Author Archives: Olivia

About Olivia

Sophomore

Aviation Maintenance Science

Hometown: Thomasville, Georgia

A Day at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

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Hey y’all!
I recently spent the day at the Jacksonville Zoo, and honestly it was such a fun and refreshing experience. There’s something about being outside, walking around, and seeing animals that instantly puts you in a good mood. It felt like the perfect little escape from everyday routines.


So Much to See
One of my favorite parts of the day was just wandering through all the different areas. Every section had something new, whether it was colorful birds, playful animals, or peaceful scenery. I loved how the paths kept leading to something unexpected. It made the whole visit feel exciting without ever feeling rushed. This is one of the Zoo’s tortoises, and his name is Goober. His name alone is the reason that he is my favorite animal that I saw that day.


The Best Moments
Seeing the animals up close was definitely the highlight. It’s one thing to see pictures online, but it’s completely different when you’re standing there watching them move, interact, and just exist in their space. Those little moments made the day feel extra special.


The Overall Vibe
The whole atmosphere was really cheerful and relaxed. Families were laughing, people were taking photos, and everyone just seemed happy to be there. It’s the kind of place where you can take your time, enjoy the surroundings, and not worry about anything else for a while.


Final Thoughts
Visiting the Jacksonville Zoo ended up being one of those simple days that turns into a really great memory. Between the sunshine, the animals, and the peaceful walking paths, it was such a feel good experience. I’d absolutely go again.
Until next time,
Olivia Strickland ✈️

Navigating a Busy Schedule

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Hey y’all!
Lately my schedule has been packed, and between classes, assignments, and club responsibilities, it feels like there’s always something that needs my attention. Even so, I’ve been learning how to navigate the busy days without feeling completely overwhelmed.


Balancing School and Club Life
Working on club projects has been one of the most rewarding parts of my schedule, but it definitely takes planning. Whether it’s meetings, events, or behind-the-scenes work, fitting everything in means being more intentional with my time and energy.


Staying Organized (Most of the Time)
I’ve learned that staying organized doesn’t mean having everything perfectly planned out—it just means knowing what needs to get done next. Writing things down, setting reminders, and breaking tasks into smaller steps has made busy days feel more manageable.


Finding Small Moments to Recharge
On days when everything feels nonstop, taking short breaks has been key. Even a few minutes to reset, grab coffee, or step outside helps me come back to my work feeling more focused and less stressed.


Final Thoughts
Navigating a busy schedule while staying involved in clubs isn’t always easy, but it’s been worth it. Being busy with things I enjoy makes the long days feel more purposeful, and I’m learning a lot along the way.
Until next time,
Olivia Strickland ✈️

Cold Weather in Daytona Beach

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Hey y’all!
Cold weather in Daytona Beach is always a little surprising. One day it feels like summer, and the next everyone is reaching for hoodies and long pants. While I’m definitely more of a warm weather person, I have to admit that the colder days here have their own kind of charm.


What “Cold” Really Means Here
In Daytona, cold doesn’t usually last long, which honestly makes it more tolerable. Anything under 65 degrees feels like a big deal, but it’s usually gone before you know it. The sun is still out, the sky is still blue, but if you’re anything like me you will still be bundled up. In my opinion anything below 65 degrees calls for thick hoodies and a good pair of comfy sweatpants.

The Fun Side of Cold Days
Even though I prefer the heat, cold days give a good excuse to slow down. Cozy outfits finally make sense, hot coffee feels extra comforting, and evenings are perfect for movie nights or baking something warm. I recently made a batch of strawberry white chocolate cookies, and they were absolutely amazing. I’ll include the recipe at the bottom.


Campus During Cold Weather
Campus feels different when it’s cold. People move a little slower, everything feels a bit more relaxed, and staying awake in class feels a little bit harder. I highly recommend the yellow Red Bull. It is a lifesaver for those early morning classes. If you are not an energy drink person a hot tea or coffee still does the trick!


Making the Most of It
Since cold weather doesn’t stick around long in Daytona, I try to enjoy it while it’s here. It’s a nice break from the usual heat and a reminder to appreciate the little seasonal changes when they happen. Even if I am appreciating it from the comfort of my dorm, it is still nice to pause and think about things. It is just a cozy, and peaceful time of year.


Final Thoughts
Cold weather in Daytona Beach may not be my favorite, but it’s still enjoyable in its own way. Between cozy moments and cooler evenings, it adds a small change of pace before the warmth returns.
Until next time,
Olivia Strickland ✈️

Cookie Recipe:

1 box of strawberry cake mix

2 large eggs

1/3 cup of oil

1 cup of chocolate chips(white or milk chocolate)

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a bowl mix all ingredients except for the chocolate chips together. Once the ingredients are evenly combined fold in the chocolate chips. Scoop two tablespoon balls of dough onto parchment paper and bake for 8-11 minutes depending on how you prefer your cookies. I baked mine for 8 and they came out soft and gooey. Then let cool for a few minutes and enjoy!

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse

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Hey y’all!
This week I took a trip to the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, and it ended up being such a nice change of pace. I love days that get me out of my routine and outside for a bit, and this was the perfect way to do that.


Walking the Grounds
When I arrived, the first thing I noticed was how calm everything felt. The lighthouse itself is beautiful, but the surrounding grounds made the experience even better. Walking around and learning about the history made it feel more intentional instead of just a quick stop for pictures. There’s something really grounding about places with so much history. It made me slow down and actually be present, which isn’t always easy to do.


The Climb Up
Climbing the lighthouse was definitely a workout, but it was so worth it. Step by step, I got more excited to reach the top. By the time I made it up there, I was a little tired but completely distracted by the view.
Seeing the ocean, the inlet, and everything below was honestly incredible. It was one of those views that makes you stop talking and just take it all in.


Why This Trip Meant So Much
What I loved most about this visit was how simple it was. There was no rush, no strict plan, just enjoying the experience as it came. It reminded me that you don’t need a big trip or a packed itinerary to feel refreshed. Sometimes getting out of town for a few hours is enough to reset your mindset.


Final Thoughts
Visiting the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse was such a peaceful break from everyday life. Between the history, the climb, and the view at the top, it’s definitely something I’d recommend if you’re looking for a low stress adventure.


Until next time,
Olivia Strickland ✈️

Pastries and Science Museums

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Hey y’all!
This past weekend I took a little trip to Miami, and it ended up being such a fun change of pace. I love trips that feel productive but still relaxing, and this one was the perfect mix of exploring, learning, and of course, good food.


A Stop at Maman
I started the day at Maman, a French bakery and café that honestly felt like stepping into a Pinterest board. The atmosphere was cozy and calm, which was a nice contrast to the busy city around it. I grabbed a coffee and a pastry and took a moment to slow down and enjoy the morning.
It was the perfect way to start the day. There’s something about sitting with a warm drink and good food that instantly puts you in a better mood. If you’re ever in Miami and want a cute spot to grab breakfast or coffee, this one is definitely worth it.


Exploring the Frost Museum of Science
After breakfast, I headed to the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, and I was honestly impressed by how much there was to see. This isn’t one of those museums you rush through. There are multiple floors with interactive exhibits, an aquarium, and even a planetarium.
I really enjoyed how hands on everything was. I could easily spend hours walking around and still feel like there was more to see. It reminded me why I enjoy museums so much. They make learning fun without it feeling like school.

P.S.: Here is one of the many cat statues they have outside the museum. They were from all over the world, and so fun to look at!


Why I Loved This Trip
What I liked most about this day was how balanced it felt. I wasn’t rushing from place to place, but I also wasn’t just sitting around all day. It was a good reminder that short trips don’t have to be packed to be meaningful.
Getting out of town for even just a day helped me reset and come back feeling refreshed. Sometimes that’s all you need.


Final Thoughts
This Miami trip was such a nice break from routine. Between the cozy bakery stop and spending the afternoon exploring the science museum, it was the perfect mix of relaxing and interesting. If you’re looking for a fun, low stress way to spend a day in Miami, I’d definitely recommend something like this.
Until next time,
Olivia Strickland ✈️

Navigating Emotions in College

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Hey y’all!
College comes with a lot of emotions. Excitement, stress, homesickness, motivation, burnout, happiness, and sometimes all of them in the same day. No one really prepares you for how emotionally overwhelming college can be, especially when you’re learning how to live on your own and manage everything at once.
Some days feel really good, and others feel heavy for no clear reason. I’ve learned that feeling this way doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. It just means you’re human.


Let Yourself Feel It
One of the biggest things I’ve learned is to stop pushing emotions away. When I try to ignore how I’m feeling, it usually just comes back stronger. Letting myself feel whatever I’m feeling, without judgment, has helped me process things faster. It’s okay to have bad days. You don’t need to justify them.


Find Someone to Talk To
You don’t have to go through everything alone. Talking to a friend, roommate, or family member can make a huge difference. Even just saying “I’m not having a great day” out loud helps more than you’d think. If you need more support, campus offers counseling services, and there’s absolutely no shame in using them.


Create Small Comforts
When emotions feel overwhelming, small comforts help ground me. Whether it’s going on a walk, listening to music, journaling, or watching a comfort show, these little moments can help reset your mindset. You don’t need a big solution every time, just something that helps you breathe.


Be Patient With Yourself
College is a big transition, and it’s okay to struggle while adjusting. You’re learning how to balance academics, relationships, responsibilities, life changing events and personal growth all at once. That’s a lot for anyone. Be patient with yourself and remember that progress doesn’t always look perfect.


Final Thoughts
Coping with emotions in college is an ongoing learning process. Some days will be easier than others, and that’s normal. Give yourself space to feel, ask for help when you need it, and remember that you’re doing the best you can.
Until next time,
Olivia Strickland ✈️

Welcome Back

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Hey y’all!
I hope everyone had a relaxing break filled with rest, good food, and time with the people who matter most. As nice as being home is, getting back into the routine of school after a break can be rough. Whether it’s winter break, fall break, or even just a long weekend, the transition back to classes always takes a little adjusting.
After weeks of sleeping in, wearing comfy clothes, and not worrying about deadlines, jumping straight back into syllabi, early mornings, and responsibilities can be overwhelming. I always find myself wishing there was a slow “warm up” period instead of diving head first back into school mode.


Give Yourself Grace
One of the biggest things that helps me is reminding myself that the first week back doesn’t have to be perfect. I try not to expect peak productivity right away. Getting back into the groove takes time, and that’s okay. I focus on small wins like checking my email, reviewing my syllabus, and making a simple to do list. Even little steps make everything feel more manageable.


Reset Your Space
Another thing that helps is resetting my space. Whether it’s my dorm, apartment, or desk, cleaning and reorganizing makes it feel like a fresh start. It helps mentally separate break time from school time. Turning on my favorite show or a playlist, and setting up my planner makes everything feel a little less stressful and a lot more motivating.


Refocus on Your Why
After a break, motivation can be hard to find. When I feel stuck, I take a moment to remind myself why I’m here in the first place. Whether it’s graduating, learning new skills, or working toward future goals, remembering the bigger picture helps me refocus and feel more grounded.


Final Thoughts
Getting back to school after a break isn’t always easy, and that’s completely normal. Give yourself time, take it one day at a time, and don’t be too hard on yourself. The routine will come back before you know it.
Until next time,
Olivia Strickland ✈️

The Joy of Creativity

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Hey y’all!
One of my favorite parts of the holiday season is slowing down and getting creative. Between finals, traveling home, and the general chaos that comes with this time of year, it’s nice to have something simple and hands-on to focus on. For me, that usually means crafts. There’s just something so comforting about sitting down with supplies, Christmas music playing in the background, and creating something just for fun.


Why Crafts Feel Extra Special During the Holidays
During the holidays, crafting feels different. It’s cozy. It’s nostalgic. It reminds me of being younger and doing crafts at the kitchen table while Christmas movies played in the background. Crafting gives my brain a break from screens, deadlines, and overthinking. It’s a way to relax without feeling like I’m doing nothing.


Making Seed Bead Animals
One of my favorite simple crafts is making seed bead animals. If you’ve never made them before, they’re these tiny animals made by weaving small beads together into different shapes. It takes patience and focus, but that’s part of why I love it. You can’t rush it, and you can’t multitask while doing it. You just sit there and work one bead at a time. Plus spending time on Pinterest to find patterns is also relaxing.
There’s something really satisfying about watching something come together from such small pieces. Plus, they’re adorable when they’re finished. I mean look how cute these stingray earrings came out!


Handmade Gifts Mean More
As I’ve gotten more into crafting, I’ve also started appreciating handmade gifts more during the holidays. There’s something really special about giving someone something you made yourself. It feels more personal and thoughtful, and it shows that time and care went into it, not just a quick trip to the store.
Handmade gifts don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Sometimes it’s the small imperfections that make them special. Whether it’s something created late at night with Christmas music playing in the background or a project you spent weeks working on, handmade gifts carry a sense of warmth that store bought gifts just can’t replicate.


Crafting as Self Care
Crafting has become one of my favorite forms of self care. It’s calming, grounding, and lets me be creative without any pressure. There’s no grade, no deadline, and no expectations. Just me, my supplies, and a finished piece at the end.


During a season that can sometimes feel overwhelming, having a creative outlet like this makes a huge difference.


Final Thoughts
The holidays are the perfect time to slow down and create something just because you enjoy it. Whether it’s crafting, baking, or any other creative activity, giving yourself time to make something is such a gift. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to make you happy.
Until next time ✈️
Olivia Strickland

Victorian Christmas

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Hey y’all!
With Christmas right around the corner, I wanted to talk about one of my favorite holiday traditions, Thomasville, Georgia’s Victorian Christmas. If you’ve ever been to Thomasville during the holidays, you know how special it is. And if you haven’t, this is your sign to put it on your Christmas bucket list.


A Little Holiday Magic
Every year during Victorian Christmas, downtown Thomasville completely transforms. The brick streets, historic buildings, and twinkling lights make it feel like you’ve stepped straight into a Hallmark movie. People dress in Victorian-style clothing, carolers sing classic Christmas songs, and the whole town just feels warm and festive.


It’s one of those events that instantly puts you in the Christmas spirit, no matter how busy or stressed you’ve been.


The Atmosphere Makes It
What I love most about Victorian Christmas is the atmosphere. It’s not rushed or overwhelming. People are just walking around, laughing, and enjoying the moment. There’s music playing, lights everywhere you look, and something happening on almost every corner.


It’s the kind of place where you can grab a warm drink, wander through downtown, and forget about everything else for a little while.


Supporting Local Businesses
Another reason this event is so special is how it brings the community together. Local shops stay open late, windows are decorated, and restaurants are packed with people grabbing dinner or dessert. It’s the perfect time to shop local and support small businesses while getting into the holiday spirit.


A Tradition Worth Keeping
Victorian Christmas has always felt like one of those traditions that never gets old. Whether you’ve been going for years or it’s your first time, it still feels magical. It’s cozy, nostalgic, and exactly what the holiday season should feel like.


Final Thoughts
Thomasville’s Victorian Christmas is more than just an event. It’s a reminder to slow down, enjoy the little things, and really take in the season. If you ever get the chance to go, take it. You won’t regret it.
Until next time ✈️
Olivia Strickland

My Winter Self-Care Routine

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Hey y’all!
I hope everyone is doing well and enjoying the start of winter break. For me, this season has always been the perfect time to reset. After finals, late nights, and constant deadlines, my brain just needs a break. So today I thought I’d share my winter self-care routine, and some things I like to do to recharge during the colder months.


Warm Drinks and Slowing Down
There is something so comforting about a warm drink. Whether it’s coffee, hot chocolate, or tea, I always have something warm nearby during the winter. It forces me to slow down and just breathe for a few minutes instead of rushing from task to task. Sometimes I’ll sit by the window and just watch the weather outside. It sounds small but it helps so much.


Winter Walks
I know it sounds silly, but going outside even when it’s cold helps a lot. Just a quick walk around the neighborhood clears my head and helps me reset. Plus winter air just feels different somehow. It’s refreshing in a way that summer air never is. I love putting on my headphones, playing soft music, and pretending I’m in my own little movie scene.


Rebuilding My Sleep Schedule
After finals week… let’s be honest, my sleep schedule basically doesn’t exist. Winter break is the time when I finally get to fix it. I try to go to bed earlier, wake up earlier (kind of), and just feel like a normal human again. Sleep is truly underrated, especially in college. If I can get 8 hours, I feel unstoppable.


Journaling and Reflection
Winter has this calmness that makes it easier to reflect. I like to journal about the semester, what I learned, what I struggled with, and what I’m proud of myself for. Even if things didn’t go perfectly, it’s good to see how far I’ve come. I also like writing a few goals for spring, nothing intense, just simple things I want to focus on.


Cozy Movie Nights
Blankets. Christmas lights. Hot chocolate. Cheesy movies. Friends. That’s literally all I need. Winter is the best excuse to stay inside and relax without feeling guilty. I usually pick one of my favorite childhood Christmas movies and enjoy laughing with my closest friends.


Final Thoughts
Winter break is a chance to breathe. A chance to reset. A chance to be gentle with yourself after an entire semester of pushing nonstop. Whatever your version of self-care is, do it.
Until next time ✈️
Olivia Strickland