is rooted in desperation, frustration, or overextension, it can repel what you’re trying so hard to bring into your life. Tending to your garden ensures your energy is aligned with abundance and possibility.

3. Clarity Comes from Within

When you focus on your own garden, you develop clarity about what you truly value and desire. This clarity helps you recognize opportunities that align with your goals and filter out distractions that don’t serve your growth.

For example, instead of saying yes to a job that doesn’t align with your passions, you hold out for a role that matches your values. Or instead of settling for relationships that drain you, you choose connections that nourish and inspire you.

4. The Power of Magnetizing, Not Forcing

One of the most profound lessons of tending to your own garden is learning to let go of the need to force outcomes. When you stop chasing and start focusing inward, you create space for the right people and opportunities to come to you.

This isn’t about passivity; it’s about cultivating patience and trust. You still plant seeds and put in the work, but you understand that what’s meant for you will come when the timing is right.

5. Your Garden Sets the Standard

When your life is rich with joy, self-respect, and purpose, you set a high standard for what you welcome into it. You’re no longer willing to accept less than what aligns with the beauty and harmony you’ve cultivated in your garden.

This standard naturally attracts relationships and opportunities that match your energy, because people and circumstances that don’t align will fall away.

How to Start Tending to Your Garden

If you’re ready to focus on your own growth and create a flourishing life, here are some practical tips:

  • Set Boundaries: Protect your time and energy by saying no to things that don’t align with your values or goals.
  • Invest in Yourself: Take up hobbies, learn new skills, or focus on your physical and mental health.
  • Practice Gratitude: Appreciate the progress you’ve made and the beauty already in your garden.
  • Trust the Process: Let go of the need to control outcomes and trust that your efforts will bear fruit in time.

Reflection Questions

As you work on tending to your own garden, take a moment to reflect:

  • What areas of your life need more care and attention right now?
  • Are you chasing external validation, or are you building a life that feels authentic to you?
  • What boundaries could you set to protect your time and energy?

Focusing on your own garden is not selfish—it’s essential. When you nurture your growth and well-being, you create a thriving, abundant life. And in that abundance, the right people, relationships, and opportunities will naturally find their way to you.

Your garden doesn’t need to be perfect; it just needs to be yours. So, start planting, tending, and trusting. Everything you’re looking for will bloom in its own time.

“Tend to your own garden.

The butterflies will come to you when the flowers are in bloom.” 

– Unknown

20 Things to Avoid at Work to Maintain a Stellar Professional Image

20 Things to Avoid at Work to Maintain a Stellar Professional Image

by Gifted With Grace ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

In the corporate world, maintaining a polished professional image isn’t just about how you dress or speak in meetings. It’s about how you carry yourself day in and day out—in conversations, emails, and even those casual chats at happy hours. To help you shine at work and build a reputation as a trustworthy, collaborative, and competent professional, here’s a list of things to avoid in the workplace and why steering clear of them is key to your success.

1. Complaining Instead of Taking Action

It’s easy to vent about problems, but without offering solutions, it can come across as unproductive. Instead, focus on being solution-oriented. Employers value those who don’t just identify issues but also take steps to address them.

2. Talking Negatively About Colleagues

Workplace gossip or criticism erodes trust and can make you appear unprofessional. Foster collaboration by focusing on the positive qualities of your teammates. If you have constructive feedback, share it respectfully and privately.

3. Not Taking Credit Where Credit Is Deserved

Diminishing your accomplishments or letting others take credit for your work can hurt your career. Advocate for yourself when appropriate by acknowledging your contributions during reviews or team discussions.

4. Sending Sensitive Content Over Chat or Email

Emails and chat messages can be forwarded or misinterpreted. If you wouldn’t be comfortable with your words being shared widely, rethink how you communicate sensitive topics.

5. Making Best Friends with Someone on Your Direct Team

While it’s great to be friendly with colleagues, overly close relationships within your immediate team can lead to perceptions of favoritism or unprofessional behavior. Maintain boundaries to keep work relationships balanced.

6. Gossiping About Office Rumors or Leadership Decisions

Speculating about leadership moves or spreading unverified information can damage trust and morale. Stick to facts and focus on your own responsibilities.

7. Overcommitting to Tasks You Can’t Realistically Complete

It’s tempting to say yes to every request, but overcommitting can lead to burnout and missed deadlines. Be honest about your capacity and prioritize effectively.

8. Interrupting Others in Meetings or Dominating Discussions

Collaboration thrives on mutual respect. Listen actively, give others the floor, and share your thoughts concisely. This fosters a culture of inclusion and respect.

9. Publicly Criticizing Colleagues or Their Work

Feedback is important, but public criticism can embarrass others and create tension. Share constructive feedback privately and tactfully to preserve relationships.

10. Neglecting to Follow Through on Promises or Assignments

Reliability is a cornerstone of professionalism. If you commit to a task, ensure you deliver on time or communicate promptly if issues arise.

11. Engaging in Passive-Aggressive Communication

Snarky comments or indirect complaints undermine your credibility. Be direct and respectful when addressing concerns.

12. Bringing Personal Drama into Professional Spaces

Everyone has challenges, but oversharing personal issues can blur professional boundaries. Seek support from trusted friends or counselors outside of work.

13. Taking Part in Cliques or Exclusive Workplace Groups

Cliques can alienate colleagues and create division. Instead, aim to build inclusive relationships with a wide range of team members.

14. Oversharing Personal Life Details

While some personal anecdotes can foster connection, oversharing can make others uncomfortable. Maintain a balance between professional and personal interactions.

15. Complaining About Leadership Without Constructive Feedback

Criticizing leaders without offering solutions can paint you as negative. If you see opportunities for improvement, share them in a constructive and respectful manner.

16. Blaming Others for Mistakes Instead of Owning Your Part

Accountability earns respect. When mistakes happen, own your role and focus on solutions rather than deflecting blame.

17. Using Company Resources for Personal Gain

From time to equipment, company resources should be used for professional purposes. Misuse can damage your reputation and lead to disciplinary action.

18. Ignoring or Dismissing Feedback

Feedback is a gift, even when it’s hard to hear. Use it as an opportunity to grow and improve, showing that you value your professional development.

19. Engaging in Office Politics to Manipulate Outcomes

Politics can breed distrust and create a toxic environment. Focus on transparency, fairness, and collaboration to build authentic relationships.

20. Sharing Confidential Company Information

Breach of confidentiality not only violates trust but could have legal repercussions. Always handle sensitive information with care and discretion.

Why This Matters

Maintaining a positive professional image isn’t just about protecting your reputation—it’s about creating an environment where everyone feels respected, valued, and motivated to succeed. By avoiding these behaviors, you’ll position yourself as a trusted, collaborative, and effective team player.

Pro Tip: Regularly reflect on your workplace interactions and ask yourself, “Am I contributing to a healthy, productive environment?” This awareness can guide you in consistently showing up as the best version of yourself.

What other workplace behaviors do you avoid? Share your insights in the comments!