She Strengthens

A Year of Growth and Celebration

As we reflect on the past year, it’s clear that our community has grown in ways we never thought possible. We’ve seen milestones reached, boundaries pushed, and voices amplified. It’s been an incredible journey, and we’re honored to have shared it with each of you.

Celebrating Our Contributors

One of the highlights of our year has been the opportunity to work with talented contributors who bring unique perspectives and experiences to the table. From kitchen hacks to poignant essays, our contributors have shown us that personal finance is about more than just numbers – it’s about people.

Standout Articles

We’re proud to highlight some of our favorite pieces from the past year. Meghan Koushik’s list of kitchen essentials for meal prep was a game-changer, while Bree Rody-Mantha’s PSA on consumerism packaged as feminism sparked a much-needed conversation. Savanna Swain-Wilson’s honest look at her life as a substitute teacher was both relatable and eye-opening.

New Voices, Fresh Perspectives

We’ve also had the privilege of publishing articles from first-time contributors, each bringing their own brand of humor, wisdom, and expertise. From budget cooking tips to money-saving vegetarian recipes, these new voices have enriched our community and broadened our horizons.

The Heart of Our Community

At the heart of our community is a commitment to telling stories that matter. Conni Boykins’ powerful essay on the cost of overcoming her eating disorder resonated deeply with many readers, while Sarah Ingraham’s thoughtful piece on the financial and emotional costs of her abortion sparked a vital conversation. Laurie Clark’s personal perspective on the financial and emotional costs of infertility gave us a glimpse into an often-overlooked issue.

Designing Your Life

Lauren’s Design Your Life series has been a beacon of inspiration, showing us that intentional living is within reach. From Ina Garten to Gilmore Girls, these articles have reminded us that it’s the little things that make life worth living.

Growing Up and Learning in Real-Time

As professionals in the digital age, we’re constantly learning and growing in the public eye. Mary’s essay on growing up in front of the comments section was a poignant reminder that we’re all in this together. Chelsea’s candid take on the Whole30 diet and her own eating habits showed us that balance and moderation are key to a happy and healthy life.

The Financial and Emotional Costs of Infertility

One of the most significant joys of our community is the opportunity to explore complex issues from multiple angles. Laurie Clark’s article on the financial and emotional costs of infertility was a powerful reminder that we’re not alone in our struggles.

Shifting Our Mindset

Holly’s article on shifting our focus from bad habits to good ones was a timely reminder that our thoughts shape our reality. By focusing on the positive, we can create a more compassionate and supportive community.

Defining Ourselves by Our Good Habits

When we define ourselves by our good habits, we open ourselves up to a world of possibility. Holly’s article showed us that it’s never too late to make a change and start anew.

Temporary Housing, Permanent Joy

Mary’s article on making temporary housing feel like home was a breath of fresh air. By focusing on the little things, we can turn any space into a haven.

The Myth of Bootstrapping

Kara’s article on the myth of bootstrapping was a much-needed reality check. By acknowledging our privilege and the emotional burdens that come with money, we can create a more equitable society.

The Power of Pie

Holly’s article on the joy of pie-making was a reminder that sometimes, it’s the little things that bring us the most happiness. By embracing our passions and sharing them with others, we can create a more joyful and connected community.

Saving Money, Saving Face

Annie’s article on saving $50,000 by 25 was a testament to the power of determination and hard work. By celebrating each other’s successes, we can create a more supportive and encouraging community.

Confidence Boosters

Annie’s list of 31 free things you can do to boost your confidence was a timely reminder that self-care doesn’t have to break the bank. By focusing on what we can control, we can create a more confident and compassionate community.

Lattes Don’t Make You Poor

This article was a powerful reminder that systemic inequality is a far greater obstacle to financial success than any individual choice. By acknowledging the bigger picture, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable society.

Mental Health and Money

Annie’s article on free tools for managing mental health at home was a vital reminder that our mental and financial well-being are intricately linked. By prioritizing our mental health, we can make better financial decisions and create a more supportive community.

As we look back on the past year, we’re grateful for the opportunity to have shared these stories with you. Here’s to many more years of growth, celebration, and community-building!