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Living a Nordic Life
Welcome to Living A Nordic Life, helping you live a Nordic Life, wherever you are.
From my home in southern Norway I'd love to share my Nordic lifestyle, cooking and surroundings with you, and show you how I have discovered that you don't need to live in Norway to enjoy and embrace a Nordic lifestyle and way of living.
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Nordic Folklore for Each Season, A time for Firelight and Storytelling
Folklore is part of life in the Nordics. Trolls, huldra and other spirits live among us humans and shape the way we see the world. Maybe it's a little bit of fantasy, but it brings magic to each and every day.

Fiona McKinna
Oct 6, 20255 min read


Velkommen oktober, Welcome October!
There’s something quietly magical about October here in the Nordics. The slow and simple change in light, the crispness in the air, the colours of nature moving towards all the autumn hues. As we cross into this deep autumn month, it feels like the earth is breathing out, gathering strength for rest—and inviting us to slow down with it.

Fiona McKinna
Oct 1, 20252 min read


Sauna Season Begins: The Nordic Art of Slowing Down as Cold Returns
Discover how sauna season in Norway marks autumn’s arrival—ritual, warmth, and the art of slowing down as the cold returns.

Fiona McKinna
Sep 28, 20254 min read


Pulla, Finnish Coffee Bread
Pulla or Finnish coffee bread is a daily staple in Finland. These sweet, aromatic and fluffy cardamom buns are easy to make and taste delicious.

Fiona McKinna
Sep 23, 20252 min read


The Gentle Art of Kahvitauko: Why Coffee Breaks Matter in Finland
In Finland Kahvitauko is more than just stopping for a coffee. It's a part of Finnish culture that is an important break in the day and nurtures connection and togetherness.

Fiona McKinna
Sep 15, 20254 min read


Nordic Cleaning Rituals: Embracing Calm Through Tidying
Recently my family and I have had a bit of purge on our clutter. Periodically we look around and decide that there are things that really must go and the last month or so has been like that. it occurred to me that I might not be alone. There is a quiet joy in tidying that goes far beyond spotless kitchen worktops or folded laundry. In the Nordic tradition, cleaning is not simply a task to be checked off—it’s a ritual. A rhythm. A way of creating peace within the home, and b

Fiona McKinna
Sep 14, 20255 min read


Swedish Potatoes in a Dill Sauce (Dillstuvad Potatis)
Delicious dishes don't need to be fancy. This Swedish classic is a simple dish of potatoes and dill and will thestar of any meal.

Fiona McKinna
Sep 9, 20251 min read


Velkommen september, Welcome September!
There is always something about the turn of September that feels both exciting and grounding. After the brightness and ease of summer, the Nordic world shifts its pace. The light softens, the mornings turn cooler, and nature begins her slow transformation into autumn’s rich tapestry. I love this time of year. There’s a sense of balance returning—between time spent outdoors soaking up the last warmth of the sun and time spent indoors, creating a cosy nest for the darker months

Fiona McKinna
Sep 1, 20253 min read


Norwegian Brunost Apple Crumble
An unusual twist on a classic autumn dessert makes it a little more exciting and brings a taste of Norway to the dinner table.

Fiona McKinna
Aug 27, 20252 min read


Autumn Comes Early in Norway
Autumn arrives early in Norway in a gentle and quiet way. It's a chance to make the most of the last of warm weather before the start of winter.

Fiona McKinna
Aug 24, 20253 min read


The Rise of the "Coolcation" in Scandinavia
Coolcations are trending—explore Nordic escapes, crisp air, and serene adventures for a refreshing break from the heat.

Fiona McKinna
Aug 18, 20255 min read


Kanelbullar, Swedish Cinnamon Buns
Fill your kitchen with the warm scent of baking and cinnamon with these Swedish kanelbullar.

Fiona McKinna
Aug 12, 20252 min read


Järvenranta; Finnish Lakeside Living
Discover the magic of järvenranta, the Finnish word for lakeside living. In Finland, with its 180,000 lakes, järvenranta is more than a shoreline—it’s a way of life. Picture cozy lake cabins, traditional Finnish saunas by the water, morning swims under the midnight sun, and peaceful evenings surrounded by pine forests.

Fiona McKinna
Aug 9, 20254 min read


Living With The Light: How The Seasons Shape Nordic Mentality
In the Nordics living with the changing light and seasons is essential for a happy and balanced life. But we don't need to live in the Nordics to embrace a life of balance and acceptance. We can welcome a life grounded in the light and seasons wherever we are.

Fiona McKinna
Aug 4, 20255 min read


Velkommen august! Welcome August!
August to me is a time of long summer holidays with the autumn far off on the horizon, but here in Norway August is the month when schools restarts and the autumn markets begin. The fields begin to turn golden and the leaves are turning from dark green to red and orange.

Fiona McKinna
Aug 1, 20252 min read


Punschrulle, Swedish No-Bake Punsch Rolls
These no bake Swedish punschrulle are a classic that are perfect for fika. Soft choclate and punsch flavoured cake is covered in marzipan and dipped in chocolate.

Fiona McKinna
Jul 29, 20252 min read


Secret Beach Heaven in southern Norway's Vestfold county
Norway's beaches are some of Europe's hidden gems. They are pristine, quiet and beautiful and perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the beach resorts.

Fiona McKinna
Jul 26, 20254 min read


Vispipuuro - Finnish Whipped Dessert. Pink Food!
Vispipuuro is a traditional Finnish dish that is simple and delicious. It's comfort food in bowl for many Finns and uses just a handful of simple ingredients.

Fiona McKinna
Jul 15, 20252 min read


Norway's Must-Try Summer Salads
Summer in the Nordics is all about eating seasonally and making the most of what is at it's best. That means lots of delicious and fresh salads

Fiona McKinna
Jul 12, 20252 min read


Two Duvets: The Scandinavian Sleep Secret
There's a secret to good sleep and it's a Scandinavian thing!! Want to know what it is?

Fiona McKinna
Jul 6, 20254 min read
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