Cupcakes with Coffee - Independence

There’s something beautiful about being a woman who stands on her own. Not just in the big “I pay my own bills” kind of way—but in the way she decides to live life by her own design. Whether she’s single, partnered, raising kids, or chasing dreams in the quiet corners of her day, independence isn’t a finish line—it’s a mindset.

It’s saying, I can think for myself.
It’s saying, I don’t need permission.
It’s knowing, I might not have it all figured out—but I’m doing it anyway.

WHAT DO I MEAN WHEN I SAY 'INDEPENDENCE'

Independence doesn’t mean you never need help. It means you choose when and how to ask for it. It means trusting yourself enough to lead your own life—even if it doesn’t look like everyone else’s.

There’s pressure to always look effortless. But real independence? It’s often messy. It's saying yes to the job you’re not quite ready for. It’s booking the solo trip, fixing the thing you thought you couldn't, or starting the blog even if you’re not sure anyone will read it (hello, Cupcakes with Coffee ✨). It’s walking into a room and not shrinking.

Here’s the secret: You don’t have to feel confident to be independent.
You just have to keep showing up for yourself. Even when your voice shakes. Even when you're scared. Especially when you're scared.

Because claiming your independence isn’t a one-time act—it’s a daily decision.
 
WHERE WE'RE HEADED

Do one thing just for you. Not for the kids, your boss, your spouse. Not because they expected it. But because you wanted to. That little choice? That’s power.

You’re already more independent than you give yourself credit for.

And if you’re not sure you’re ready? 

Let’s do it anyway.

Love, Kate

Now, onto cupcakes.

Cupcakes with Coffee Style:

Cupcakes are tiny acts of joy—soft, sweet reminders that life doesn’t have to be big or perfect to be worth celebrating. They’re the reward after a hard day (mid-day, if necessary), the comfort during a messy one, and pure bliss in edible form. Paired with a good cup of coffee, they’re not just dessert—they’re a moment of pause, a little cheer, and sometimes, the reason you keep going.

For this cupcake, I strongly suggest pairing it with a simple (really cold) iced vanilla latte. It is July after all. HOT! This is a great recipe for iced coffee - two ways!

A little tidbit:

The earliest form of iced coffee, known as Mazagran, originated in Algeria around the 1840s. French soldiers, during the Battle of Mazagran, adapted their coffee by mixing coffee syrup with cold water due to the lack of milk and the need for a refreshing drink in the hot climate.

I have a dedicated ice tray to make coffee ice cubes - Game. Changer.

Independence isn’t about having it all figured out—it’s about trusting yourself enough to try. Whether you're starting a new chapter, speaking up, or simply taking care of yourself on your own terms, your freedom is in the daily choices you make. You don’t need permission to take up space, to change course, or to grow. So pour the coffee, grab a cupcake, and remember: even if it’s messy, even if it’s hard—do it anyway. That’s what freedom looks like.