there has always been something incredibly cozy to me about Sweden. I feel blessed to have been integrated with their culture by a woman that I admire more than words, my dear Aunt Anna. Anna hails from Helsingborg, and married my father's brother. family trees aside, I've grown up around her joyful, earth-loving, coffee drinking, effortless essence. she's imbued the Swedish culture in me, and when I need a spark of lifestyle inspiration, I continually return to their ways. I love what they do!

here are some of the best things I've learned . . . 

FAMILY OVER WORK 

. . . but work hard. or, just hard enough, and especially at something you're whole soul is passionate about. in Sweden, it is obscene to work more than 50 hours per week, as ample time with family and out in nature is just as revered as raking it desk side. 

FIKA

typically mid-morning, but really, any time of day will do. Fika is the traditional coffee and a snack break, which is more about socializing / catching up with loved ones than it is about switching off for a break. I can often forget to take just an hour out of my day to meet with family or friends. Fika rocks and I think the whole world should get on board.

LAGOM

this is the concept of "just the right amount" aka moderation aka something I have to actively practice every single day. I have a voracious appetite, for all of life, and can be very indulgent ;-) but less, more often, really is more. 

COUNTRY-SIDE

all the best things in life are enjoyed country-side. even morning coffee is celebrated to be enjoyed in the grass, or somewhere somehow outdoors. the Swede's immerse themselves in nature far more than confine themselves indoors.

MINIMALISM

the simpler, the better. also, color is a really good thing.

(LINGON)BERRIES

sweet, antioxidant rich loveliness with everything. especially the lingonberries, which rock your tastebuds, in any form.

PAPERLESS

all business transactions are moving online at quicker than they are here in America. printed receipts are simply archaic.

FREE FRUIT

grocery stores hand out free fruit for children. enough said.