9 Days in Portugal: Everything We Did, Ate, Drank & Loved

October 26, 2026October 26, 2026 by Gifted With Grace ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Porto, Lisbon, Lagos, and a lot of coffee.

There’s something about traveling to another country that makes me question absolutely everything about my normal routine.

Maybe it’s the slower mornings. The ability to spend hours wandering around without a destination. The three coffees a day (although, let’s be real, that’s not entirely different from my normal life). Or the fact that for nine days, I barely knew what day of the week it was.

This October, I spent nine days exploring Portugal with my friend. We started in Porto, made our way to Lisbon, headed south to Lagos, and eventually made our way back to Lisbon before flying home.

The trip consisted of a LOT of walking, coffee shops, really good food, wine, shopping, beautiful sunsets, a spontaneous tattoo, and approximately 47 stops to admire pottery and jewelry.

I kept track of just about everything we did because, well, that’s who I am AND because I know how overwhelming it can be to plan a trip somewhere you’ve never been.

So, whether you’re planning a trip to Portugal or just looking for some travel inspiration, here’s our full itinerary, what I’d recommend, what I’d do differently, and a few things I learned along the way.

Our Portugal Itinerary at a Glance

Days 1–3: Porto, including a day trip to the Douro Valley
Days 4–5: Lisbon
Days 6–7: Lagos and the Algarve coast
Day 8: Lagos to Lisbon
Day 9: Travel home (or so I thought…)

We traveled in October, which meant the weather was generally great for exploring, but it wasn’t exactly peak beach season. Something I’d definitely consider when planning your trip!

Days 1–3: Porto

Hotel: The Social Hub Porto

I’ll just go ahead and say it: Porto was my favorite city of the trip.

Between the colorful buildings, charming streets, river views, markets, and incredible food, there was just something about this city that I loved.

It felt walkable, lively without being overwhelming, and full of little places to stumble upon.

Day 1: Arriving in Porto & Exploring the City

After flying through Amsterdam, I finally landed in Porto!

I took the tram/metro to Trindade and checked into The Social Hub Porto before heading out to explore.

My solo day (until my friend arrived around dinner time):

Brunch at Brunch It (right next to hotel)
Walked and shopped along Rua das Flores
Explored the Urban Market and local shops
Stopped by Time Out Market
Walked along the Douro River
Crossed and admired the Dom Luís I Bridge
Visited São Bento train station to see the famous blue-and-white tiles
Stopped at a chocolate shop
Freshened up at the hotel
Sunset wine at Arco das Verdades
Dinner at The Door

The highlights:

Arco das Verdades was easily one of my favorite discoveries in Porto. Wine, a beautiful view, and a sunset? Say less. If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy a glass of wine overlooking the city, add this one to your list (make a reservation for sunset).

And dinner at The Door was such a good way to start the trip.

We ordered the Scallops al Ajillo and Black Angus Carpaccio, and the scallops were quite literally melt-in-your-mouth good.

Day 2: Gardens, Coffee Shops & More Exploring

One thing about me: I will find a coffee shop in every neighborhood.

And Portugal did not disappoint.

Our day:

Breakfast at Pronto
Walked through Crystal Palace Gardens
Visited Igreja de Santa Clara
Coffee at Bicho Porto
Photo booth at LOT – Labels of Tomorrow
Pastéis de nata at Manteigaria
Shopping at Zara and local boutiques
Another coffee at Combi Coffee
Photo booth at Time Out Market
Cocktails at Pannoplia
Sunset at Dom Luís I Bridge
Dinner at Time Out Market

The highlights:

Bicho was one of my favorite coffee shops of the entire trip. Great coffee, cute atmosphere, and definitely somewhere I’d go back.

We also had to try the famous Portuguese custard tarts, pastéis de nata, from Manteigaria. I’m convinced you can’t visit Portugal without having at least one however I’m not a fan (too sweet) LOL.

Another highlight was Pannoplia, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar with great bartenders and such a fun atmosphere. I’d absolutely recommend it if you love a good cocktail bar.

We ended the day with sunset views from the bridge and grilled cod at Time Out Market.

Day 3: Douro Valley Wine Tour

If you’re visiting Porto, I’d definitely recommend setting aside a day to explore the Douro Valley.

However, I’d do this day a little differently if I were planning the trip again.

We booked a group wine tour through Viator, and while it was nice to get outside the city and experience the region, the tour itself wasn’t my favorite.

Our day:

Full-day Douro Valley wine tour
Stopped in Amarante
Tried vinho verde (green wine) at Adega Kilowatt
Wine and olive oil tasting at D’Origem
Tour with Paulo, the owner
Returned to Porto
Explored Bolhão Market
Shopping at Oysho and Zara
Dinner at Mistu – MUST GO

What I’d recommend instead:

If I were doing it again, I’d look into hiring a private driver for the day and choosing two or three wineries to visit on our own.

That way, you have a little more flexibility to choose places that interest you, enjoy the scenery, and spend more time at the wineries rather than following a predetermined group itinerary.

Private Douro Valley drivers and customizable wine tours are available, although I’d recommend researching options and booking winery tastings ahead of time.

I did enjoy our stop at D’Origem, where Paulo, the owner, gave us a tour, but overall, I think a more personalized experience would’ve been a better fit for us.

Back in Porto, we explored Bolhão Market, which I absolutely loved. If you enjoy markets, food stalls, and browsing local products, don’t skip this.

But the real star of the day?

Dinner at Mistu.

I’m not exaggerating when I say the seared butterfish was one of the top 10 things I’ve eaten in my lifetime.

We also ordered salmon ceviche and steak, and everything was incredible.

If I could recommend only one dinner in Porto, it would be Mistu.

My Porto takeaway: Two full days exploring the city, plus one day in the Douro Valley, felt like the perfect amount of time. I’d also recommend scheduling your wine tour for a Sunday, when more shops and markets may be closed.

Days 4–5: Lisbon

Hotel: My Story Hotel Rossio

Next stop: Lisbon!

We took the train from Porto to Lisbon, which was a pretty easy way to travel between cities.

Lisbon definitely had a different feel from Porto.

It’s bigger, busier, hillier, and a little more chaotic. While there were parts I really enjoyed, Porto was more my speed.

That said, Lisbon had some great restaurants, coffee shops, shopping, and plenty of things to see.

Day 4: Arriving in Lisbon

Our day:

Train from Porto to Lisbon
Dropped our bags at My Story Hotel Rossio
Breakfast/lunch at Augusto
Explored the flea market
Browsed pottery shops and local boutiques
Coffee at Volta
Walked along the waterfront for sunset
Dinner at Skizzo

The highlights:

I loved browsing the pottery and ceramic shops in Lisbon. There were so many great spots to explore! However, if you’re looking for cute jewelry stands and markets, I’d recommend Porto. We found much better jewelry shopping there, and I honestly didn’t come across many jewelry options in Lisbon.

We also stopped at Volta for coffee, which ended up being my favorite coffee shop in Lisbon.

And dinner? Another winner.

Skizzo had excellent vibes and some really good shared plates. We sat at the bar and the bartenders were great too!

We ordered:

Tuna tostada
Scallop vin jaune
Tenderloin
Asian beef tenderloin wonton

If you love ordering a bunch of dishes and sharing everything, this is a great spot.

A tip: If you want to visit Lisbon’s famous flea market, Feira da Ladra, plan around its Tuesday and Saturday schedule.

Day 5: LX Factory, Castle Views & a Spontaneous Tattoo

Our day:

Breakfast and coffee at Heim
Explored LX Factory
- Bookstore and photo booth
- The Feeting Room
- The Therapist
Walked through Pink Street
Coffee at The Folks
Walked up to Castelo de São Jorge
Shopped at one of the largest Zara stores in the world
Spontaneous tattoo with Bonnie at Lacunna Studio
Sunset walk along the waterfront
Dinner at Entropia
Cocktails at Red Frog Speakeasy

The highlights:

LX Factory was a fun stop, especially if you enjoy creative spaces, shops, bookstores, and finding little places to explore.

We also made the walk up toward Castelo de São Jorge. Lisbon’s hills are no joke, but the views make it worth it.

And then there was the tattoo.

Getting a tattoo wasn’t on my Portugal bucket list, but sometimes the best travel memories are the things you didn’t plan.

I ended up booking with Bonnie at Lacunna Studio, and she was AMAZING. Fine-line, dainty tattoos are my style, and I honestly wish I’d gotten more than one.

For dinner, we went to Entropia and ordered broccolini, ricotta dumplings, and steak.

Another excellent dinner.

We ended the night at Red Frog, an award-winning speakeasy (top 50 bar in the world) known for its cocktails. If you’re into unique cocktail bars, I’d recommend making a reservation.

My Lisbon takeaway: I enjoyed Lisbon, but it wasn’t my favorite stop. I would be more intentional about choosing which neighborhood to stay in next time. The city has a lot to offer, but your experience can vary depending on where you’re based.

Days 6–8: Lagos & the Algarve Coast

Hotel: NH Lagos Algarve Resort

After a few days of city exploring, we headed south to Lagos.

The Algarve is known for its dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches, caves, and coastal views.

Unfortunately, October wasn’t quite the beach weather I would’ve hoped for, but it was still beautiful.

If you’re someone who loves walking, coastal scenery, and a slower pace, Lagos is worth considering.

Day 6: Arriving in Lagos & Exploring the Coast

Our day:

Train from Lisbon to Lagos
Brunch and coffee at Alex
Boat tour of the Ponta da Piedade caves
Walked around Old Town Lagos
Coffee at Dot Coffee
Sunset at Sunset Lagos
Dinner at Buteo

The highlights:

We booked our Ponta da Piedade boat tour through Viator, and it was a great way to see the caves and cliffs from the water.

Our guides were great, and I’d recommend doing a boat tour if you’re visiting Lagos.

Another favorite discovery was Dot Coffee. It felt like a lesser-known spot, which I loved, and their tahini latte was so good.

We also watched sunset at Sunset Lagos, which ended up being my favorite sunset spot in the area.

Day 7: Slow Mornings & Coastal Walks

This was one of our slower days, and honestly, I think we needed it.

Our day:

Breakfast and coffee at Black & White
Walked along the coastal boardwalk
Coffee at Coffee & Waves
Relaxed by the pool
Wine at Pearl
Cocktails at Forbidden Door
Dinner at Arabelle

The highlights:

Black & White and Coffee & Waves were both excellent coffee stops. I’m not sure I can choose a favorite, so I’m simply not going to.

Walking along the coast was another highlight. Even without swimming, the views were beautiful.

We also stopped at Pearl for wine. Such a cute spot with great vibes, but make sure you have euros because it was cash-only when we visited.

For dinner, we went to Arabelle, a small, hole-in-the-wall restaurant. We ordered the sea bass, which was the fish of the day, and it was so good. Another cash-only spot, but absolutely worth visiting.

My Lagos takeaway: Lagos was beautiful, but I’d probably spend more time here during warmer months when you can really enjoy the beaches. In October, two days was enough for us to get a taste of the area.

Day 8: Yoga, Coffee & Back to Lisbon

Our final full day started with two of my favorite things: coffee and yoga.

Our day:

Walk the board walk and watch the sunrise
Breakfast and coffee at Black & White (again!)
9:30 AM breathwork and yoga class at Algarve Alchemy
Checked out of NH Lagos Algarve Resort
Coffee at The Studio
Train back to Lisbon
Checked into Moxy Lisbon
Dinner at A Nossa Casa
Greek yogurt nightcap at Myka

The highlights:

The yoga and breathwork class at Algarve Alchemy was one of my favorite experiences in Lagos.

The studio was beautiful, and it was such a nice way to start the day before traveling. Unfortunately, it was their last week of classes before closing, but it reminded me how much I love finding wellness experiences while traveling.

After returning to Lisbon, we had dinner at A Nossa Casa.

We ordered:

Watermelon salad
Scallops
Angus tartare
Beef cheek

Everything was excellent, and it was a great final dinner in Portugal.

We finished the night with Greek yogurt at Myka.

Day 9: The Journey Home (With a Plot Twist)

Ahhh, travel days.

You spend months planning a trip, have the best time, and then the universe decides you need one more adventure.

I arrived at the airport ready to head home, and while I’d heard plenty of horror stories about Lisbon’s airport, getting through security and the various checkpoints wasn’t nearly as bad as I expected.

Just give yourself plenty of time.

Unfortunately, our plane had other plans.

I ended up sitting on the tarmac for approximately three hours due to mechanical issues, which eventually led to flight complications and an unexpected overnight stay in New York.

Not exactly how I planned to end the trip but I suppose that’s part of traveling, too. Sometimes you just have to roll with it (and that’s why you always pack extra undies and lots of high protein snacks).

The Best of Portugal: My Personal Favorites

After nine days, approximately a million steps, and more coffee than I’d like to admit, here are my personal favorites.

Favorite Restaurants

Porto: Mistu

The seared butterfish. That’s it. That’s the recommendation.

Lisbon: Skizzo

Amazing shared plates, great atmosphere, and a meal I’d happily eat again. Entropia and A Nossa Casa are also worth visiting.

Lagos: Arabelle

Small, cozy, and excellent fresh fish. Bring cash!

Favorite Coffee Shops

This category is nearly impossible because I genuinely don’t think we had a bad coffee the entire trip.

And we had a LOT of coffee.

Porto: Bicho Porto

Lisbon: Volta Coffee

Lagos: Black & White, Coffee & Waves, and Dot Coffee

I simply refuse to narrow down Lagos any further.

Favorite Wine & Cocktail Spots

Porto:

Arco das Verdades for wine and sunset views
Pannoplia for cocktails and atmosphere

Lisbon:

Red Frog for a unique cocktail experience

Lagos:

Pearl for the atmosphere and wine

Favorite Shopping

If you enjoy browsing markets, local shops, jewelry, and pottery, Portugal is your place.

Porto was my favorite for markets and jewelry shopping. We found so many cute stands and little shops to explore, and I honestly wish I’d spent more time browsing.

Lisbon was great for pottery and ceramics, along with larger retail stores, especially Zara. I didn’t find nearly as much jewelry there, but there were plenty of beautiful ceramic shops worth exploring.

Sometimes the best shopping finds are the places you stumble upon without even looking for them.

Things I’d Do Differently (And What You Should Know Before Going)

A few things I learned that might make your trip a little easier:

1. Book your dinner reservations ahead of time.

Especially if you’re traveling with a list of restaurants you really want to try. Some of our favorite meals were at smaller restaurants, and I’d recommend planning ahead rather than hoping for a table.

2. Book your train tickets in advance.

We traveled between Porto, Lisbon, and Lagos by train. It’s a great option, but I’d book ahead to make sure you get the departure times you want and you need seat assignments.

3. Use Bolt for getting around.

We found Bolt to be a great alternative to Uber. Otherwise, the trams are pretty easy to use depending on where you’re going!

4. Bring some cash, especially for Lagos.

We were able to use cards for most of the trip, but a few places in Lagos only accepted cash. Don’t assume everywhere will take your card.

5. Plan a more personalized Douro Valley experience.

I’d still recommend visiting the Douro Valley, but instead of booking a standard group wine tour, I’d consider hiring a private driver and arranging tastings at a few wineries of your choice. I’d also plan this for a Sunday, when more shops in Porto may be closed.

6. Be intentional about where you stay in Lisbon.

I liked Porto more than Lisbon, and I think part of that came down to the overall feel of the city. Lisbon is larger and more spread out, so research neighborhoods before booking.

7. Bring a washcloth.

Such a random little travel tip, but no hotel provided one.

8. Don’t overpack your itinerary.

I say this as someone who loves an itinerary.

Some of our favorite moments were the random coffee stops, little shops, spontaneous decisions, and walks without a specific destination.

Leave some room for those.

9. Ask people for recommendations.

Seriously. If you don’t know where to go, ask someone.

Locals, bartenders, coffee shop employees, hotel staff. You never know what little gem someone might recommend.

10. Consider the season when planning Lagos.

The Algarve is beautiful year-round, but if you’re hoping to spend your days swimming and lounging on the beach, I’d consider visiting during warmer months.

Would I Change Our Itinerary?

A little!

Porto was my favorite, and I think three days, including a Douro Valley day trip, was perfect.

I’d probably shorten our time in Lisbon and potentially Lagos if traveling in October again.

And if I had a few extra days? I’d love to hop over to Spain.

One of my favorite things about traveling in Europe is how easy it can be to experience multiple places in one trip.

One thing I didn’t expect?

Witnessing protests right outside our hotels in both Porto and Lisbon. It was an interesting reminder that while we’re visiting these places on vacation, they’re home to people with their own lives, challenges, and things they’re fighting for. There’s so much more to experiencing another country than just the tourist attractions.

A Few Things Portugal Reminded Me

One thing that stood out to me was how present people seemed to be. Fewer kids glued to iPads (I didn’t see one single iPad kid…). Cafes that discouraged laptops. Tables full of people actually talking to one another.

As someone who spends a lot of time working on a screen, it was refreshing.

It also made me realize how accustomed I’ve become to filling every minute of my day. Work, workouts, plans, responsibilities… there’s always something.

Then I go on vacation and suddenly have absolutely no idea what day it is. Nor do I care.

I’m just enjoying my coffee, exploring somewhere new, having long dinners, and watching sunsets without worrying about what’s next.

We need more days where we’re so lost in the moment that we forget what day it is (and not just on vacation).

This trip also reminded me that things don’t always go according to plan, and sometimes that’s a good thing. My original travel plans changed pretty last minute, but the trip ended up being exactly what I needed. A little reminder that sometimes the unexpected version turns out even better.

Until the Next Adventure

Leaving a trip is always bittersweet. You spend months anticipating it, and then suddenly you’re packing your bags to go home.

I’m never quite the same after traveling, especially internationally. There’s something about disconnecting from your routines, immersing yourself in another culture, and experiencing a different way of life that puts things into perspective.

Coming home is always a mix of excitement to see the people I love and the reality of returning to everyday responsibilities.

But maybe that’s the point. To bring a little piece of that slower, more present version of ourselves home. To remember that we don’t have to be in another country to enjoy the life happening right in front of us.

Andd while I could say I don’t know where the next adventure will take me… JK, my next trip is already booked. HAHA.

Because if there’s one thing I know about myself, it’s that I’ll probably always have another trip on the calendar.

Until next time, Portugal. Obrigado. ♡

8 Days in Maine: Our Coastal Maine Road Trip Itinerary + Everything I’d Recommend

September 9, 2026September 9, 2026 by Gifted With Grace ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

For the third year in a row, my mom and I packed our bags for our annual trip after our summer birthdays, just the two of us.

It’s become one of my favorite little traditions. A trip after our birthdays, a new place to explore, and a week together away from normal life.

This year: Maine.

And apparently Maine wanted to start us off on a high note because we got a surprise first-class upgrade on our flight there. Not a bad way to begin eight days of vacation.

From there came eight days, four hotels, approximately one million coastal views, more coffee shops than I could count, plenty of lobster, lots of walking and hiking, and one very full camera roll.

We flew into Portland, rented a car, and made our way up the coast, stopping in Portland, Freeport, Wiscasset, Rockland, Camden, Rockport, Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park, and Kennebunkport along the way.

And while I’m usually someone who loves having an itinerary, this trip reminded me that some of the best parts of traveling happen somewhere between the plans: pulling over because a view looks pretty, wandering into a shop you didn’t know existed, changing clothes in the car because there’s no point driving back to the hotel, or deciding you liked a restaurant enough to eat there two nights in a row.

If Maine is on your list, here’s our full eight-day coastal road trip itinerary, plus the places I’d absolutely recommend.

Day 1: Portland

After our very nice surprise first-class flight, we landed in Portland, picked up our rental car, and officially started our Maine adventure.

We dropped our bags at the Canopy by Hilton Portland Waterfront and immediately went looking for coffee and breakfast.

Our first stop was Salt Yard, where I had coffee and a yogurt/chia seed bowl. We spent the rest of the morning doing one of my favorite things in a new city: walking with no huge agenda. We wandered along the waterfront, popped in and out of shops, and got our first look at Portland.

After checking into the Canopy, we headed upstairs for drinks at Luna Rooftop Bar, which has beautiful views over the city and waterfront.

For dinner, we went to Via Vecchia and sat at the bar. Our bartender was great, and I’d absolutely recommend sitting there if you can. The burrata was amazing, and we ordered pasta for dinner. Full disclosure: I almost never eat pasta, so I’m probably not qualified to rank Portland pasta, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Naturally, we followed dinner with gelato from Gelato Fiasco.

The gelato officially sent me over the edge after a full day of eating, so we ended the night with another walk around Portland. Balance!

Day 1 favorites: Salt Yard, walking the Old Port and waterfront, Luna Rooftop, Via Vecchia, Gelato Fiasco.

Day 2: Portland → Freeport → Wiscasset → Rockland

We started the morning with another chia seed bowl and coffee at the Canopy before checking out and officially beginning the road trip portion of our trip.

First stop: Freeport.

Obviously, we had to visit the L.L.Bean Flagship Store. I love a Boat and Tote and have given personalized ones as gifts to approximately everyone in my life, so seeing the flagship store felt necessary.

From there, we went to Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park for a walk and a little time in nature. One thing I loved about this trip was how easily we could alternate between wandering around little coastal towns and being completely surrounded by trees, water, and trails.

Then we continued north on Route 1 toward Wiscasset in search of a lobster roll.

Red’s Eats is the famous stop and supposedly has one of the best lobster rolls in Maine, but the line was LONG. We weren’t committed enough to the cause to wait, so we walked across the street to Sprague’s Lobster instead (bring cash for these places).

Lobster roll acquired. Mission accomplished.

We continued north to Rockland and checked into 250 Main Hotel, which became our home base for the next couple of days. Another perk: complimentary wine in the hotel from 4–6 p.m. We obviously appreciated that.

That evening, we walked out to the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse. Fair warning: the walk along the breakwater is longer than it looks from shore, but getting all the way out to the lighthouse was worth it.

We finished the day with dinner at In Good Company, which we loved enough that this will not be its only appearance in this itinerary (the menu is updated daily).

Day 2 favorites: L.L.Bean, Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, driving Route 1, Sprague’s lobster roll, Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, In Good Company.

Day 3: Camden + Rockport

Day three was one of those vacation days where we somehow fit approximately three days into one.

We started with a smoothie from Earth Flow + Fire and coffee from Zoot Coffee, then spent some time walking around downtown Camden.

Camden is exactly what I pictured when I thought about a coastal Maine town: cute shops, boats in the harbor, mountains in the background, and approximately 500 places that make you want to stop and take a picture.

Then it was time to hike.

We did the Maiden Cliff Trail, which gives you gorgeous views over Megunticook Lake without being too strenuous of a hike. We also made our way up Mount Battie for another perspective over Camden and Penobscot Bay (however we couldn’t see anything with the rain).

After hiking, we headed back into Camden for lunch at Mixed Greens.

We also made our way over to Rockport, walked around the harbor, grabbed coffee at Seafolk Coffee, and took in the views near Curtis Island Lighthouse.

Somewhere in the middle of all of this came a classic road trip moment: changing in the car so we could go directly from hiking and exploring into our evening plans instead of wasting time driving back to the hotel.

And then… we went back to In Good Company for dinner.

Yes, again.

There were plenty of other restaurants we could have tried. We simply did not care. It was that good.

Day 3 favorites: Camden, Maiden Cliff, Mount Battie, Mixed Greens, Rockport, Seafolk Coffee, In Good Company round two.

Day 4: Rockland → Acadia National Park → Bar Harbor

Next stop: Bar Harbor.

We grabbed coffee from Kirí Coffee and brunch at Spring Street Eatery before making the drive north toward Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park.

Instead of waiting until the next morning to start exploring Acadia, we went straight into the park.

Our first stretch was one of my favorites of the entire trip:

Sand Beach → Ocean Path → Thunder Hole → Otter Cliff

This was such a good introduction to Acadia because you get a little bit of everything: beach, rocky coastline, ocean views, trails, and some of the park’s most recognizable stops.

Eventually, we made our way into Bar Harbor and checked into the West Street Hotel, which was our home for the next few nights. We liked being downtown to be able to walk everywhere but next time we’d stay in a cottage outside of the city.

We spent the evening walking and shopping around downtown Bar Harbor before heading to Project Social Kitchen & Bar for drinks and dinner.

At this point, I was already starting to understand why people love Maine so much.

Day 4 favorites: Sand Beach, Ocean Path, Otter Cliff, West Street Hotel, walking around Bar Harbor, Project Social.

Day 5: Jordan Pond + Southwest Harbor

We started day five with breakfast at Two Cats and coffee from Mount Dessert Bakery before heading back into Acadia.

The main event of the morning was Jordan Pond.

We walked the roughly four-mile loop around the pond, which might have been one of my favorite hikes/walks of the trip. The water, mountains, trees, and changing views around the trail made it one of those places where you keep stopping even though you already have 47 versions of essentially the same photo.

And you can’t go to Jordan Pond without stopping at Jordan Pond House for its famous popovers, which tasted even better after the four-mile hike.

Afterward, we drove toward Southwest Harbor and explored a quieter side of Mount Desert Island before heading to Bass Harbor Head Light Station.

Then came one of our favorite discoveries of the trip: Table Salt in Bar Harbor.

The seasonal squash and halibut were two of our favorites, and dinner was good enough that we pretty much immediately decided we’d be coming back.

We grabbed ice cream from Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium afterward and finished the night walking along the waterfront around sunset.

A very Maine day.

Day 5 favorites: Jordan Pond, the popovers at Jordan Pond House, Southwest Harbor, Bass Harbor Head Light, Table Salt, sunset along the Bar Harbor waterfront.

Day 6: Schoodic Peninsula

For our final full day in the Bar Harbor area, we ventured somewhere that I think deserves to be on more Acadia itineraries: the Schoodic Peninsula.

We started with breakfast at The Early Bite, then drove out toward this quieter section of Acadia National Park.

We followed Schoodic Loop Road, stopping along the way to hike, walk out on the rocks, and take in the coastal views.

Compared with some of Acadia’s busier areas, Schoodic felt quieter and a little more untouched. If you have enough time in the area, I definitely think it’s worth the extra drive.

Afterward, we returned to Bar Harbor for one more afternoon of walking around town.

And for our final dinner?

Table Salt. Again.

No regrets.

Day 6 favorites: Schoodic Loop Road, Schoodic Point, exploring the quieter side of Acadia, Table Salt round two.

Day 7: Bar Harbor → Kennebunkport → Portland

Sadly, it was time to leave Bar Harbor and begin making our way back down the coast.

But we weren’t done exploring yet.

We drove south to Kennebunkport, grabbed coffee and a smoothie from Fiafia, and spent some time walking and shopping around downtown.

I loved the shops here, especially Benoit’s and SeaCraft.

After exploring downtown, we drove Ocean Avenue, which is absolutely worth doing for the coastal views, beautiful homes, and St. Ann’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church.

We also made time for the beach, with Gooch’s Beach and Goose Rocks Beach both on our list.

Then we continued back to Portland for one final night and checked into The Press Hotel.

We had drinks at Blyth & Burrows (amazing, must go) before realizing that maybe we should have planned ahead and made Portland dinner reservations for Labor Day.

We ended up having dinner at UNION in the hotel, which turned out to be a great final dinner anyway.

Day 7 favorites: Kennebunkport, Fiafia, Benoit’s, SeaCraft, Ocean Avenue, The Press Hotel, Blyth & Burrows.

Day 8: Portland + Home

For our final morning, there was really only one appropriate choice.

We walked back to Salt Yard for another chia seed bowl.

Full circle.

Then we squeezed in one last walk around downtown Portland before heading to the airport and flying home.

Eight days later, I somehow left Maine feeling like we had seen so much and still barely scratched the surface.

If I Planned This Maine Road Trip Again…

I actually loved the way we structured this trip.

Starting and ending in Portland made flying and renting a car easy, while spending multiple nights in Rockland and Bar Harbor gave us home bases instead of packing up every single morning.

Our route essentially looked like:

Portland → Freeport → Wiscasset → Rockland/Camden → Bar Harbor + Acadia → Kennebunkport → Portland

If I did it again, I’d love to come back a little earlier in the summer for warmer weather and spend more time exploring the coast south of Kennebunkport.

My biggest recommendations? Pack warmer clothes than you think you’ll need if you’re visiting in September, and leave some room in your itinerary.

Have the restaurants saved. Know which hikes you want to do. Make reservations for anything you really don’t want to miss. But don’t plan every hour.

Drive Route 1. Stop when something looks interesting. Walk through the little towns. Take the scenic road. Go back to the restaurant you loved instead of trying somewhere new just because you think you’re supposed to.

Some of my favorite moments from Maine weren’t really destinations at all. They were the stretches in between.

Three years into our little mother-daughter birthday trip tradition, I think that might be part of why I love these trips so much. We pick somewhere we’ve never been, make a plan, and then see where the week takes us.

And Maine gave us a pretty good week.

Maine: the way life should be.

Corsa, Unit 501

July 31, 2026July 31, 2026 by Gifted With Grace ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

My Starting Over Place

In September 2024, at 25 years old, I moved into my first apartment that was completely my own.

One that I chose.

One that I wanted.

One that no one else had a say in.

Before Corsa, I lived across the street with someone I thought I would build a future with. Every time I drove by while this building was under construction, I’d tell myself, “One day I’m going to live there.”

I never imagined the circumstances that would bring me there.

After my relationship ended and our lease was coming to an end, I toured apartment after apartment, wondering if I should just move back home and save money. Corsa wasn’t even supposed to be on my list. The rent felt like a stretch, and I convinced myself it probably wasn’t practical.

But I toured it anyway.

The moment I walked in, it felt like home.

Sometimes you can’t explain why a place feels right. You just know.

I landed in Unit 501.

A fifth-floor corner apartment with an alcove, a balcony, sunsets pouring through the windows every evening, and stairs conveniently right outside my door.

Brand new. Ready for a fresh start.

At first, I called it my starting over place. Eventually, it became my little shoebox.

It wasn’t big, but it became everything I needed.

For the first time, I decorated entirely for myself. Every piece of furniture, every blanket, every candle, every little corner reflected who I was becoming.

It became my landing place.

The place where I learned that living alone wasn’t the same as being lonely.

It became the backdrop for hundreds of ordinary moments that somehow became unforgettable.

Morning coffee on the couch.

Sunsets that never got old.

Working from my kitchen island.

Late nights editing content.

Packing for weekend adventures and trips.

Slow Sundays.

Busy Mondays.

The quiet evenings where I learned to enjoy my own company.

And then there were the moments that still make me laugh…

Hosting nearly 20 people in my tiny apartment for a holiday party.

Flower bouquet party in the community room.

Girls’ nights and slumber parties in my comfy bed.

Working from the pool on summer afternoons.

Late nights somehow ending exactly where they were supposed to… back in my own bed.

Countless workouts in what might genuinely be the best apartment gym I’ve ever used.

Baking sourdough and air frying the shit out of everything.

Finally buying a TV after convincing myself I didn’t need one.

My kitchen island slowly falling apart and everyone laughing when they’d sit on the loose stools.

My bed breaking more times than I care to admit.

Comparing my insane electric bill with my neighbors.

Hot tub nights that always lasted longer than we planned.

Fire alarms in the middle of the night.

Getting locked on my own balcony and having to be rescued by the police.

Meeting neighbors who became good friends.

Opening my door to people who made that apartment feel even more like home.

Looking back, none of those moments seem particularly extraordinary on their own.

Random parties with the original neighbor crew.

A quick mirror selfie while running out the door (probably late, as usual).

Hosting pregames with espresso martinis and making candy for our raves.

But together, these things became a life. My life.

A life that looked different from the one I thought I’d have, but one I’m incredibly grateful for.

A life that taught me I could start over.

When I moved into Corsa, I thought I was just renting an apartment. I didn’t realize I was rebuilding my life.

This little apartment held so much more than furniture.

It held uncertainty.

New beginnings.

Friendships.

Growth.

Confidence.

Freedom.

Healing.

Joy.

It witnessed versions of me that were still figuring things out, and somehow, by the time I packed everything into boxes again, I realized I wasn’t the same person who had first carried them inside.

Leaving Unit 501 is bittersweet because it gave me exactly what I needed when I needed it most.

A place to land.

A place to become myself again.

Thank you, Corsa.

Thank you for being my starting over place.

I’ll always be grateful for the little shoebox on the fifth floor that quietly became home.

Funny how a place can stay exactly the same, while the person living inside it changes completely.

A Quick Weekend in Denver

July 5, 2026July 5, 2026 by Gifted With Grace ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Denver Trip Recap | July 3–5

It all started with, “Hey, I have a crazy question and idea…”

The trip that actually made it out of the group chat.

A quick weekend in Denver to see Zeds Dead at Red Rocks ( aka Deadrocks).

We flew in Thursday night, landed in Denver, Ubered about 30 minutes to our hotel (after finally figuring out how to get out of the airport), and checked into the Magnolia Hotel in downtown Denver.

Day One

Quick hotel workout
Walked and explored 16th Street
- Free bus rides up and down the street
- Just a few blocks from our hotel
Breakfast at The Delectable Egg
High Times visit (iykyk)
Coffee at Little Owl Coffee
Walked to Union Station and explored
Wandered through LoDo
- Strolled through Dairy Block
- Smoothie stop at The Bar at Blue Ruby
Walked through Larimer Square
- Don’t miss the photo booth inside Garage Sale Vintage
Met up at Thirsty Lion for the Red Rocks shuttle (we opted for coffee at Union Station instead of drinks beforehand)
Shuttle to Red Rocks!
- Arrived a little after 5 p.m.
- Waited in line for about an hour before getting inside
- Grabbed dinner
- Found our seats around 7 p.m. for the 10 p.m. headliner. Even then, it was already filling up, so we ended up near the top.
Dead Rocks
- Watched the openers… Lumberjvck, Hydraulix, Axel Boy, Bauer b2b Holly, and Sippy
- Zeds Dead (an incredible two-hour set, mix of oldies, newbies, and remixes)
Shuttle back to downtown and finally made it to bed around 1 a.m.

Day Two

It was the Fourth of July, so a few places were closed.

Quick hotel workout
Coffee #1 from Fluid Coffee (inside our hotel)
Brunch at Sam’s No. 3 (a Denver classic)
Explored the RiNo Art District
Coffee #2 at Metropolis Coffee
Wandered through Denver Central Market
Drinks at Odell Brewing
Dinner at El Five
- Tapas, wine, and one of our favorite views of the Denver skyline
Walked back toward Union Station and caught the free bus along 16th Street back to the hotel

The next morning, we were up very early for our 6 a.m. flight back to Minnesota so we could squeeze in the rest of the Fourth of July weekend.

Short trip. Great city. Incredible venue. 10/10 would do it again but with more time to hike and check out surrounding cities!

Houston, we have a problem!

May 4, 2026 by Gifted With Grace ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Houston, we have a problem… the girls are in town!

This was one of those trips where the itinerary existed (because we were traveling with seven project managers)… but also didn’t. A little rain delay, a little go-with-the-flow, and very much let’s see where the Texas wind takes us.

Here’s how it all played out:

Day 1:

Arrive
Rental car secured (essential here)
Check in to our Airbnb
Family-style dinner at Soju + Haraoke

First night energy was high, even after the airport not having a gate for us and waiting forever for the rental car shuttle. We made it, we were together, and that’s really all that mattered.

Day 2:

Coffee at La La Land (I’m obsessed)
Grocery + liquor store run
Workout at the house
Ironworks for little shops + drinks
Emergency Walmart run for warmer clothes (Texas???)
Dinner at Johnny Rita’s

This day was on and off rain and flooding all day which killed our vibes a little. Also… no one talks about how unpredictable Texas weather can be??

Day 3:

Morning walk turned run (slightly sketchy area)
Post Market (food hall and sky deck)
Drinks + music at Truck Yard (fav patio, live music, huge drinks)
Dinner at Blood Bros BBQ

Sunshine was back baby! After an interesting morning walk turned run and bad coffee shop experience, we got to hang out and yap around the hot tub in the sunshine. The second half of the day was pure vibes once we finally found a fun patio bar and we enjoyed ourselves over a BBQ dinner.

Day 4:

Coffee at La La Land (again, obviously)
Lunch at Cava
Walk + shops around The Heights (definitely the best area and we wished we had more time here)

The Heights was easily my favorite area. Walkable, cute shops, just a completely different feel from the rest of what we experienced.

Airbnb thoughts:

The house itself was great and fit six of us comfortably. But the neighborhood… a little questionable. One of those gentrified places where you stick out.

Weather:

Day one was rain, flooding, and a slight hit to vibes. The next two days brought sunshine, which completely shifted the energy.

Overall thoughts:

Houston was fun for the girls trip… but I don’t know if it’s a place I feel pulled to go back to. It might’ve been where we stayed, but it’s very spread out and you’re driving everywhere (like 20–40 minutes minimum no matter what).

That said I loved The Heights, Truck Yard, and La La Land.

And more than anything, I loved the reminder that the place matters less than the people you’re with.

This was actually my first trip with these girls. I had only known them through work and happy hours before, and you never really know how that’s going to translate outside of it.

But truly… some of the most genuine, kind, and caring girls. Just easy to be around, looking out for each other, making sure everyone’s good.

The kind of energy you don’t take for granted.

Give me a random city, a slightly questionable location, unpredictable weather, and the right group of girls… and somehow it still turns into a weekend you’ll talk about for a while.

Thanks for the random memories, laughs, and endless inside jokes Houston!

48 Hours in Vegas: An Insane Side Quest

March 11, 2026March 12, 2026 by Gifted With Grace ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

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

February 21, 2026 by Gifted With Grace ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

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

December 29, 2025December 29, 2025 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:

Girls nights are medicine.
Never underestimate the healing power of laughter and connection with the girls.
Tend to your own garden.
Everyone is in a different season of life. Don’t let comparison distract you from your growth.
Let them. Let me.
Release what you can’t control and refocus on your own happiness.
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.
Your emotions are information.
When you slow down and listen, your body will tell you when something is off or deeply right.
Love isn’t only romantic.
It’s friendship, self-trust, community, kindness, and the small moments that make life feel full.
Stay open, you never know who you’ll meet.
Some of the most meaningful connections arrive unexpectedly.
Rest is necessary.
Slowing down is essential for clarity, regulation, and longevity. Rest before the burnout, not after.
New experiences create new perspectives.
Say yes to new places, new things, and spontaneous adventures.
Choose experiences over things.
Music, travel, and shared moments outlast anything you can buy.
Who you surround yourself with matters.
Spend time with expanders, supporters, and people who believe in your growth.
It’s never too late to pivot.
You can change careers, dreams, paths, or versions of yourself at any time.
At the end of the day, you always have yourself.
Everything else is secondary to your relationship with you. Show up for yourself.
You are not responsible for others’ happiness.
You don’t have to fix, carry, or absorb what isn’t yours. Boundaries matter.
Someone is always watching.
Keep showing up and staying real, it matters more than you know.
Balance is something you create, not something you find.
It takes intention, boundaries, and regular recalibration.
Slow down before life forces you to.
Notice the signs early and listen before you’re forced to pause.
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.
Sometimes all you need is a hug.
Not advice. Not fixing. Just presence and being held as you are.
Work friends matter.
They make the everyday lighter, more human, and more fun.
Give yourself grace when starting something new.
Progress may feel slow, but growth is happening beneath the surface.
Quality over quantity, always.
This applies to friendships, food, clothes, workouts, experiences, and commitments.
Lead with grace.
Be the bigger person, leave people better than you found them, and remember you never know what someone is carrying.
You can reinvent yourself as often as you need.
You’re not stuck. Try, evolve, release, repeat.
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:

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

Top 10 Moments That Changed Me:

Two Friends Concert – what unexpectedly sparked my love for raves, joy, music, movement, and being fully in the moment.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Solo Concert – Learning I can do things alone and still have an amazing time. Quietly empowering and confidence-building.
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.
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:

September 29, 2025September 29, 2025 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

August 3, 2025 by Gifted With Grace ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

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