Has anyone ever said to you in a not-so well-meaning tone, "You've changed!" If so, I hope you took that as a HUGE compliment, because that is exactly what you want to be doing in life, girlfriend (or guy-friend).

Do you agree that there's nothing more annoying than people who sit back expecting everyone to stay the same exact person (like them). Well, duh, of course I changed. I'm not a rock. Wait a minute, even rocks change! Ha!

Sometimes with the pressure to conform to this idea that people have of us, we get caught up in trying to soften ourselves to appeal to those who "know" us.

Oh no ... we don't want to offend anyone by changing. But really, by doing so, we aren't being true to who we are, even when who we are has evolved into someone different - someone better.

What I've learned in my 31 (still newbie) years of life is that I must constantly evolve in order to become the best version of myself.

If I fail to evolve, I fail to grow, and that my friend would mean that I'm just living to die.

Extreme, yes (I can be), but it's so true. I know I don't have all of the answers, but I do know this much is true.

Along the way, you'll discover that by evolving, you will not only develop different needs in life, but you will shed old ones as well. You may outgrow the people that you once surrounded yourself with. Certain environments may not appeal to you anymore. It will trickle down to every area of your life. In some ways, it will take some getting used to, and you'll have to discover yourself again.

I've gone through this process many times and found that it was always a natural progression, never forced. Although it was sometimes uncomfortable, I always moved forward and found it to be an important process in where I am today and in getting me to a more fulfilling place.

On the topic of change, I always like to refer back to one of my favorite scriptures - Ecclesiastes 3: 

"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens ... "

When you understand this, change will never phase you because you'll know that there is a season for everything and that life is all about change.

Take any successful or accomplished person - who they are now is not the same person as who they were when they first started their journey. They were like any average person trying to navigate life and figure things out. 

Naturally, in order to meet the expectations of each new level of success, more was required of them, which they had to develop within themselves.

It took discipline. It took change.

There's no such thing as a successful person who never grew or never changed, and I'm pretty sure that if they stomped their feet and refused to change, they wouldn't be where they are today.

If you're feeling pulled in different directions and battling with the idea that maybe people won't like certain decisions you'll make out of fear that they will question your authenticity, have no fear.

You don't need anyone's approval.

The very journey you're on is yours and yours alone. You're on the right track when you're always pursuing the best version of yourself even if that means confusing a few people along the way. 

Recall all of those stories where someone does a complete 360 and turns their life around, then lives to tell the world their amazing story of how they overcame the odds and - you guessed it - changed. It takes a strong-willed person to change and not settle. 

There is absolutely no resistance for the person who refuses to ever change, but for the person who proactively decides to constantly change and grow - it takes strength, endurance, and resilience.

Every single day, by developing yourself and demanding more of yourself, you are flexing a different type of muscle and becoming stronger - able to reach new levels and opportunities in life.

The more you grow, the more you succeed.

Reaching new heights in life will be determined by your willingness to grow, so pursue those opportunities that will stretch you.

get this free wallpaper

Pursue what scares you, head-on.

Another thing is that growth hurts. People think, oh, that person changed. I don't like them anymore. They're a fraud. Um, why? Do they even know how many different experiences it took for that person to get to where they are today? 

It's so easy for people to judge what they see instead of empathizing with what a person went through to get to their current position. We usually see the end result of their growth, not the in-between, so it's easy to ignore that where a person is today is a result of something deeper and more difficult than what we are aware of. 

It's never too late to become the person you've always wanted to be, and it's certainly never too late to invent a new, better, and upgraded version of yourself, either.  

Who cares if people "accept" you, and for the record, you don't want those people in your life anyway. You want to be surrounded by people who support your growth and love you for whatever that may bring.

Some people may not understand you, and that's perfectly okay.

Do you know why? Because people that do understand you will come out of the woodwork, and those are the kind of people you want in your life. 

So, where do you stand? Have you changed? Do you want to change?

The best thing about life is new beginnings. Every. Single. Day.

That's actually what makes life so amazing. You can change your mind. Oh yes, and I love to do that. Very very often. 

What I'm trying to get at is that you should never feel scared to try something new, be someone new, and explore a different version of yourself. As long as you are being authentically you, that is all that matters at the end of the day. If you're moving in a positive direction, nothing can stop you. 

When you pursue new levels in life, it'll call for new versions of yourself - ones that you didn't even know you were capable of.

The only way to really know what you are capable of doing is to step out. And the prerequisite - there is none. 

I have learned that even when I didn't feel qualified enough, I made up for it by stepping out in faith.

By doing so, that stretched and grew me so much more than just waiting until I felt qualified, which truthfully, I have never felt 100% ready for anything that I have ever decided to pursue.

When faced with a decision, if it's not urgent, we'll naturally try anything to postpone it to a future date. So, the best thing to do is to act on whatever it is you want to do NOW, even if you don't feel ready.  

Once you force yourself to new levels in life, life will demand more out of you and elevate you as well. It's really up to you to take that initial step and show up.

Your willingness shows so much more than your ability, talent, or skill.

Anyone can have all of the above, but if they never show up, it's pointless, right? 

I encourage you to see change within yourself as a precursor to success. When you take on that mindset, you will surprise yourself with what you can accomplish when you reach difficult points in your life. Will you cave in or will you meet the challenges head-on and say, you know what, I got this! I will become a better version of myself in order to level up in life and become better than the person I was yesterday. 

I hope you enjoyed this post and found it to be encouraging. I look forward to doing more inspirational posts like these because I've always been into self-development, and I believe it's so important to stay motivated and inspired every day. I'm rooting for positive change in you and in your life!

What do you think, and what are your thoughts? I'd love to chat in the comments below!

I wanted to finally share my go-to recipe that I reach for when I know that my body needs a quick detox. Although I try to eat as clean as possible on a daily basis, I still fall prey to eating out which exposes me to additives that may trigger a migraine. When dining out, the main culprit is usually Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) or high sodium content, which is usually hidden in pre-made sauces, marinades, and processed foods.

Of course, there can be many other triggers that may set off a migraine or a headache. There have been instances where I didn't drink enough water during the day or woke up on the wrong side of the bed. I also get migraines with PMS, which is like clockwork for me. There are so many factors that can cause an attack, but I can usually pinpoint what has been the cause.

In the past, I used to suffer from severe migraines and was officially diagnosed with it several years ago.

I would literally have a migraine on schedule every few days, which was not only debilitating, but frustrating because I felt like I had no control over my body.

On a mission to cure my migraines without meds, I discovered that there were many ways to overcome them naturally like using cream of tartar. In this post, I'll be talking about one of the ways that have been most effective for me.

Combined with a generally organic, whole foods and unprocessed lifestyle, I have been able to manage my migraines. In instances where I have been exposed to toxins, I quickly know that my body has been exposed to something or is reacting to a trigger and needs a detox.

The 3 ingredients I reach for are apple cider vinegar, organic raw honey, and organic green tea.

Details of how I use these ingredients together to create a natural remedy will be towards the end of this post.

Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

If you haven't been exposed to the ridiculous amount of health benefits that apple cider vinegar has, I'd highly encourage you to check it out. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is a miracle cure for the body, both topically and internally and as a cleansing agent around the home. It's made from apples that are allowed to ferment naturally in wooden barrels, which produce natural enzymes, minerals, and natural acids. Just make sure you get the one with the "mother", which is the raw and unfiltered variety that has all of the beneficial properties intact.

What I love about ACV is its ability to balance the body's alkalinity.

When your body's acid-alkaline state is imbalanced, the body reacts with illness. You may be familiar with pH levels, which is basically the same thing. It's important to understand the chemistry of your body because it is absolutely life-changing to know your body's natural reactions and how to keep it healthy. ACV helps to get your body back into a health-promoting state where your body is in an acid-alkaline balance.

Apple Cider Vinegar also contains high levels of potassium and Vitamin C which aids in reducing pain and inflammation - often associated with migraines and headaches.

---

MY COMPREHENSIVE EBOOK

natural migraine remedies that work

In this ebook, I share my personal story of how I discovered relief with 10 natural migraine remedies, 3 recipes, and my top supplements that work. Enjoy a visual experience with 30 pages of helpful information to get the relief you need and prevent migraines from the start.

---

Organic Raw Honey

Raw honey is not your average honey. Commercial honey is filtered and heated excessively at high temperatures which destroy the natural vitamins, minerals and enzymes that makes it beneficial for health. In contrast with processed honey, raw honey is a health food that contains enzyme-rich propolis (essentially bee glue) and beneficial phytonutrients along with a myriad of naturally-occurring vitamins and minerals. It also contributes to that alkaline-acid balance I was mentioning earlier due to its antioxidant-rich organic acids.

Organic Green Tea

I have found that the presence of caffeine in green tea works amazingly well in combination with the apple cider vinegar to relieve migraine symptoms. 

I do, however, use decaf green tea, which still provides trace amounts of caffeine that still does the trick.

Caffeine is usually used in analgesics, such as aspirin and acetaminophen due to its ability to increase their effectiveness. The amount of caffeine found in a 5-ounce cup of green tea is comparable to that found in over-the-counter pain reliever medications that contain caffeine.

Another reason why caffeine is so effective is how it causes vasoconstriction, whereas the blood vessels in the head constrict. This is beneficial during the onset of a headache or a migraine because blood vessels dilate. Therefore, the process of vasoconstriction can stop a migraine in its tracks.

Green tea has so many health benefits, and it contains more than just caffeine. It contains antioxidants, nutrients, and amino acids which improve brain function and protect the body from oxidative damage and free radicals. It's a powerful detoxifier as it flushes out toxins and enhances digestive functions in the body.

Be aware, however, that caffeine can also be a trigger when used in excessive amounts. Sticking to green tea instead of other forms of caffeine should prevent any reactions that other sources may cause.

A few minerals that I pay special attention to that are present in raw honey and apple cider vinegar are potassium and magnesium which I have found to be essential for me in combatting migraines.

Potassium maintains electrolyte balance keeping the body hydrated. A potassium deficiency can cause severe headaches, which I have experienced in the past. 

A magnesium deficiency can also cause migraines, so it is said that taking magnesium supplements are a good preventative measure. Magnesium also helps with digestion, which works amazingly well for detoxing the body and getting things going (if you know what I mean). 

I could go on and on about the health benefits of the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients present in these ingredients, so I highly encourage further reading for more in-depth information. It's really interesting stuff, and I definitely get into geek mode when it comes to researching about it.

All three ingredients, apple cider vinegar, organic raw honey, and organic green tea - when used together - provide for a powerful and fast-acting migraine and headache remedy.

Imagine your body is a sponge, and by drinking these ingredients, all of the minerals, nutrients, and antioxidants are quickly absorbed into your blood providing quick and natural relief.

Now, here's my natural migraine and headache detox remedy in 2 simple steps:

---

MY 3-INGREDIENT MIGRAINE AND HEADACHE DETOX REMEDY

---

Step 1

Mix 2 Tbsp of organic apple cider vinegar and 1-2 Tbsp of organic raw honey in 8 ounces of filtered water. Drink.

Step 2

Boil 8 ounces of filtered water. Remove from heat and add 1 organic green tea bag. I don't remove the tea bag and just allow it to continue to steep. After a few minutes, add 1-2 Tbsp organic raw honey and stir. Drink.

---

Apple cider vinegar has a strong smell, but don't be turned off by this! The honey makes it taste good and hides the strong taste. Add more honey to your liking. You can drink it with a straw, but I usually go all in and I've never had problems with my teeth being sensitive.

Upon drinking this amazing concoction, I always feel better and more alert. My brain fog clears up and my migraine dissipates. Depending on the type of migraine, it usually goes away very quickly - and I'm not hyping this up, it really works for me.

For this remedy to work, I drink lots and lots of water. I basically drown myself in water! This is the only way the body will get rid of toxins. Sometimes dehydration and mineral or vitamin deficiencies can trigger migraines, so this remedy is a great way to quickly flood the body with essentials.   

I hope you enjoyed this post and that it serves to help you if you suffer from migraines or headaches. I know how bad it can get -  thankfully natural remedies like these and being aware of triggers has helped me manage them. This is just scratching the surface, discover the other many amazing benefits of these ingredients for your health. 

In the comments below, I'd love to hear about what natural remedies have worked for you!

Resources:

• Apple cider vinegar 1

• pH levels 1

• Raw honey 1

• Green tea 1, 2

• Magnesium deficiency 1

• Potassium deficiency 1

Disclosure: This post is purely from my personal experience and for informational purposes only, not to be construed as medical advice. Please seek medical advice from a licensed health practitioner.

Products were provided for review. Please read disclosure at the end of this post.

Uprooted Skincare was founded by Diana, a mother of two who discovered the healing benefits of herbs after suffering from cystic acne caused by hormone imbalance. With research, she was able to naturally cure her hormone imbalance with herbs and became a firm believer in its effectiveness for the skin.

Her story resonates with me because, I too, suffered from acne and tried everything in the book and more. It was only until I turned to natural alternatives that I found how powerful herbs and natural ingredients were to achieving desired results. What worked for my skin since has been tea tree oil and staying away from harsh cleansers.

Diana creates skincare that is 100% natural, vegan, and freshly ground in small batches for maximum potency and freshness. You won't find any chemicals or fillers in her products, just natural ingredients. Her ingredients are not bleached, stripped, decolorized or hardened with high temperatures. You'll know exactly what comes in each product, and she also lists useful information on each ingredient's properties. 

Uprooted currently carries face masks, blush + bronzers, lip balms, primer, and foundation, with new products being added. I received the rose petal + kaolin clay face mask and pomegranate + alkanet lip balm to try.

This pomegranate + alkanet lip balm lip balm smells absolutely amazing! I love how it gives a tint to the lips, how it is so moisturizing, and how it contains one of my favorite healing ingredients, castor oil. It also contains beeswax, jojoba oil, pomegranate oil, and alkanet and hibiscus extract. I've never come across a lip balm that had so many natural healing ingredients in it. It'll be hard for other lip balms to measure up to this one in terms of ingredients now that I found it. 

The rose petal + kaolin clay face mask comes in a nice 4 oz size with 15 or more uses. Since it is in a powder form, you do need to mix it with some type of oil like coconut oil, jojoba oil, yogurt, or other liquid of choice to form a paste. I mixed a tablespoon of coconut oil and powder together which formed a thick paste. To apply, I just rubbed it onto my face with my fingers all the way down to my neck and let it sit for 15 minutes. I then rinsed in off with warm water.

I found this face mask to have lovely rose scent as there are actual freshly crushed rose petals in it. Once you rub it on your face, you'll feel that the texture of this face mask is a little coarse, which I wasn't used to, but I do love the raw textures in this face mask. You can actually see the ingredients as you apply it on your face, which makes it feel luxurious. After I washed my face, I did feel that refreshed feeling from the kaolin clay and my face felt very moisturized. This face mask contains several other beneficial ingredients including marshmallow root and raspberry leaf. Diana outlines all of the ingredients in her descriptions so you know exactly what benefits you'll be getting from each product.

What I really appreciate about Uprooted Skincare is that she makes all of her products fresh and in small batches, which shows a high level of care that she puts into every product. You also get the full potency of the ingredients because you are not buying any fillers. Another thing that I really enjoy is discovering new formulations and ingredients that I wouldn't normally find available. It's fun trying new formulas and really knowing that each has a targeted benefit that will go a long way in making every penny worth it.

I encourage you to check out her other amazing products like her blushes, which are colored using natural ingredients such as beet root powder to create beautiful shades. You can view all of her products on her website, www.uprootedskincare.com or go directly to her Etsy shop. We put together a giveaway on Instagram, so make sure you enter for a chance to win a rose petal + kaolin face mask!

What are your favorite natural skincare products and which UPROOTED product would you love to try? Share with me in the comments below!

---

Disclosure: Please be aware that I share my honest opinions here (positive or negative) regardless of if the products that I am reviewing were provided by the company for consideration. The purpose of this column is to help you, my readers, learn about alternative skincare through my honest reviews. I personally select each company that I will be featuring here, so I wouldn't review a company that I hadn't already found to be beneficial or meeting a certain criteria that I'm looking for in natural products. 

Products were provided for review. Please read disclosure at the end of this post.

I'm excited to be back to share something a little different today. I've been wanting to incorporate more natural living content onto my site because it is another topic that I'm really passionate about. Be it food, cleaning supplies, skincare, etc., I enjoy discovering new ways to live a more simplified, chemical and toxin-free lifestyle. Since I particularly find it difficult when looking for mainstream skincare products that are free of questionable ingredients, I wanted to start a regular column here where I review not-so-mainstream companies to bring awareness to the many amazing alternatives out there. There really is a natural revolution occurring. I see so many great products becoming available, which makes me all sorts of giddy because that means that the demand for these products is growing and more people are becoming aware of the impact that their products have on their health. More demand = better products!

So, to start off this column, I wanted to feature a company that caught my attention, PLANT Apothecary. I discovered them on Instagram, and there were several things about them that stood out to me:

They're serious about ingredients - completely natural, organic, botanicals, essential oils, and absolutely NO harsh and mysterious chemicals (parabens, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), petroleum, silicones, etc.)

They're minimalists - Simple, clean, and straight to the point packaging that doesn't distract from what really matters: real ingredients

They have a sense of humor - With names like GET IT ON, CALM DOWN, and WAKE UP, it's easy to smile when picking up one of their products

They care - (excerpt below from their website)

PLANT products are made with the help of adults with physical and mental disabilities, at the nonprofit BKLYN UNLTD workshop, in Brooklyn, New York. BKLYN UNLTD’s mission is to give disabled adults access to work training and paid work opportunities. 

My favorite part about PLANT is that they don't just say that their products are all-natural and chemical-free. They actually are. You won't find hidden junk in their ingredients list (which I find in a lot of "natural" products). I think that they're one of the first companies that I've experienced where the ingredients are as natural as they get. You could literally eat the stuff!

Samples shown. Full sizes are available.

PLANT carries a variety of skincare products for the face such as masks, cleansers, and oils - to products for the body, such as body washes, body oils, scrubs, and baths. I was able to try all of their body wash samples, and they don't smell like anything I've ever smelled before (in a good way). Each body wash is formulated with a combination of ingredients with known properties to create a truly unique scent and effective formula. Who knew eucalyptus, lemongrass, and rosemary would smell good together? PLANT did. All of their body washes contain only eight simple ingredients, so you'll never have to guess what you're putting on your body. I really enjoyed all of their body washes and was really intrigued by the different scents because they were all so new to me. When I tried them out, the thing that really struck me as genius is how the essential oils used in the body washes diffused into the air as I showered, so it smelled amazing! They were light for my sensitive skin, yet had enough suds to get a lather. I didn't feel like they were at all drying, either.

If you know me, you'll know how much I LOVE matcha, so when PLANT decided to send me a full-size MATCHA Antioxidant Face Mask, I was all over it. I never thought of using matcha on the face, so this was exciting. I mean, why not, right? It smells good, it tastes good, so you can't go wrong!

To use the mask, all I did was mix a teaspoon with a little bit of water and then rubbed it all over my face. I let it dry for about 5-10 minutes, then rinsed it off. Let me tell you, this face mask smells so AMAZING! I'm pretty sure that there's a heaping amount of matcha in there -  no skimping - because it really does have that matcha aroma! It's very creamy when mixed with water and dries really fast once you apply it. A little goes a long way with this product. It made my face feel very clean, purified, and SOFT and had a tightening effect.

Matcha (powdered green tea) is its main ingredient, but it also contains kaolin (white clay), and chamomile oil. Each of these ingredients are calming and soothing to the skin. The matcha helps fight free radicals and reduces inflammation while the white clay purifies. FYI We're giving away one of these on Instagram. Details at the end of this post #waitforit!

Samples shown. Full sizes are available.

I also really enjoyed using the RICE & CLEAN Gentle Facial Cleanser (pictured in middle) and found it really interesting how its main ingredient, rice bran, has long been used in Japan and is said to be their secret for smooth, soft, skin! It naturally contains gamma oryzanol, which has been shown in studies to both soften skin and protect it from UV light damage. Mind blown. Who knew?

It was so gentle and moisturizing on my skin. I don't normally use anything fancy for my face, so discovering this product made me really happy because it's hard to find a gentle cleanser that doesn't strip my face of my natural oils. Did I mention it has chamomile flowers in it? I'm sold. I love chamomile and I do believe in it's soothing properties. It also has an exfoliating effect, so I feel like my face gets softer with ever use as the dead skin cells are gently removed. 

I also have a sample of the SUPER SOAK Organic Healing Bath, but I didn't feel it was enough to use in an actual bath since I'd be needing a 1/2 a cup or 1/4 for a foot soak. I did read up on it and learned about the healing properties of its main ingredients mustard and eucalyptus oil. They both provide gentle pain relief and the aroma of the eucalyptus oil helps clear a stuffy nose. I just love eucalyptus! I keep it all over my house, even in my bathroom because it purifies the air. This bath is really good if you are in need of relaxation from sore muscles, if you have a cold, or have been on your feet all day.

I also received a sample of their ZIT ZAP Organic Spot Treatment Mask, and I can't wait to try it if I ever have blemishes. My skin has been behaving for me lately, so that's good! The cool thing about this product is that it uses the antibacterial properties of basil oil to heal and activated charcoal and kaolin (white clay) to draw impurities out of the skin. It also has such a pretty lavender color that really caught my attention. PLANT knows their stuff when it comes to ingredients!

I'm highly impressed with PLANT products and would recommend them in a heartbeat. I actually learned so many new things that I'm excited to add to my natural living arsenal. I love discovering nature's healing properties through different ingredients, and I find it so intriguing when I learn how to heal and care for my body naturally. If you're interested in finding out more information about PLANT, they have a really nice website where they go into detail about their ingredients and they also host a blog with useful information as well. Their products are available for purchase at plantbrooklyn.com and they also just recently became available at select Target retailers (YAY PLANT) and Target online, so check them out! They are definitely a company to keep an eye out for, and I'm so excited to see their product line grow.

I hope you enjoyed something a bit different here on Hello Lovely Living! I'll be featuring more skincare lines, so make sure to come back for those. And don't forget to enter our giveaway to get your hands on the yummy MATCHA Antioxidant Face Mask!

What are your favorite natural skincare products and which PLANT product would you love to try? Share with me in the comments below!

---

Disclosure: Please be aware that I share my honest opinions here (positive or negative) regardless of if the products that I am reviewing were provided by the company for consideration. The purpose of this column is to help you, my readers, learn about alternative skincare through my honest reviews. I personally select each company that I will be featuring here, so I wouldn't review a company that I hadn't already found to be beneficial or meeting a certain criteria that I'm looking for in natural products. 

A recent watercolor of mine that symbolizes 2016 - a year of me dedicating myself to my art and everything I love.

In a few weeks, I'll be turning 31, which I'm partially freaking out about (lol!), but on the opposite end of the spectrum, I've realized that this past year has brought such tremendous growth for me than any other point in my life, so freaking out is the last thing I should be doing. My 30th year was really a turning point in my life that caused so much change within me.

I want to share my personal story with you guys because I truly feel that ever since I decided to just be myself and not apologize for how I feel or who I am, I've awakened something in me that refuses to let fear of judgment dictate my message or hinder me from being authentically me. I can honestly say that now more than any time in my life, I feel at peace with who I am. I don't ever really share my struggles with anyone so, me coming out and saying this is pretty huge for me. I've reached so many turning points in my life, but the one that has recently impacted the course of my future was when I literally found myself lost with the path I was on and confronting myself - me. The real me.  

You know, all my life I really felt like I was trying to fit myself in somewhere that I thought was where I belonged. It wasn't until a couple of years ago that I realized that I've been running for nearly all my life. The person I was running away from? Myself. I always felt like I had to prove my worth, yet I always felt like I wasn't worth anything at all. It kind of sounds contradictory, right? Why would I try to prove my worth when I felt like I was worthless? I really don't know the answer to that question. I think it becomes an endless cycle of trying to prove your worth when you don't know your true worth. When you're trying to substitute things of false value with your real value, things never really amount to anything. You still feel worthless at the end of the day, and what you are left with is a picture that is completely and utterly not you. That's how I felt.

View fullsize

Now back to that life-changing moment. I really believe that in order to get from point A, where you've built up this false sense of self, to point B, is to literally break. At church this past weekend, the sermon couldn't have been more fitting where my pastor said that one of the most dangerous prayers we could make is for God to break us. Once we are broken, things change and God takes that brokenness and uses it for something entirely new. It's not until we have reached that broken state that God is able to show us something different.

View fullsize

So, that's how I felt at that point in my life right before I started this blog. I didn't know where I was heading. I felt completely lost, and I felt like something needed to change in me. It really took that broken time in my life to reach this current point in my life of tremendous growth. Once I decided to just pursue what I love and not worry about anything else, everything changed, and I felt transformed. I feel like I'm getting to know myself again more each day, and I'm truly embracing me. I'm saying yes to doing what I love. I'm saying yes to every good thing in my life and see ya later to everything else. 

View fullsize

So, now as I move closer to my 31st year, life has an entirely new meaning to me. It means living a life you love. No more chasing after things that aren't authentically me. No more substitutions. If it doesn't bring me greater joy or more love into my life, it's not worth it and not worth my time or energy. I will not change who I am for the validation or comfort of others and I will not let people's lack of love or reciprocation change who I am as a person. I will continue to seek and give love. It's just not worth it anymore to try to prove my love, my worth, or my value to anyone. I am authentically living and doing things that bring joy and love into my life and my family's lives. When you're happy with where you're going in life, the things that are important outshine the things that aren't. 

View fullsize

Life is too short to focus on things that aren't going to make your life more valuable and bring you in touch with your higher self. So, if there's anything that I've done with my story, I hope it has been to inspire you to pursue the real you and to live unapologetically. Pursue what brings you joy. Focus on things that inspire and uplift you and live and pursue a life that you love with no excuses. Once you begin to see life in a different way, so much will happen and you will become so much more energized every morning. Life will take on a new meaning. You'll have a purpose and a conviction that nothing could stand in the way of. 

View fullsize

In 2016, I want to continue to inspire people and really move in the direction of my dreams. So much has happened and there's so much more to come. Thank you for being a part of my story, and I hope you'll stick around for what's to come. 

Would you like to see more posts like these? What was your turning point in life? I'd love to hear about your story. Share with me in the comments below!

Happy New Year!!! I'm so excited about 2016. I wanted to get back into my Inspiration Mondays this week and offer up some words that will inspire you for this new year. Let's get into it! 

It's a brand spankin' new year and that means, let go of 2015; it's time for something new. A new beginning! I am a lover of starting off fresh, not only in the literal sense, but figuratively. A new beginning can start off in the mind, so if you wanted to, you could just say to yourself, "It's a new day, a new week, a new month for change." Change really starts in the mind, so if you're ready to make a change for the better, tell yourself. Our inner dialogue is just as important - if not more important - than the words we speak. 

So since we've created a clean slate, let's talk about what we want to achieve for the new year. I, for one, am so poor at writing down my goals, so when I tell you that it's a must, please believe! Since I'm a visual person, I'd much rather keep my goals at the back of my mind via visions and pictures in my head, which is good, but I definitely could work on actually internalizing those goals and writing them down so that they can become measurable. When you start to see your goals on paper, they become more urgent because they now become tangible. Let's get those goals down on paper!

I think getting our goals on paper is one of the hardest parts because it's kind of like saying to yourself, "Well, now I've got to actually do these things. No more slacking. No more filing these away under the I'll-do-these-things-one-day tab." That's tough. So when you finally get over this hump, you really are on your way toward achieving some very awesome things! Get it girl.

So, what is it that you want to achieve this year? This week? This month? Break it down into smaller, actionable steps. Say your goal is to start making more home-cooked meals for your family. Outline small steps to get you there. For example:

+ Look for easy recipes on Pinterest

+ Create a menu plan for the week

+ Create a grocery list

By breaking it down like this, you won't get overwhelmed with say: 

+ Make more home-cooked meals

With that, your brain will start to go into overdrive and then conk out from getting too overwhelmed with thinking about how you are going to achieve it, rather than the easier, smaller steps I mentioned above. You'll be more inclined to do the small steps as opposed to the larger picture. This goes with any type of goal, so get those babies down to small, baby steps.  

 

---

APPLICATION

---

1 | Create a clean slate

2 | Get your goals down on paper

3 | Break them into small, baby steps

---

I would like to help inspire students, especially in applying this process. It could help tremendously in the many transitions that you will experience during this time in your life.

Once you begin, you're now done with half the battle! I hope you apply these steps and really benefit from them. It's simple, yet will help you be well on your way to getting a lot of stuff done this year. 

What is one goal that you'd like to achieve this year? I'd love to hear about it in the comments below! 

Hi Lovelies! I'm writing this one a wee bit late this week - but hey - better late than never, right? Today, I want to talk about perseverance because I believe it is one of those qualities you absolutely need if you want to achieve anything worthwhile. So, let's get into it!

I love getting inspired by those who are already at the top and connecting the dots to common threads that successful people share. Recently, I've been visually connecting how those that are reaping the rewards of success, at one point, had to persevere through times of not really seeing any results. Well, maybe they did see results, but they were very small and not really encouraging. Perseverance is really those small steps that we take every day that add up to a larger picture (one day). These steps are the ones that are done in the darkness, with no one watching. 

So, really, in order to ever reap a harvest, we must plant seeds NOW, and we must be consistent about it. We will not see them grow right away, but eventually, with consistent and persistent watering, they will. This reminds me of a quote that I came across that said, "The tiny seed knew that in order to grow, it needed to be dropped in dirt, covered in darkness, and struggle to reach the light."

Not only do we need to plant seeds, but we must also go through a lot of discomfort in order to grow. It won't be easy, because nothing worthwhile ever is, but that is really just the test of our perseverance. Are we willing to make the sacrifices now in order to have the life we truly want? Are we going to give up when times get tough? These questions will really determine the course of your future.

When you look at successful people, all you're really looking at is the result of them sowing seeds daily and being committed to the process. What's more is, they don't stop once they reach a certain level of success. They keep planting. They keep pursuing their dream. They keep growing. They don't get comfortable.

No matter where you are at right now in your life, as long as you are planting those seeds daily, you will one day see them grow. A seed is a seed, so no matter how big or how small it is, just keep doing it. Even if it takes 10 years for your dream to come to fruition, just know that you are one day ahead of the other person who has never planted anything towards their future. 

Keep planting, and keep growing. Have an amazing week!

What is one way that you can plant a seed toward your dreams today? Share with me in the comments! 

So, I wanted to share with you guys this really quick and easy way to relieve migraines or headaches. As someone who on occasion suffers from migraines, I know all too well how debilitating it can be. Not only do I get the migraine itself, but I also experience nausea, dizziness, dehydration, and a general brain fog that makes it hard to function.

If you have ever suffered from a migraine, you know that you can sometimes experience an aura or the onset of the migraine before you get it. If I wake up feeling like I got hit by a train, the chances are high that I will end up getting a migraine that day. I have also experienced a heightened sensitivity to light, and just an overall feeling of tension. Not fun.

Due to the proliferation of MSG (monosodium glutamate) in our foods, it's hard to avoid getting a migraine - unless you avoid it completely or happen to be the lucky one who doesn't have a sensitivity to it. And it's not as simple as looking for MSG on the label - it's hidden under many names, so you'd basically have to avoid all processed foods to ensure that you don't come into contact with it. As much as I try to avoid MSG, I still occasionally come into contact with it due to my love of soy sauce - eating out doesn't help either. 

Of course, migraines can also be triggered by more than just MSG. I found out once that I was low in potassium after having to go to the hospital because my migraine was so excruciating. Those were the days when I would literally suffer from a migraine on a regular basis (almost every day).

So, what is this remedy I speak of? To get straight to the point, it is cream of tartar. If there's anyone who has searched and tried natural remedies for migraines, it is me. This has to be one of the fastest working remedies I have tried and I think I have tried everything known to man (well almost). You may have heard about cream of tartar for baking. It's used to stabilize egg whites and whip cream along with other awesome baking tricks. Not only is it natural, but it is completely safe, of course when used in small amounts.

---

My comprehensive ebook

natural migraine remedies that work

In this ebook, I share my personal story of how I discovered relief with 10 natural migraine remedies, 3 recipes, and my top supplements that work. Enjoy a visual experience with 30 pages of helpful information to get the relief you need and prevent migraines from the start.

---

Cream of tartar is a byproduct of winemaking and is potassium bitartrate, or potassium hydrogen. When taken with water, it neutralizes the effects of MSG poisoning and raises the blood PH of the body, creating an alkaline-forming environment. (source) Potassium is an electrolyte, so paired with lots of water, your system will have all that it needs to get hydrated and rid itself of any toxins. It has other known natural uses, so I encourage you to research about it. As someone who tries to avoid medicine at all costs, finding natural remedies is my passion. I also did a post on how to naturally prevent the cold and flu, which is pretty interesting. I've found that it actually makes me identify the root causes instead of masking illness with more toxins in the form of medication.

So, what I did was I mixed 1/2 tsp in 8 oz of water and drank it slowly. The taste is tangy, but not anything disgusting. It reminds me of some type of sour candy, but without the sweetness. Upon drinking this, I immediately began to feel better and the dizziness and brain fog that I was experiencing began to dissipate soon after drinking it. When I was completely done, I felt really hydrated and energized. Not to mention, I had a hard time going to sleep because I had so much energy and all traces of my migraine were gone. Note though, that I did take this as soon as I began to experience migraine symptoms, so it wasn't as severe as it would be if I had let it get full-blown.

I am so thankful that this simple remedy made my migraine disappear. With a baby to tend to, ain't nobody got time for that! Keeping the family strong and healthy is of utmost importance. I hope you enjoyed this post, and please let me know if there are any other migraine remedies you may know about. Thanks so much for sticking through this lengthy post!

Disclosure: This post is purely from my personal experience and for informational purposes only, not to be construed as medical advice. Please seek medical advice from a licensed health practitioner. 

Do you suffer from migraines? What has been your experience? I'd love to hear in the comments below!

---

It's totally natural to feel discouraged, especially when you are headed down a path that may only currently make sense to you. Doing what you feel in your heart to accomplish is often a lonely road filled with many moments where you question the very fabric of who you are. There will be times when you just need someone to reach out to you with some encouraging words. For some, that comes, and for others, it may not.

From a young age, I always felt that in order for me to succeed, I had to push myself and encourage myself. If I didn't do it, no one else would, so I made a promise to be that motivating voice for myself. That was one of the strategies that got me through being a young single mom, through high school while juggling a baby, through college while juggling work, and ultimately, to where I am today. Not only did I not rely on others for their validation or their approval, I took it upon myself to really dig deep within and find that inner strength. 

I know what it feels like to not be encouraged by the people around you, so today, I wanted to focus on how to stay encouraged. It's an important part of the journey of life to stay lifted, so not only should we encourage others, we must focus on ourselves and keep the most important person in the room happy - us! If we're not encouraged, how can we make an impact on this world and the lives of others? It's a cycle that starts with you and I.  

Tap into your inner strength.

Seeking outside validation is the fast track toward defeat. Not only will you get disappointed, but you will get drained looking for validation. Instead, be self-propelled and rely on your inner strength to fuel you. If we give people the power to feed us, we also give them the power to starve us. So, avoid being attached to external voices, which may limit you or give you a false identity. You have it in you to stay motivated, pushed, and propelled. Stay focused on that inner voice.

Surround yourself with the right people.

The people you do surround yourself with should be those that have the ability to uplift you, motivate you, and support your undertakings. Once you make that decision, your world will change because your environment will change. Not only does this include the people physically around you, but your online crowd as well. Flood your social media accounts with motivational content by following leaders and people that inspire.

It's also important to never adapt who you are for someone else or let anyone belittle you, your dreams, or your aspirations in exchange for making them feel comfortable. Instead, seek uplifting relationships and let go of tolerating people that either don't value you or can never step outside of themselves for a moment. You'll be surprised by how many people are out there that will actually support and encourage you because they are confident in their own journey.

Give of yourself.

Build your network around the idea of giving and it will be so rewarding. When you help others, not only does it feel amazing, but you will start to build authentic relationships. Taking our sights off of ourselves sometimes is so important because it allows us to set aside our personal issues for a moment leading us to feel fulfilled with a greater work.

When you discover other people's journeys, you'll start to be encouraged by their story, too. They will inspire you and it will be encouraging to know that you're not the only one going through certain challenges. You'll have the right people to relate to and be able to uplift each other.

Work your tush off. 

There's nothing better than immersing yourself in your passion and blocking out all of the noise and distraction that can cloud our judgement at times. When you simply commit to what makes you happy, not only will you be filled with joy, but you'll be filled with contentment. Focusing on your work can bring so much reward and it will drown out any other voices. Working on your craft will also encourage you to keep at it and put in more work. Every day you will feel like you're walking in your purpose and fulfilling your dreams.

Stay inspired.

Staying inspired every day builds a momentum that only keeps growing. When you focus on creating, coming up with new ideas, projects, planning, and the like, you will be too occupied with the good stuff to be distracted by the bad. When you are inspired, you are happy - and that radiates to other areas of your life. 

---

These are five ways that I have found to be absolutely encouraging in my journey. However, there are still so many other ways to stay encouraged - like having a tub of chocolate ice cream on standby. Who doesn't feel better after ice cream? 

I think the main thing here is to just keep doing what you love to do, and by that, I mean everything. Once you get that ball rolling, it becomes easier to tap into that inner voice that says, "You know what? You're the bomb!" Ok, corny, I know. Haha! Stay encouraged, my friend. I'm here cheering you on!

Speaking of getting the ball rolling, here's an inspiring read that I think you'll like. 

What ways do you stay encouraged? I would love to hear about it in the comments below!

Get rich quick schemes. I know, they are everywhere! Lately I've also been seeing a ton of people claiming they have the "secret" to this and the "secret" to that. These people are everywhere trying to make a buck. Granted, I do believe that there are genuine people out there trying to help others and mentor them. However, we live in a world where it is easy to get distracted by all of the content that flood our feeds daily and promise so much, but actually deter us from the real process that is required to get to the place we want in life.

Now comes the reality. I've always been a very logical and realistic person, which can be good and bad. I really wanted to touch on this subject because I feel that a lot of us get the wrong idea about what it takes to achieve certain things. I'm no exception. It's easy to fall into the mindset that there is a "secret" formula to everything, but the truth that I believe, is that there is none! 

There's a really complex process that we all need to go through to achieve success, and success has different meanings for everyone. No one's journey can be compared to another's, so it's all about honing in on your unique story. Although I don't have it all figured out, I do know now, in this part of my journey, that in order to get to the place where we want to be, we must make choices - often those that we're unsure of. Sometimes those choices will lead us down paths that we don't like, but to get to the right place, we must be prepared for some detours. The very choices we make will lead us closer and closer to the right path, but first, we must have the courage to walk places that we are uncertain about to a degree. Overthinking can cause us to become paralyzed by fear of the unknown, and the only way past that is to just take action. 

"All we need is within, but action alone will illuminate the next step." Brendon Burchard

Every day I learn just how important the process is and how we must go through the good and the bad. I was telling my husband how things for me, did not make sense over night, and I still have to step out and make choices that I'm not so sure of. I don't think that will ever end. Looking back, it really took years to finally get to a place where I finally had that contentment with where I saw myself headed. 

"The journey to achieving our dreams is the reward, not the dream itself."

Many of us may be looking for a way out, a solution, or someone to tell us what to do - the secret and the answer that will solve everything. I'm here to tell you that the answer is within you. So, before you look to outside sources, get connected with your unique journey and look at all of the pieces that got you to where you are now. You will begin to see things differently once you focus on yourself instead of looking for the cookie-cutter model of success.

I really encourage you to have faith in the process and to trust that everything will make sense in the end. Have the courage to do the things your heart is pulling you toward. Once you do it, it will lead you to the next step, and the next ... 

Stay inspired, lovelies! <3

Did you connect with this post? I would love to hear your feedback in the comments below. 

It's Monday, and I'm excited! You know, once upon a time, I wasn't this chipper about Mondays because I fell into the norm that is hating that the weekends were over. But now, after taking on a different perspective that every day is just as important as the other, I get ecstatic because it's like starting fresh and brand new all over again. I am all about new beginnings. Every single day should be a new beginning filled with things that enliven us and get us enthusiastic about life.

In this week's Monday Inspiration, I share a quote that I live by: "Growth requires change." One of the certainties in life is that there will always be change, so we must learn to embrace it and use it as a launching pad. Change forces us to reevaluate everything we once knew. What was once comfortable is no longer comforting and secure to us. It forces us to look for alternatives that we otherwise would not have discovered had we not been shaken. It forces us down paths that we thought were impossible or scary. God is more concerned about our growth than our comfort. So, when you find yourself down a path that seems so challenging, realize that you are moving toward a better version of yourself. 

When change comes, get excited, because that is where all of the excitement lies. That is where you will discover how thrilling life can be outside of your comfort zone. If you feel stuck or lost at any point in your life, do something that scares you! Usually the thing that we most fear of is the very thing we need to be doing. I hope this idea sparks something within you to embrace change and take on a new perspective about it daily. Have an absolutely amazing week! <3

How do you deal with change? I would love to hear about it in the comments below!

"I love getting sick!" - said no one, ever! But, really, sometimes our health habits can speak otherwise leaving our bodies susceptible to illness or maybe we think we're doing all the right things and we still get sick (raises righ hand). Then there are those times that we can't help  - when our kiddos bring home the flu. When we get sick, what our body is really saying is, "I can't take it anymore!" It's like an engine that needs clean fuel to run properly, and when we are not giving our bodies the clean nutrient dense food that it needs to function optimally, it wears down and will break down eventually. Here, I share my tried and true way that I use to prevent the flu from turning into a full-blown attack - but there is a catch! Read on to find out more.

So, a while ago, in my quest for better health, I discovered that our bodies must maintain a pH that is alkaline in order to thrive and be healthy. On the other end of the spectrum - if our body is highly acidic - it will create an environment conducive to illness. So, what is pH and why care? Kris does an awesome job of explaining it here. Generally, our bodies are constantly working to maintain an acid-alkaline balance, and the food we eat plays a huge role in this fine balance. To prevent getting sick, we must do our best to eat mineral-rich plant foods and eliminate the chemical-laden processed foods and poor lifestyle choices that are a detriment to our long term health.

So, no one's perfect, right. You get sick. What's next? Well, what if I told you that you didn't (always) have to, and that if you catch it right when the early warning signs begin, you could prevent it? Yep, you can nip it in the bud and not get sick! And the award goes to a wonderful herb called ... Echinacea! 

So, you may be thinking I'm some sort of crazy herb lady now, but really, I'm not (no shade on crazy herb ladies)! Echinacea is an herb that you can read more about here and here. It's known for it's ability to abort colds and flus from onset, shorten the duration, lessen symptoms and ...(drumroll please) ... it is completely natural! If you know me, you know that I love things that way.

Speaking from experience, if I catch the first signs of a cold or flu coming, I am able to completely stop it in its tracks. That is the catch - you gotta take it immediately when you start sensing that you're getting sick. Other times, I was a little late and wasn't able to prevent it from turning south, but taking Echinacea shortened the flu's duration. This is also the moment I realize I need to get back on the health train, so I load up on water, lemon water with honey, apple cider vinegar, and ginger! I'll explain this concoction in a future post. Cleansing your body is the fastest way back to health. 

Here's what I use:  Solaray Organic Echinacea Angustifolia Root Supplement, 450 mg, 100 Count or Nature's Way Echinacea Herb, 180 Capsules, 400 mg

There are different varieties of Echinacea, the most common being Angustifolia and Purpurea. Angustifolia is said to be most effective because it is made from the root of the plant, while Purpurea is made from the flower and leaf. I take 3 capsules 3x a day as soon as I notice flu-like symptoms such as a runny nose, itchy throat, sluggishness, or sneezing. I usually only have to take 3-6 capsules before my symptoms are completely gone. If I happen to be sick, it shortens the duration of my sickness of about 3-4 days. I also take it if someone around me is sick to protect me from catching it. 

Now that the secret's out, take that virus! I hope this article was helpful! I encourage you to do your research about Echinacea for more detailed information. Of course, Echinacea is a last ditch effort, so prevention is always better. 

Have you tried Echinacea before? I would love to hear about it in the comments! 

Disclosure: This post is purely from my personal experience and for informational purposes only, not to be construed as medical advice. Please seek medical advice from a licensed health practitioner. 

Happy Monday Loves!

I hope you all had a reenergizing weekend and loads of rest! You may have noticed that instead of Motivation Monday, my title now reads Inspiration Monday instead - and there is a reason behind this. I came across something that inspired me and made me think a little bit deeper about motivation and what drives us. In this post, I'll be talking about motivation vs inspiration. Is there a difference or are they one and the same?

So, to begin with, what is the definition of motivation? The first definition that pops up is, "the reason or reasons one has for acting or behaving in a particular way." The second definition is, "the general desire or willingness of someone to do something." To break it down even more, motivation is a reason or the desire to do. So, generally speaking, it's seeking reasons or the desire to do something before we actually do it. 

Did you know that one of the synonyms for motivation is inspiration? Inspiration is defined as "The process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to do something creative." So, what is the difference between motivation and inspiration? Inspiration is moreso a process, while motivation is a means to an end. Motivation seeks reasons and the desire to do something, while inspiration requires that you seek stimulation, which naturally elicits a response.

What we need is to look within and create, invent, design, imagine, dream, but most of all live! The only way to really stay on a course for a long time and not burn out is to continuously create, do. Like I said in my previous post, action breeds confidence. Another definition of inspiration is "an act of breathing in; an inhalation." So, really, anything can inspire. A walk in the park, a drive down a dirt road, the way the wind blows through a field, or an emotion that you feel. 

Being inspired is important to discover new things that will open up your eyes to the vast world around us and the limitless possibilities. Find what inspires you and look within to cultivate original work and ideas. I remember coming across a saying that always stuck with me, which says, "An artist is just good at hiding his sources." We all give and we all take from the world. The important thing, though, is that we discover what we want to give and that we keep doing it. Inspiration breeds creativity, so never stop inhaling or breathing in what's around you. When you are inspired, a natural reaction follows, and that is your passion. 

I hope you enjoyed this! Stay inspired, and follow along for more inspiration every day! <3

What inspires you, and what topics would you like me to discuss? Share with me in the comments below!  

Hey loves, so I read this excerpt by Mindy Kaling - which I also shared on the Hello Lovely Living Facebook page - and it got me thinking about confidence a little bit deeper. It also made me realize just how much of a struggle it is to many of us. To some degree, we all struggle with insecurities. Yes, some people are better at masking their insecurities and lack of confidence, but the truth is, we all deal with it in different ways - sometimes better than others. 

When you look at a person, what are the characteristics that, to you, exude confidence? Although we'd like to think many are just "born" with confidence, that is far from the reality of things. Many of the most confident and successful people in the world did not start out that way. Actually, they struggled with self-doubt or still struggle with it. How many stories have you heard about the underdog rising to greatness? A lot, right?

It reminds me of an excerpt that I recently came across that said, "If you want to shrink something, you must first allow it to expand. If you want to get rid of something, you must first allow it to flourish. If you want to take something, you must first allow it to be given. This is called the subtle perception of the way things are. The soft overcomes the hard. The slow overcomes the fast. Let your workings remain a mystery. Just show people the results." - Lao Tzu 

Isn't it amazing how, in order to become the very thing we want to become, we must oftentimes first experience the opposite of that, so that we can learn to overcome it? People will not always see or realize that in order to get to a place of confidence, we must first go through a place of doubt and insecurity. It is in that testing ground that we build character, which ultimately develops our confidence.

Life's all about opportunities to change and insecurity is an opportunity: In this case, to rise up and step out beyond what you thought you were capable of. I, myself, have found that there were several seasons in my life where my confidence was at an untouchable high and I felt as if I could accomplish anything - then there were times where I experienced unquestionable lows, where I felt defeated. Confidence is not something you gain once and never have to build up again. It's something you have to constantly cultivate and develop within yourself daily. It's something that you can lose so easily, too.

So, in my experience, where do I think confidence comes from? Action. You know that very thing that you are extremely scared of doing? That thing that makes your heart beat fast and gives you butterflies? Do it! Yes, that thing. When we do not do the thing that gives us life, we are only adding to that deep insecurity that lives in us - that voice that says, "You can't do it. You're not smart enough." And on and on. The only thing that will drown out those voices is action. The moment you step out is your defining moment, which says, "I believe in myself. I have what it takes. I can do this."

Once you take consistent leaps, you'll begin to see a change in yourself and you will see that confidence is not about what you look like, what your background is, where you come from, or reserved for a special type of person, etc. It's your effort and how much you are willing to step out that determines how much confidence you have at the end of the day, because every step proves to yourself that you can do it, and that you will do it - and succeed. It's that belief in yourself and consistent action that will develop you and make you grow so that you can be prepared for the next level of challenges.

So, love, what is it that you've been shying away from doing, from stepping into? You have everything you need within you to accomplish what it is that your heart is leading you towards. The only thing to do next is take a step and believe in yourself. <3

So, how do you build your confidence? I'd love to hear in the comments! Make sure to follow me on Facebook where I share a lot of inspiring content. 

Refreshing, easy, and colorful is the theme of my curated collection of vegan summer sweets. Cool down, grab something sweet, and enjoy your time soaking up the last of those summer days. I know, I'm sad that it will be over soon, too. Warning: You may just want to eat any number of these recipes immediately - so get ready to head to the grocery store! 

1. Summer Celebration Fruit Tart: How pretty is this tart! It's incredibly simple to make, and what makes this tart so summery are the fresh seasonal fruits and delightful toppings like fresh herbs and bee pollen. This picturesque tart is almost too pretty to eat, and it's vegan and gluten-free. What could be any better on a summer's day? (via My New Roots)

2. Stecco Gelato: This "stick ice cream" as it is translated to contains two of my all-time favorite fruits: blackberries and raspberries. The color of these popsicles are so rich and I am guessing that they taste just the same. These are a perfect treat on a hot, sunny day, or for those mid-afternoon moments when you get a sweet tooth. (via Smile, Beauty and More)

3. No Bake Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake: I love how vegan recipes look so beautiful and use the freshest ingredients. Isn't that the best part about eating - eating with your eyes? And I just loooove blueberries. They're so easy to add to anything, they taste amazing, and they are packed with antioxidants among other super-fruit powers! Everything about this recipe takes the guilt out of dessert. The crust is made from almonds and dates and the filling contains coconut oil, coconut milk, and cashew nuts. I can just imagine how creamy this is! (via Call Me Cupcake)

4. Coconut Lavender Lemonade: That color - I have never seen a prettier lemonade in my life! It's hard to describe the taste of lavender, but it's really light and refreshing, so don't be scared to try it. Since floral notes are not for everyone, you can get creative with this idea of infusing lemonade with various flavors. Coconut water is very hydrating and will give you that boost of energy on those hot days. (via Confectionalism)

5. Cantaloupe in Coconut Rose Cream: The color of this delightful creation screams SUMMER! Doesn't it make you feel refreshed just looking at it? Cantaloupe was made for summer, agree? This is completely dairy-free, too. What's the white stuff, you ask? Coconut cream. Coconuts are so versatile for vegan recipes as you've seen so far. And there's something hidden that makes this recipe so interesting. It's the rose water and cardamom powder that just do it for me. I'm dying to try it! (via Kiran Tarun)

Now that I've officially prepared a feast for your eyes, which recipe are you convinced will make you turn vegan? Haha, kidding. You don't need to become a vegan to eat vegan or feel pressured that you must say an oath. I love that there are so many recipes accessible today that show you that you don't have to sacrifice taste for eating healthy. If anything, you gain so much more flavors because vegan recipes often contain diverse ingredients that you may have never tried together. It's an adventure for your senses, so why not escape for a little bit and try something new. <3

Which of these recipes do you hope to try? Share with me in the comments!

It's Monday, and I am excited that it is a brand new week! Today, I want to motivate you to make your dreams happen. Small, consistent steps in the direction of your dreams will get your results, so no matter how small those steps may seem, do it! I want to share something with you guys - it took me years to finally start this blog. And when I finally got started, I actually had the site setup a year prior to finally publishing my first post. Something was holding me back from actually making my dream happen. What was it? Looking back, I'm not sure exactly what could've been so big that could deter me from doing it. I had this problem with things needing to be perfect, so maybe that's the reason? Taking that first step is always the hardest part because the unknown can be scary. Sometimes inaction breads insecurity, too. So, the best thing to do is to just do something. It doesn't matter if it doesn't make sense to you at first because eventually it will!

You know that saying, "Dreams don't work unless you do."? It's true. To all my dreamers out there, I know how it feels to have a ton of ideas and feel almost paralyzed. Questions flood my mind: Where do I start? What will happen if...? And the list goes on. Sometimes our minds can deter us by rationalizing and over-thinking things. The best way to figure things out is to try. Even if it ends up that you don't enjoy it - at least you know, and you can move on to the next thing. This has been strategy in life. I have a ton of interests that pull me in all sorts of directions, and I can't focus on one. Everything that I've ever pursued was based on the desire to do it. I wasn't sure if it was what I wanted - I only knew that I had an interest there. It turned out, after pursuing many of my interests, that they where just that. I didn't want to do it for the rest of my life and it wasn't my passion. I'm finally starting to figure out what it is that I love to do. I'm finally getting to pursue what is in my heart.

Now back to that problem that I had with "perfection". That's one big road block to making your dreams happen. If you wait for the perfect time, the perfect conditions, the clouds to part - nothing will ever happen and all you will be doing is wasting time. This was my struggle, and as soon as I got past wanting everything to be perfect, something changed in me and I was free! Perfectionism can be hindering you from pursing your dreams, so even if things are not perfect, that's okay! No one ever started at a place of perfection, so you don't need to either. Starting from where you're at with what you have is all it takes to get your dreams in motion.

Once you've taken conscious steps and are on the path towards your dreams, you will start to see things come together and new opportunities come your way that you never had imagined. A decision can be your defining moment. So, make a decision, and then do it - consistently and persistently. Your dream is waiting for you!

5 Takeaways:

1. Make a decision: Commit to your dream.

2. Start small: Start where you are, with what you have.

3. Ditch perfection: You don't need to have it all figured out.

4. Be consistent: Take action every day, even if they are small steps.

5. Be persistent: Don't give up!

I hope this inspires you to make your dreams happen, starting today. <3

Will you be making a decision today? Share your dreams with me in the comments!

Kale's one of those leafy vegetables that, at first, seem a little intimidating. Its tough appearance and deep green color give you the idea that it may taste bitter and need a ton of cooking to soften it; however, that isn't the case. Kale has a mild taste and can be eaten raw, which is actually the best way to eat it!

I love using kale in soups and stews or even baking them to make kale chips for a healthy snack. They are very high in Vitamins A, K, and C and numerous other beneficial nutrients that are amazing for your immune system and provide antioxidant and anti-aging properties. Learn more about kale HERE. 

Here's a simple recipe that you can whip up in no time and get your healthy on. It's a great salad to make in advance because it tastes even better when it sits and the kale soaks up all of that yummy dressing. It's slightly sweet and tart and has great texture. I hope you can try it out!

Kale & Honey Apple Pecan Slaw/Salad

Author: Hello Lovely Living

Published April 1, 2015

Servings: 3-4

Prep: 15 mins

Cook: 0 mins

Total time: 15 mins

Ingredients

• 3 branches of kale
• 1 granny smith apple, cut into 1/2 cubes
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 1/2 cup light mayonaise
• 3 tsp raw honey
• 1/4 cup pecans
• a pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Tear kale leaves into small pieces and discard rib part. Place in a medium sized bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, combine cubed apples and lemon juice and let sit for a few minutes.
3. Combine mayonaise and honey in a separate bowl. Add to kale and toss well to coat. Add apples and pecans. Mix well.
4. Add a pinch of salt to taste and combine.
5. Enjoy!

Notes

• Add dried cranberries or any other types of nuts and seeds that you like.

---

Wasn't that so simple! I love recipes like this because they don't require any cooking time and there's less mess in the kitchen. 

This kale slaw would be a great side to go with a sandwich or wrap - or if you want to make it a meal on it's own, it's pretty filling for that too!

Hope you enjoyed this recipe! What other recipes would you like for me to share?

xo stina

Once upon a time, I was a skincare hoarder

Let's admit it, we women are obsessed with our skin; its appearance, tone and texture, the size of our pores - and let's be honest - we would go to the ends of the earth to find that one miracle product if it would solve our life's mission: perfect skin. It's a symbol of our youth and health, and we take it very seriously. I, for one, have always been a skincare fanatic and have always loved trying new products, so naturally, I was the first to get sucked into the pretty packaging and colorful words. 

Flash forward many products and disappointments later, and finally, something had to give. I was trying all these products, yet getting the same results; I still had poor skin, and I sure wasn't happy that I had spent a lot of money in the process. I struggled with acne, which made matters worse. 

After many years of looking for that "miracle" product, I began a different approach: learn about skin and what it truly needs to be healthy. What I gathered over the years changed my mindset about everything I knew about skin up to that point. 

1. Balance

Everyone's skin is different, but one thing is certain: to achieve optimal skin health, it must maintain a balance of natural oils to keep it hydrated and supple. We are taught from the get-go that oil is bad, but this is wrong. Oil is our skin's way of keeping it hydrated, supple, and protected. 

Introducing the best facial cleanser, it effortlessly removes makeup and impurities while leaving your skin feeling fresh and rejuvenated. Traditional skin cleansers tend to upset the natural balance that our skin works so hard to maintain and strips the natural oils away, thus creating a recipe for disaster.

Our skin either overcompensates for that loss by overproducing sebum (the oil our skin produces) or our skin gets insanely dry and we have to load on moisturizers. Moisturizers normally have alcohol in them, which can also be very drying on the skin.

A healthy balance of natural oils is your best friend, so find a mild cleanser that is gentle on the skin. Sometimes skipping a cleanser and opting for your trusty H2O works even better to maintain your skin's balance. It truly depends on what skin type you have and what works for you. 

2. Hydrate  

Hydration is not only good for your skin, it is good for your entire body. This is how toxins are flushed out of your system. And by this, I mean filtered water.

Drinking sugary beverages is terrible for your skin, and they may add to the fact that you are dehydrated. They often contain sodium, which actually makes you thirstier, so no matter how much you drink, your body will not get the hydration it needs. 

To know if you are getting enough water throughout the day, listen to your body. Usually, by the time you are thirsty, you will have already lost one to two percent of your body's total water supply. Simply drinking water can make you look years younger!

See how this woman took ten years off her age by drinking three litres of water a day for thirty days!

3. Natural is best

Did you know that mass-marketed skincare products are loaded with tons of harmful ingredients? Just take a look at the ingredients list and see just how many chemicals they contain. I know it's easy to overlook this, but it is important to know exactly what you are putting on your skin. What goes on you has an impact on your health just as much as what goes in you.

Look for products that do not contain known carcinogens such as phthalates, parabens, petroleum-based ingredients, and other non-plant-derived ingredients. Natural oils such as unrefined organic coconut oil are great for your skin because it does not clog your pores and has healing properties. Others such as jojoba oil, mimic the natural oils that your skin produces, so it does not leave you feeling oily.

Choose organic products whenever you can - to avoid ingredients that contain traces of harmful pesticides. And my favorite: make something yourself out of natural ingredients that you can find in your kitchen! 

Check out the Think Dirty app or the Skin Deep app and learn about the potentially toxic ingredients in your cosmetics and personal care products. 

4. Exfoliate

Like any canvas, you must start with a clean surface. When dirt and dead skin accumulate and mix with sebum, a breeding ground for bacteria is created, which causes acne. This is why it is so important to exfoliate regularly.

Depending on your skin type, you can decide how often it is necessary. Oftentimes, simply exfoliating your skin can make a dramatic impact on its appearance and texture. You can easily make effective masks and exfoliators out of ingredients in your kitchen.

Here's one of my favorite exfoliating masks:

Green Tea Sugar Scrub

• 2 Tbsp Organic green tea

• 2 Tbsp Organic sugar

• 1 Tbsp Raw honey

Directions: First brew yourself a cup of green tea. Take 2 Tbsp of the green tea and add it to a small bowl. Cool it down to room temperature and then mix in the sugar and honey until well incorporated. Evenly cover your face with the mask and let sit for 10-15 minutes or until it dries. Enjoy your cup of green tea while you wait. ^ _ ^ Rinse and pat dry, then follow with your moisturizer.

5. Moisturize 

Moisturizing your skin after you have cleansed will ensure that your skin is well-hydrated and prepared for the day or night ahead. I recommend that you listen to your skin as far as how often you moisturize and what type of moisturizer to use.

Everyone will have different needs and moisturizers are not cut out the same for everyone. What works for me is using a Vitamin E moisturizer, and I have also tried jojoba and unrefined organic coconut oil. Since it is currently winter, my skin has been incredibly dry, so I make sure to slather it on. Moisturized skin is happy skin! 

Sometimes having overly dry skin can also create breakouts because dead skin cells pile up more rapidly, so make sure to exfoliate well before you moisturize.

6. Protect 

Having a diet rich in healthy saturated fats (such as coconut oil) and omega-3s (such as fish oil), and consuming plenty of dark leafy greens, will provide natural protection from the inside out. Vitamin E protects against free radical damage that causes wrinkles, and it also helps to boost collagen production to help treat and repair skin. 

Chemical sunscreens may do more harm than good, instead, I try to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun when possible. I believe that the sun in moderation is good for you, as it provides natural Vitamin D. Should you choose to use sunscreen, learn some background information on the different types of sunscreens available. For those seeking natural methods of sun protection, here's a great resource. 

If you follow all of these steps, you are well on your way to healthier skin! Let me know what works for you in the comments below. 

My skincare products

• Cleanser: Burt's Bees Soap Bark & Chamomile Cleansing Cream

• Moisturizer: JASON Vitamin E Creme

• Makeup Removal: Unrefined Organic Coconut Oil and Basis Sensitive Skin Bar Soap or Dr. Bronner's Castile Soap

• Breakouts or Spot Treatment: Tea Tree Oil

• Body: Pacifica Body Butter Tuscan Blood Orange

• Underarms: Natural Crystal Deodorant

• Lips: EOS Lip Balm

• Hands: Pacifica Body Butter Indian Coconut Nectar and Ruby Guava (travel size)

When shopping for skincare products, I try to look for those that contain ingredients that are as close to nature as possible. I look for those that do not contain parabens, phthalates, petroleum-based ingredients, or ingredients that are not plant-derived. Many mass-marketed products contain ingredients with potential health impacts such as carcinogenicity, developmental and reproductive toxicity, allergenicity, and immunotoxicity.

Sometimes it is hard to completely avoid certain ingredients, so looking for safer alternatives makes a huge difference in lessening your exposure to toxins. It is also possible to completely remove toxic exposure by going completely natural and making your own skincare products at home and/or using products that do not contain any harmful ingredients. 

The products that I currently use all are within a moderate toxicity rating - meaning that some of my products’ ingredients have potential moderate negative long-term health effects, while some do not contain any ingredients that have a documented negative health impact.

My overall rating according to the Think Dirty app was a 3, which means that my bathroom is rated clean! Despite this, I would still like to continue to switch to completely natural products, so I will continue to look for safer and healthier alternatives. 

Download the Think Dirty app or the Skin Deep app and search from thousands of personal care products to see how your products rate in terms of toxicity and also learn about their ingredients. Choose from safer alternatives.

It's all about finding what works best for you. I hope this post was informative and helpful! Let me know what your bathroom rating is using the Think Dirty app!

xo, stina