Baby, it's cold outside. But, inside, now that is a completely different story! I'm the type of person that loves to keep my home warm and toasty. And my baths - hot! No matter what season it is, a nice, hot bath is always a good idea, especially in the winter months.

Today, I'll be sharing my idea of a perfect relaxing bath during winter. It could be snowing and storming outside, but I want my bathroom to feel like a tropical green getaway straight out of a magazine. Not too much to ask, right? I'm going to show you how to do the exact same thing so you can also enjoy a little at-home retreat.

I'll also be talking about WETSTYLE, a high end bath furnishing brand headquartered out of Montreal that I simply fell in love with. Their bathtubs are a dream - and yes, I am currently dreaming of that perfect bathtub for my one-day dream home! Stay around toward the end of this post to see these beautifully modern, minimalist, and eco-friendly tubs that I speak of. I'm all over it and absolutely obsessed (can you tell)!

Would you believe that this entire setup only cost around $11! In Mariah Carey's famous words: yaaass, daaahhhling! As you can see, greenery and flowers can instantly transform an ordinary bath into something luxurious. 

Sometimes you just need a quick little escape from reality, and in this case, winter! I'm all over this idea because the winter months can be a difficult time for me. I don't do well staying trapped inside with overcast weather, which is often the case during this time of the year. This is exactly something that would definitely cheer me up, and I'm hoping it will do the same for you, too!

When choosing flowers and greenery for your bath, go with what makes you happy! Baby's Breath and ferns are perfect for me because I don't consider them a splurge, so I won't feel guilty about buying them. They are just as beautiful as any other flowers (in my opinion), so I still get the same effect without spending a whole lot. I bought two bundles for around $7, and for that, I was very proud of. You could also sprinkle lavender petals in your bath, which I think would smell amazing! Grocery stores that sell bulk items usually have them in the spice section.

Now, if you're a bottle/glass hoarder like me, now's the time to put those bad boys to use. I have tons of them laying around the house, but I'm sure you can find some in your cabinets. The key is to repurpose what you do have, so any glass jars or bottles of varying sizes will do! The more the merrier, so come one, come all! Fill them with water, then arrange your flowers into each. If you want to get even fancier, head to your local Goodwill and pick up a bunch of quirky bottles. I picked up a few, and it was so worth it!

Now, arrange your ferns around your tub as you wish. I chose to do it on opposite corners to frame my tub. This literally only takes a few minutes! Save a few ferns and flowers to drop into the water - I swear, this is the prettiest thing you will EVER see! Floating leaves and flowers just make me imagine being in a river, which is so relaxing in itself. I just can't get over how beautiful it looks. 

Finally, arrange tea light candles around your tub, and place your bottles on each corner of the tub to create a garden effect. Fill your tub with water and drop a few flowers and ferns in, followed by any bath products you may want to use. 

The water will look a beautiful blue, and the flowers will cast the most beautiful shadows onto the walls. It's the most relaxing thing ever. Light those candles, and instantly be transported somewhere heavenly! 

Doesn't it just look so relaxing!! I can't get over it. Now, since I do live in an apartment, it's even more special doing something like this every now and then. Sometimes living in an apartment can make you feel like you can't do certain things, but that shouldn't stop you from creating a space that you love.

You can still create a warm and inviting setting and make it feel like home, even if it is just a temporary living space. It took me a while to accept this fact, but once I did, my apartment became a home and felt like it. You don't need to have the perfect house to make things "feel" special or add a touch of luxury. 

Don't forget relaxing music, a book, some wine? Whatever it is that makes you feel relaxed, do that! I can guarantee you that putting a little extra effort into setting all of this up will make all the difference. I instantly felt relaxed by this space, and I'm sure it will do the same for you!

Speaking of which, I told you I would talk about WETSTYLE and show you some of their stunning bath furnishings that I am utterly obsessed over. They seriously got me thinking about my dream bathroom, so I am excited to share a little bit about them and why I am so impressed.

First off, I adore the design of their bath furnishings. I mean, look at it! I am all about quality, and everything about this company stands for that. Most importantly, they use sustainable materials in the construction of their products and offer the purest and most environmentally friendly material in the industry with WETMAR BiO™, an eco-friendly thermo-insulating material made primarily from a mix of Mother Earth’s natural ingredients – soy and mineral stone.

I also love the fact that WETSTYLE has pioneered a proprietary and code-compliant recipe that uses soy and vegetable extracts to replace the petrochemical-based resins in heavy use by the industry. Excuse the geek-mode status, but this stuff gets me going!

Their Cloud Bathtub, pictured above illustrates their newest brand, W2 by WETSTYLE's design aesthetic perfectly: relentless attention to quality, simplified design, elegance, and timeless transitional design.

All of WETSTYLE's bathtubs and wash-basins are made exclusively from the WETMAR BiO™ material that I just mentioned, while its furniture is crafted from hand using sustainable hardwoods! We're talking real wood, which is hand-stained and sourced from renewable forestry - not to mention, moisture, stain, and damage resistant! 

The tub you see above is their Wave Bathtub, which is my favorite. How sleek is it! I love the clean lines and minimalist feel of their products. Their vanity floats, which gives the illusion of more space - perfect for smaller bathrooms.

If you know me, you may know that I am all about environmentally conscious companies. So, I was instantly intrigued with their attention to detail and their environmentally conscious philosophy. Of course, we can't ignore the fact that the design is simply gorgeous. Can I please just swap my tub for one of these really quick!?

Their new brand, W2 by WETSTYLE, which was introduced last year is designed for smaller spaces, so in all of these photos, you can see just how perfectly the bathtubs fit into such tight spaces without compromising design or function.

WETSTYLE has 250 showrooms across North America, Europe and the Caribbean in addition to it's headquarters in Montreal, so if you're in the market to makeover your bathroom with premium bath furnishings with a focus on design + sustainability, they are definitely worth a look! I know I will be bookmarking them for future reference.

Their bold and original designs have won many awards including Winner of the prestigious 2015 Green GOOD DESIGN Award for sustainable design, as Awarded by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design. How cool is that!

If you're interested in finding a WETSTYLE dealer near you, I have linked their "find a dealer" page at the button below.

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wetstyle

montreal, canada

WEBSITE | twitter | pinterest | Facebook

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I hope you enjoyed this fun little post and that it inspires you to treat yourself a little special this winter! A special thank you to WETSTYLE for partnering with me to bring you this post.

What is your idea of a perfect bath for winter? I'd love to hear your tips in the comments below!

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of WETSTYLE. The opinions and text are all mine.

Do you ever wonder how some people can stay so focused no matter what is happening around them?

Gosh, what is up with those people!? An asteroid could be approaching earth, and they'd still be in their own world.

Confession. I'm one of those very people. *covers eyes*

I'd like to offer some insight into the mind of someone (me) who can stay freakishly focused.

Oh, I do have my moments (don't get me wrong), but it does take a lot - and I mean a A LOT - to get me distracted.

Once I set my heart on something, it's done. It's over. I will follow through.

Now, for the positivity - that has taken a lot of work for me over the years. It'll always be a work in progress for me, but I think staying focused + positive go hand-in-hand.

I'll be sharing 10 ways that have worked for me in staying focused + positive in business and in life. 

I hope this will be helpful to those of you who are trying to find that balance. 

Before we start, first thing's first: I want to point out something so important.

We are all born with unique traits and abilities that come natural to us without us even trying. Once you identify what those are for you, you'll have a better hold on yourself and on life.

Self-awareness is an important step in understanding how to stay focused + positive because only you know what motivates you.

When you have control over yourself, you become stronger and more able to deal with anything in life. We can't always control what happens in life, but we can control our actions and how we respond to things. 

So, what does this have to do with this post? I want to stress the importance of knowing your strengths and realizing that those were given to you for a reason.

I used to absolutely hate the fact that I was so observant. Absolutely hate it. You know why?

Because I saw everything. I couldn't close my eyes to things (oftentimes hurtful things), because my eyes were so open and soaking in everything. I'd notice details that no one else would.

As I grew older, I realized that this was one of my gifts.

I'd like you to first discover and identify your unique gifts and actually use those to your advantage in staying focused + positive.

Capitalize on those natural abilities you have. You do it best, and that is why you need to use them.

Once you identify your unique gifts in all areas of life, you will have a better hold on dealing with things. Your weaknesses wouldn't matter because you'd be focusing on your strengths.

This is powerful. 

So, now let's get into how I personally stay focused + positive. Here we go!

1| Pause

Hit the pause button.

This has saved much heartache, and it will continue to save me much heartache.

We all have the natural tendency to judge situations before they even have time to simmer. I am guilty all the time. I worry A LOT. I question things A LOT.

But, the one thing that has saved me most times is taking a minute to let things play out, naturally.

When we rush things, we end up reacting in ways that may not be authentic to ourselves. We may say or do things that aren't the best representation of us.

Many times, I've also found that my emotional state at the moment had influenced my reactions as well. So many factors come into play when situations arise, so taking a minute to digest everything works wonders.

Learn to respond, not react. This means, when something happens, instead of instantly reacting, give it some time.

Evaluate the situation for as long as you need to, then respond. A reaction is not always necessary.

2| Lessen your distractions

This one's a tricky one.

I was going to say cut out all of your distractions, but let's be real, some distractions are just a part of life and can't be avoided. Mommy life, anyone?

Instead, let's do a fun little exercise, shall we?

Identify all of your key distractions and try to lessen any of them that you have control over.

If there's anything in particular that doesn't add value to your life, go ahead and ditch that mother.

One of the distractions that I had and made a decision to eliminate was Facebook.

Anytime I would get off of Facebook, I would always think, did I just waste 2 hours of my life just now? 

I would feel horrible, not only because I wasted valuable time, but I unwillingly became a part of negativity or drama on a daily basis.

So, that habit had to go.

Distractions could be people, places, things, etc.

3| Be mindful of what you allow

Sometimes the very things that we allow into our lives are the very things that drown us and keep us down.

Learn to be selective about what you allow into your life. It could be something small, but things grow roots.

Everything drains our time in one way or the other, so let it be something worthwhile.

Keep an eye out on everything that comes into your life - be it opportunities, people, or things.

Every cause has an effect, so if it's not something that will add value to your life (as stated earlier) identify it, and don't allow it. Preventing hurt or disappointment from happening down the road is so worth it.

Filter through things before you allow it to take up your time, energy, and attention. You'll need all of that for the more important things.

Let your yes be yes and your no be no, and only say yes to those things that you feel are worthwhile. So many times we say yes to things that don't serve us well or that we don't really want to do.

Don't be afraid to say no in order to say yes to what really matters.

5| Be authentic to you

Focus on your own stuff.

So many times we are losing our focus because we are taking our attention off of our own path and staring too hard at someone else's.

We need to pull the plug of comparison and realize that the answers are within us.

Focus on what you do best. Focus on your strengths.

I came across a post on Instagram one day by fellow boss babe, Promise Tangeman, that stuck with me.

She said, "Don't waste your time trying to 'find' your style. The truth is you already have it. You may just need to create more in order to see it."

I think this is so true.

We need to focus on creating from our unique space and see where it takes us.

Staying focused is so important in being a creative. You need to protect your space because outside influences can unknowingly interfere with your authenticity.

You want to be true to you, and that takes looking inward and being mindful of distractions that could interfere with that on a daily basis.

6| Know what you want

What are your priorities? What's important to you?

These questions will help you focus better.

When you know what you want and where you want to be, you will have a clearer vision of what you need to do to get there. When you know what's at the top of your list, you'll be able to breeze through all of these steps with ease.

It's amazing what we'll do for what we want.

If you have made a decision that you don't want negativity in your life, you'll steer clear from it.

Making clear and conscious choices toward what you want is a definite way to get closer to your goals and to achieving them.

Setting priorities is so important especially when there are so many things that are pulling for our attention on a daily basis.

When you know what you want, you'll be able to communicate that to the world, and it will come back to you.

If you put out love and encouragement, guess what? That's exactly what you'll be associated with and that's what you'll attract.

7| Identify your why

There's something so life-changing in knowing exactly why you are doing things in the first place.

Start with the basics.

Why do you wake up in the morning? Why do you go to work? Why do you want a better life for your family?

Once you begin to answer these things, your life will take on a deeper meaning and you'll be so motivated to wake up every day.

There's nothing like being on a path with no direction. We need to be headed somewhere in order to feel driven.

If you don't know where you're going or why you're doing it, you'll be headed no where fast.

Be inspired by your "why" and let it be that constant inspiration for you.

8| Celebrate small victories

Take the time, even if but for a moment, to celebrate those small victories of yours.

We need to be our best cheerleaders!

Sometimes days turn into months and months turn into years, and we forget to stop and enjoy where we are today.

There's a lot that needed to happen for you to reach the point that you are at now, so be proud of it.

It will motivate you to keep pressing forward and to not give up. 

9| Don't dig up in doubt what you planted in faith

Let's face it, some days are not the best, and some days you may question if what you're focusing your energy on is even worth the sleepless nights, stress, and uncertainty.

But, stop for a minute and know one thing: There was a moment in time where you made a decision.

You put your heart out and risked everything for it. You knew that you'd have to muster up the courage to execute it.

For that very reason, you demonstrated great faith, and it's for that exact same reason that you can't give up no matter how difficult things get. 

10| Do it with all your heart, or not at all

I wanted my final tip to just encourage you to not be too hard on yourself.

I know how difficult things can get sometimes, and the pressure to perform and be amazing is overwhelming to say the least.

Give yourself the permission to take a break when you feel you need it.

Don't worry, things will not fall apart. People can wait. Demands can chill.

You need to focus on yourself, your happiness, and if you need to refresh your perspective or just need a little breather, do it.

It's better to do things with all of you instead of putting out something that's not from your heart or that is forced.

Allow yourself to be exactly as you are in all seasons of life.

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If you made it to the end of this post, you are a true rockstar! I do hope that this was helpful for you and that it truly provides some actionable steps that you can take to get more focused + stay positive.

If you need more inspiration on the daily, I post every day on Instagram + I keep you motivated and accountable to those dreams of yours! I'm here for you, and I am rooting for you every step of the way!  

Do you have any tips on how you stay focused + positive? Please share with all of us in the comments below!  

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Meet Chelsea Vaughn, my featured artist and boss babe for this week's Wallpaper Wednesdays! If you're drawn to a calming, cool-toned, and white color palette with a sprinkle of watercolor and hand lettering - you may just end up like me and not be able to get enough of her work. Who am I to not invite her to create free wallpapers and to share her story? You know I just had to introduce you to her!

Chelsea is the founder and owner of Ten Acre Paper Co. - a creative paper goods business focused on the art of watercolor and hand lettered designs. One of the first words that come to mind when I think of her work is clean. Her work truly stands out on its own without any distraction - and when viewed together as a whole, forms a cohesive brand that is so tranquil and calming. Okay, so let me just show you some of her work so, you too, can be amazed!

Didn't it just woo you just now? Scrolling through her Instagram feed, you will be delighted with quotes like the one above in her signature hand lettered style along with beautiful imagery that makes you want to keep scrolling. Recently, I've noticed that she's been adding a few new things to her shop: watercolor states and new wedding suites, which you can take a peek at below. In her Etsy shop, you'll also find a collection of art prints, cards, and stationary. She's been getting busy since she launched her shop in June of this year (2016) and has already created quite an impressive selection to choose from.

Can you see how it's totally not hard to fall in love with her work? It speaks for itself. I have been over here rooting for Chelsea ever since I discovered her because I absolutely love what she does and how true to her style she is. I can't wait to see what she comes up with as time goes on, but a little birdie did tell me that she'll be coming out with some new bookmarks and Christmas pattern cards soon, so that's something to look out for! 

Let's get to know Chelsea even better and be inspired by her journey so far as a creative entrepreneur. Then, scroll to the bottom of this post to see + download all of the lovely free Fall + Thanksgiving wallpapers that she designed for you all to enjoy!

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Q & A

chelsea vaughn

ten acre paper co.

Holly Springs, North Carolina

website | etsy | instagram | facebook

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WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST TURNING POINT IN YOUR LIFE THAT MADE YOU WANT TO PURSUE YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

I think the biggest turning point was realizing that it was actually something I could do! I feel like there is always a fear behind doing something on your own, without complete knowledge of the whole process, but you learn as you go and it has been a great experience for me so far. // “Great people do things before they’re ready” - Amy Poehler

HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU MADE THAT DECISION?

It was so great and pretty freeing, actually. Obviously there was a lot of work ahead, but when you do something that you have so much passion and drive for, the work is pretty enjoyable :) - And it was so exciting to start on something this big from scratch and be the one in charge its whole creation - so many possibilities!

WHAT INSPIRED AND MOTIVATED YOU TO FOLLOW THROUGH WITH YOUR DECISION?  

Reassurance and support from my husband, my family and other entrepreneurial creatives - then confirming with myself and being confident that I could do it! I also listened/watched a good amount of free webinars and videos by other creatives that were packed with super helpful and interesting information and they really inspired me to stay confident about this big decision!

WHAT WERE THE FIRST STEPS YOU TOOK TO GET THE BALL ROLLING?

I made a list of everything I could think of that needed to be done before launching and went step-by-step until the end! I did a lot of research, talked to a friend who is a great CPA, thought of a name (which took so long! I also blogged a little about this process), gathered inspiration, created a cohesive brand for TAPC and started brainstorming + creating my first products!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS AND WHY YOU CHOSE TO PURSUE THAT PARTICULAR BUSINESS.

Ten Acre Paper Co. launched in June, 2016 with a passion for watercolor and hand lettered design. Beginning with a focus solely on greeting cards and art prints, TAPC has already expanded to include stationery, wedding suites and custom paper goods! Ten Acre Paper Co. is all about finding space for the meaningful things in life and I hope my designs help remind you to do so.

I chose to pursue a creative paper goods business mainly because of my love for tangible art. I love being able to hold an art print or receive a greeting card in the mail from a friend. I am a full-time graphic designer by day and am facing a computer screen a good bit, so this was a great way for me to explore my hobby and expand my creativity by working with my hands.

WHAT TYPES OF CHALLENGES HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED SO FAR AND HOW ARE YOU OVERCOMING THEM?

A big challenge for me is trying not to over do it by doing too many things at once! You’ll see that I listed the quote I live by as “you can do anything, but not everything” - and it’s something I struggle with all the time! I have so many ideas running around in my head and sometimes it’s hard to figure out which to really pursue and prioritize. I also want to be as productive as possible and do things that are best for my business, so the decision to do one thing over another is sometimes daunting!

WHICH PRINCIPLES AND VALUES HAVE YOU BASED YOUR BUSINESS UPON AND HOW DO YOU HOPE TO CARRY THAT THROUGH TO YOUR CUSTOMERS?

As I mentioned briefly above, Ten Acre Paper Co. is all about finding space for the meaningful things in life. Other principles and values that build up TAPC are being bold, brave, kind and mindful. I try to not only portray these principles and values in my art work, but also incorporate them into my own life. I believe that living out the things you promote is one of the best ways to carry it through to others.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT HAVING YOUR OWN BUSINESS AND BEING YOUR OWN BOSS? 

I’ve come to really love having my own business and being my own boss because of the amazing freedom. I grew up as an only child and have always been pretty independent, so I think that characteristic funnels well into doing this on my own and staying motivated. I also generally have a tough time making big decisions, but this position has really pushed me to learn to think quickly and act upon things that need fast turnaround. I also love that I am involved in all aspects of running my small business - from gathering supplies, keeping track of accounting info, communicating with clients and setting up collaborations with other creatives to, of course, creating the artwork. I’m always learning something new!

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO ACCOMPLISH AND WHERE WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE YOURSELF AND YOUR BUSINESS IN 5 YEARS?

In 5 years, I’d love to be a well-known paper company that offers many more products and variations of paper goods that really exemplify the principles and values of the Ten Acre Paper Co. brand. I can’t wait to grow personally as well as creatively and really hone my watercolor and lettering skills - maybe even branch out and explore other techniques! I also hope to build connections and friendships + collaborate with many, many more creatives.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE WHO IS CONSIDERING STARTING THEIR OWN BUSINESS? 

Four things-

1. You can totally do it.

2. Have patience and don’t feel discouraged about taking small steps.

3. Reach out to other creatives and connect to those within your local community.

4. Build your business around principles and values that keep you positive and motivated.

I AM ...

excited for the future.

I BELIEVE ...

in working hard for your dreams and doing whatever it takes. It doesn’t come easy, you’ve gotta earn it!

I LOVE …

my friends and family, comfy jeans and striped t-shirts, decorating my home, connecting with other creatives, the fall season and everything that comes with it, coffee, netflix, mountain views, black and white photographs, laughing endlessly with my husband and staying up late!

MY GREATEST FEAR IS …

taking something for granted and not realizing it until it’s too late.

MY GREATEST LESSON IN LIFE SO FAR IS …

things happen and sometimes you’ve just got to say “c’est la vie!” ( aka: “that’s life!” )

I AM PROUD OF ...

my continual motivation and drive for this company.

MY GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT IS ...

marrying my husband, Spencer.

A QUOTE I LIVE BY IS ...

“you can do anything, but not everything” - David Allen

MY IDEA OF A PERFECT DAY IS ...

open-ended watercolor at home in the morning light with coffee and a candle, a walk in the park with my husband (+ our future dog :)), an afternoon nap + snuggles with my cat Ferris, dinner out at a cozy/casual/southern-style restaurant and then champagne and cake back at home with board games and Netflix.

MY DREAM IS ...

to leave a positive impact on the world in more ways than one.

I WILL ...

never stop trying to improve.

I love Chelsea's story! The idea of starting a business from scratch is overwhelming to say the least, but once you make up your mind, there is nothing that can stop you from making it happen. An idea may sprout in the mind, but in order for it to grow, you have to be the one to bring it to life. Chelsea is the perfect example of someone who had an idea and who did not let the fear of the unknown stop her from figuring things out and paving her own path. She had a plan, stuck to it, and the most important part - she was confident. Her turning point was that she knew she could do it! It's amazing to think that she just started this journey four months ago. Look at what she has built thus far, and she's only getting started.

Chelsea's story is so encouraging, isn't it! Realize that you too, are capable of walking out your dreams and are able to create something amazing from scratch. You don't need to know everything, you just need to be willing to take the first step and learn along the way. There's no better time than now to take your ideas and make them a reality. Move your ideas from the stages of dreaming to doing, and you will see incredible things happen just as Chelsea has. Have confidence in yourself and trust in the process that you must go through to get to where you want to be.

Cheers to Chelsea, another inspiring boss babe who touches us not only with her story, but with her beautiful work!

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“Oolala! Loving these FREE wallpapers!
Get yours here.”

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Thank you so much for stopping by and sticking around until the end of this post. Isn't Chelsea amazing! Please do me a favor and show her some love at the links provided above, and let her know that I sent you (to stalk her, of course). There are tons more free wallpapers available at the button below, so click it and be happy because free stuff is always a good idea! To stay in the know of all current happenings, you can follow me along on Instagram ( @hlovelyliving ) for exclusive content that I only share there. If you tag me on your photos of you using your wallpapers, I'd love that so much because that means that you're enjoying them, and that means I'll keep them coming!

What inspires you about Chelsea's story? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Disclosure: All designs are original and for personal use. Artists retain rights to all designs and they may not be copied or reproduced in any form or likeness. I love when you share, but please link back to the original post. Enjoy!

Amy Jade Lore of Amy Jade Designs and Beautycounter is one busy woman. As if one side hustle wasn't enough, she decided to take on the world with two - while still managing a full-time job. I think we can all agree that having a full-time job is demanding in and of itself. Just how she manages to juggle the demands of all three is beyond me. Go Amy!

Based out of Montreal, Canada, Amy is a graphic designer and calligrapher and founded Amy Jade Designs, where she combines her two creative talents to design lovely commissioned pieces. Her passion soon led her to Beautycounter, a company whose goal is to get safer personal care products into the hands of everyone. As a Senior Consultant at Beautycounter, Amy has found purpose in spreading the mission and purpose of the company and in educating everyone about the benefits of choosing safer personal care products.

Let's get to know Amy a bit more! I asked her a few questions that I really felt would help all of you aspiring boss babes in your personal walk. It helps to get to know other women on a more personal level and to understand that we are all figuring things out one step at a time. I hope you enjoy this!

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Q & A

amy jade lore

Amy Jade Designs and Beautycounter

INSTAGRAM | EMAIL | WEBSITE

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What was the biggest turning point in your life that made you want to pursue your own business?

I’ve always had my freelance Graphic Design and now Calligraphy business on the side of my 9-5 day job. When I discovered Beautycounter and began researching their company’s mission of getting safer beauty products out to the public and creating awareness, I knew this was something I wanted to be a part of. I was sent the “We deserve better” video, which talks about the lack of regulations in the beauty industry, and I was so shocked by the statistics and immediately wanted to help share this message with friends and family.

How did you feel when you made that decision?

I was a little nervous about the new challenges it would bring, but mostly extremely excited for the future.

What inspired and motivated you to follow through with your decision?  

Being my own boss has always been something I’ve wanted to do. I enjoy the flexibility but even more I enjoy being a part of something that matters. When I introduce someone to a Beautcounter product, like the Charcoal Cleansing Bar, and it helps clear up a skin issue that they have been struggling with for years, I find it extremely fulfilling and it makes me want to continue this journey.

What were the first steps you took to get the ball rolling?

One of the things that made the transition of joining Beautycounter as an independent consultant easy is all the training and information available. As a consultant, I am connected to a mentor, who basically has guided me through the initial process and answered any questions that I have. The company also has an influx of “how to” materials that really walks you through the steps of creating a successful business and being a successful independent consultant.

Tell us about your business and why you chose to pursue that particular business.

Unfortunately like many people, a lot of my friends and family have health issues. All four of my grandparents have had cancer, and one thing I hear constantly is that, had they known at a younger age that the things they were doing when they were younger were not good for them, they would have avoided it. Now we have so much information at our fingertips about making safer choices, so the idea of being able to spread this knowledge has definitely given my decision to enter this business a purpose.

What types of challenges have you experienced so far and how are you overcoming them?

I’ve always been a little bit of an introvert. The idea of trying to market myself as an artist and reaching out to new contacts, at first, was daunting. However, there are so many tools available to overcome these fears. I find that social media, such as Instagram and Facebook, has been wonderful to really connect with others and to be a part of a strong community. Although graphic design is a completely different field than the beauty industry, I still find so many similarities since, in both realms, I am working for myself, so I am able to transfer the skills I learned in each.

Which principles and values have you based your business upon and how do you hope to carry that through to your customers?

Beautycounter has been the perfect company for me to get involved with since they have such a strong mission of getting safer products out to people and educating them on the importance of knowing what is going onto theirs and their loved one's skin. Each day I’m able to reach out to a wider audience to share these values, and knowing I am confident in the product and mission makes it that much easier to accomplish. 

What do you love about having your own business and being your own boss? 

I love being able to know that the hours I am putting in are for myself and that I can see the results directly and know that it pays off.

What would you like to accomplish and where would you like to see yourself and your business in 5 years?

I would love to continue with what I am doing now but grow both my businesses. My main goal is to reach as many people as possible and get safer products into everyone’s home.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering starting their own business? 

I would definitely encourage it! I personally started out both as side jobs and would suggest going that route. Take the time to create a name for yourself and really establish relationships with potential clients. At one point you will see a shift and realize that you are getting more clients and work and that you can pursue that as a full-time career. It’s definitely time-consuming, there will be a lot of late nights, and you’ll hear “no” often, but in the end, you’ll be at a job that you really enjoy.

I am ...

not afraid to speak my mind.

I believe ...

in making time for friends and family.

I love …

Coffee - slightly addicted. :)

My greatest fear is …

taking on too much and burning out.

My greatest lesson in life so far is …

to create a balance between work life and personal life in order to achieve happiness and success.

I am proud of ...

anyone that pursues their dreams.

My greatest accomplishment is ...

taking the leap of establishing my own business.

A quote I live by is ...

“Life begins at the end of your comfort zone” - Neale Donald Walsch

My idea of a perfect day is ...

a relaxing day at the beach with friends.

My dream is ...

to be happy and not have any regrets.

I will ...

never stop challenging myself.

Amy serves as an inspiration to those of you who have a career, yet are feeling pulled toward stepping outside of that. Not only is it possible to pursue your dreams while managing a full-time job, it is oftentimes necessary until you have built something substantial enough to pull the weight that your full-time job only could. It can be overwhelming just thinking about how you could possibly build a business while juggling a full-time job, but if you have the drive and determination to do it, there's no limit to your potential.

No matter what obstacles you may face, including having to support yourself and your family while pursuing your dreams, small steps are bigger than no step at all. So, if you have a dream that you are wanting to pursue, take it from Amy to go out there and do it! It will be a challenge, but it will be so worth it.

To learn more about Beautycounter and how you, too, can get your hands on safer personal care products, or if you are interested in being a part of the company's mission, you can get in touch with Amy, and she will be happy to help. 

This month, Beautycounter launched their Holiday Gift Sets, and they are gorgeous! Just take a look down below for some snapshots of some of them. I'm all about companies that are a part of the clean beauty movement and who are holding themselves to a higher standard, so this is seriously stuff that I love to show my support for. I've also tried a few of their products from their skincare line, and I really enjoyed them.

To show my support for Amy - for a limited time (from now until November 19) - I will be hosting a Beautycounter social, which is basically just a fun way to shop together (virtually). Every purchase is an automatic entry into our giveaway, where you could win a Luminous Nudes Gift Set - valued at $75! How amazing is that - I'm so thankful that Amy is able to do this. There is also a 60-day money back guarantee on all orders. I hope you join me! You can shop directly at the button below. 

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I hope you enjoyed this post and gained inspiration from Amy's story. There will be more inspiring stories to come as I feature other women who are taking charge of their dreams and their future. Until then, have an amazing week and stay beautiful babes!

Are you an aspiring boss babe with big dreams? I'd love to know how I can help you get there. Let's chat in the comments below!

If you have been following me along on Instagram, you'll probably already know that I love me some THAI TEA! I first discovered my love for this yummy drink back home on Guam where I used to have it at my favorite local Thai restaurants - Ban Thai and Chaopraya Thai Cuisine. I am obsessed with Thai food, so I've learned to make many Thai dishes while away from home. I love to make Panang Curry, Tom Yum Kung (hot and sour shrimp soup), Tom Kha Gai (chicken coconut soup), and Pad Thai (stir-fried noodles). As you can tell, Thai food has my heart (and tummy).

Naturally, Thai tea is also on the menu because, who says I can only have Thai tea once in a blue moon! Once I learned just how easy it was to make this creamy and delicious slice of heaven at home, my life was made. Needless to say, I've been hooked ever since! Now, whenever the craving calls (which is quite often), I just whip some up in no time and have my fix without every having to set foot into a Thai restaurant. Let me teach you just how simple it is to make!

For the record, homemade Thai tea tastes nothing like the can or jar variety you see in stores. It tastes a zillion time better. Not even kidding about the zillion part! As they always say, fresh is best! My favorite part about making Thai tea is mixing it. I feel like an artist every time I stir the tea in with the cream. It's one of those satisfying moments where my eyes light up and I'm debating whether I'd rather stare at it or drink it. Of course, that doesn't last too long. Drinking it sounds waaaaaay better! Anyway - as if you needed any more convincing from me that you need to make this delicious concoction! Let's get into the recipe, shall we!

To make this deliciously legal drink, you'll need Thai tea mix, which I was able to find in my local Asian store in Oklahoma City, Super Cao Nguyen. It is also available online, which may be a much easier option for you. Here's the Thai tea mix that I use. You'll also need the basics: sugar, water, ice, and half and half. I prefer not to use sweetened condensed milk or evaporated milk for my Thai tea, but if you'd like to go the traditional route, that's totally up to you! I also love to use almond milk, but I've discovered that half and half tastes way better.  

So, what you'll need to do first is add 2 cups of water to a small saucepan and bring it to a rolling boil. Since this is a loose leaf tea, you'll need to use a strainer. I poured the boiling water into my glass jar (that has a strainer lid) and then added in 2 tablespoons of the loose leaf tea. I let it steep for 3 minutes or until it develops a deep color. I take a separate jar and pour the strained Thai tea into it so that the tea doesn't continue to steep. Now I add 5 or 6 tablespoons of sugar, which quickly dissolves since the tea is still hot. After this, it is preferable to let the tea cool first before you use it, but since I am impatient, I always skip this step.

Now, for the fun part! Fill your cup full of ice, then pour in 1/2 a cup of the Thai tea. Next, pour in 1/4 cup of the half and half. The ice will water it down a bit, so that's why we added a lot of sugar to the tea so it balances out. Stir stir stir, and enjoy to your heart's content! Take the leftover Thai tea that you made earlier and store it in the refrigerator for when you're feeling like having a quick fix. It will be enough to serve you 2 more drinks! 

Creamy Thai Tea Recipe

Author: Stina Abion | Hello Lovely Living

Published October 18, 2016

Servings: 3 servings

Prep: 5 mins

Cook: 5 mins

Total time: 10 mins

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp Thai tea mix
• 2 cups water
• 5-6 Tbsp sugar
• 1-2 cups ice
• 1/4 cup half and half

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, bring water to a rolling boil. Pour water over thai tea mix and steep for 3 minutes.
2. Strain and pour the tea into a separate jar, then add the sugar. Mix well until dissolved.
3. Fill your serving cup with ice, then pour in 1/2 cup of thai tea, then 1/4 cup of half and half. Stir and enjoy! Save remaining tea for later. Makes 2 more servings.

Notes

• You can also substitute the half and half for your milk of choice, or for the traditional version, condesnsed milk and evaporated milk.
• I use organic half and half and organic raw sugar for the best quality and taste.

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I hope you enjoyed this recipe! Be prepared to get addicted to it if and when you try it! It's one of those things that went from Thai Tea Tuesday to Thai Tea Every day for me. 

Will you be trying out this recipe? If you do, I'd love to see your photos! Go on, tag me in your photos on Instagram using #hellolovelyliving and @hellolovelyliving so I can get all heart eyes on your photos + share them so others can do the same! 

Disclusure: Affiliate links are used in this post.

It just occurred to me how powerful what I'm about to say could be in someone's life. I just had an "aha" moment just a few minutes ago, and I knew I had to put this out there because I realized just how very true what I'm about to say has been in my life - all my life - and how impactful this could be to someone.

You know that feeling when you want something so bad, you feel that you have to force it into your life? You do everything in your power to make it happen, only to be met with resistance?  

There is nothing, and I am going to say this again - NOTHING - that can separate you from what is already yours.  

Let that sink in.  

In essence, you can not screw up what is right for you. You just can't. That job. That relationship. That dream. It does not matter what it is!  

So, if you're like me - impatient. Stop that. Stop that right now!

It is just now occurring to me just how impatient I am and how controlling I can be at times. I want things when I want it and how I want it - which tends to be immediately.

Of course, there is an opposite side to me that can be patient, but in a long-term sense. I can be patient when I have already committed to something that I know and understand is going to take time.

See, there is a difference. 

When you want something immediately, it is because your mind is saying that you have to have it now or never. On the flip side, if you know that you can't get it immediately and that it will take time, your brain will flip a different switch that says, "Okay, I either need to commit to seeing this through or it's time to throw in the towel. This is just not for me." 

I know that there are a lot of us out there that try so hard to force something that is just not right for us. Time, my friends - things take time. Nothing is ever going to happen immediately which is of high value - and the only way to receive the rewarding things in life is to be patient.

So, whether you are stuck in a place where you are just not getting the results you want or you just can't seem to ever grab a hold of the things you want, know this: There is a process, and it is happening as we speak.

That process needs to happen in order for you to get what you want. Let things develop in their own timing. Let things grow without rushing it to bloom. Enjoy the present season you are in because it will not last. Just because you do not see the physical proof of things working in your favor does not mean it isn't happening. 

There is a something beautiful about mystery. If we always got exactly what we wanted, when we wanted it, we wouldn't get to enjoy what happened along the way. We wouldn't get to experience the highs, the lows, the joy, and the pain of it all. 

Another amazing thing is that we wouldn't get to appreciate what we have unless we have already grown into the person ready for that particular event to happen. We need to grow into the person we need to be. We can't just all-of-a-sudden arrive when it's not our time.

So, what is it that you want so bad? What is it that you are forcing to happen? What is it that you are impatient about? Now is the moment to just stop worrying about when it's going to happen. Focus on letting things happen in their own timing. Do exactly what you need to do to grow toward what you want, and it will happen. It will happen, and you won't know what you did because that's exactly it; You didn't need to do anything spectacular or do cartwheels and backflips to get it. It happened, naturally.  

The best things in life happen naturally, unexpected. When's the last time you saw a flower that needed a pep talk to bloom? Never. Or a tree that had to do 1,000 pushups to grow tall? Okay, now I'm Just trying to make you laugh, but you get the point, right!

So, don't be so hard on yourself anymore, okay? You deserve nothing but THE best in life, and you will get it because there's nothing that will keep you from what's already yours. Not the mistakes you've made, the things you did or didn't do.

When something does not happen the way you expect it or want it to - you should be happy. Why? Because that means that you are getting closer to something that is right for you. You're eliminating all of the other options, and that is a good thing. 

Understand that the best things in life do take time, and guess what? God's timing is perfect. 

I want the best for you! Enjoy the journey getting to the things you want. That's the best part after all.

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So, what is it that you want in life that you are now willing to be patient for? I'd love to hear about it in the comments below.

Design-obsessed moms. I know you're out there! So, what to do when your child's room is more like an eye-sore rather than a room you can be proud of in your home?

And what if you don't want to spend a complete FORTUNE getting your kid's room looking Instagram-worthy?

Or what if you've already created the most epic space for your kids and are looking for more modern furniture ideas? 

Why yes, of course. I can help you with that!

Read on in my latest Mode story for modern kid-friendly furniture DIY projects that won't break the bank - giving you that sigh of relief that you can still pull off that look for less for your littles. Now say that ten times. Haha. 

Check out Modern DIY Kids' Furniture for Design-Obsessed Moms

by Stina Abion at Mode

Are you a design-obsessed mom? What is the one thing that you are most annoyed by when it comes to decorating your children's room(s)? I'd love to hear about it in the comments below!

Wallpaper Wednesdays is now back in session, and this week we are getting inspired by one of the most genuinely sweetest people you'll have a chance to come across online - Mallory Overton of Castle Paper Co. I was instantly drawn to her work because her calligraphy style is so unique, and scrolling through her images immediately made me feel inspired and uplifted. 

Reading through her captions, you start to get a sense of her personality - she's authentic, down-to-earth, and the type that you'd want to be BFFs with! You can see it in her writing that she puts a ton of heart into her work and it is truly a reflection of who she is on the inside.

Taking a look through her work, she creates beautiful wedding stationery, place cards, invitations, and prints (to name a few) and they are all sophisticated with a touch of playful whimsy. I just love them ALL! Her work has been featured on Style Me Pretty, and rightfully so because she's got major skills.

If you ever find yourself in search for a calligrapher, Mallory's your girl. Head to her site and tell her what you need. Whether it be for a wedding, event, business, or even for your home - she can design something that you will be absolutely head over heals for. And since she's one of the most down-to-earth people you will ever meet, the process will be even that much more fun and stress-free, I'm sure. She also does copy editing. What can I say, the girl knows her stuff!

If you're the type that could stare at calligraphy for hours, do yourself a favor and follow Mallory on Instagram because she posts the prettiest photos of her life and work and makes everything look so completely effortless. I couldn't include all of her pretty calligraphy photos if I tried - so go ahead and see for yourself. 

Wrapping it up, I asked Mallory to answer a few questions for us - so enjoy - and at the end of the post download her free wallpapers that she totally made for all of you. 

Q & A | Mallory Overton - Castle Paper Co.

DID YOU ALWAYS HAVE A PASSION FOR ART AND WHEN DID YOU START PURSUING IT?

I have always had a passion for beauty, and I’ve always had a strong sense for the way things look and feel + can observe that from an early age.  I do consider writing to be an artform, and I started pursuing that in high school.  I only started to pursue art as an endeavor about two years ago, so that piece is pretty new for me!  I like it, though.

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION?

Outside.  I love gardens.  They bring out my inner eighty-year old.  I get a lot of thinking done as I walk around; I love walking through my neighborhood to start the day.  I’m also really inspired by museums + libraries, which feels a little cliche but it’s true.  Museums because they make me feel small but in a good way, and remind me of the human spirit + how great it is to be a member of a group of creatures that can’t help but to create.  Libraries for a similar reason, but with the added layer of story.  Books carry so much nostalgia for me, as I was a much better reader as a child.  I still love the idea of reading but find my attention so divided with things like, well, Instagram.   

WHAT MEDIUMS DO YOU USE?

Paper :)  does that count?  I have always loved + collected paper.  I use a lot of markers, Tombows are my fave for brush markers, and Le Pen for felt-tip.  I also use watercolor and acrylic ink for calligraphy and for painting.  My new thing is to make tapestries out of linen that I can write on, so fabric is being added ot the list!

IN THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF ART?

Okay, well whimsical would be one word.  And sophisticated (sometimes).  And then also intentional, because it’s both how I approach creating and how I try to use what I create.

DO YOU LISTEN TO MUSIC WHILE CREATING ART? IF SO, WHAT’S ON YOUR PLAYLIST?

Yes, that or a podcast.  But usually music while I’m creating -- right now, I have Spotify’s 70s Smash Hits playlist on repeat.  But I mean, I also listen to Bieber.  I’m all over the place.  It has everything to do with my mood.

DESCRIBE YOUR MOST TREASURED ART PIECE TO DATE - ONE THAT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF.

A large-format piece hanging in my bathroom.  Usually the things I make I grow tired of from spending so much time with them, or I see the imperfections + that prevents me from enjoying the finished product for what it is.  But this piece that I love I wrote because the words moved me so much + I wasn’t worrying about how it looked, I was just writing it because I wanted to.  I often think that I’ll probably have it forever -- it’s a C.S. Lewis quote about God’s love for us, and I love to read it every day.   

NAME ONE ARTIST YOU ADMIRE.

Oh, man.  Just one?!!  Well, I am really inspired by Ali Nelson, of Ali Makes Things.  The way she combines words + her story feels very close to my own heart!  I am always interested to see what she is putting out there.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO EMERGING ARTISTS?

Don’t worry about what skills, tools, expertise, experience or vision you don’t have.  Use what you do have, right now.  If you are in this for the long term, you WILL have days where it feels like you’re going nowhere.  We all do, so try not to get discouraged.  Try instead to zoom out and ask yourself what you can do today that will bring you closer to your long-term goal--whether it’s based on a month, year, or lifetime of work.   

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?

Honestly, as a creative I imagine myself to be capable of way more things that I probably am, but I could see myself getting back into flowers, and I often dream of having a co-working/event space where a couple of my friends and I could work and plan fun events together + use our space to give to people!  I have some dreams for it, but we’ll see what happens :)  

IF YOU COULD BE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW, WHERE WOULD YOU WANT TO BE?

The BEACH!

Thanks for stopping by! For wallpaper updates, sign up for my newsletter by clicking the button below. Follow me, @hlovelyliving on Instagram, and search #cheekyliving to see when new designs are up. Tag me using your wallpapers so I can feature your photo!

Which designs and artists would you like to see next? Share with me in the comments below! 

Disclosure: All designs are original and for personal use. Artists retain rights to all designs and they may not be copied or reproduced in any form or likeness. We love when you share, but please link back to the original post. Enjoy!

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free resources, inspiration, profilesStina XAugust 17, 2016

Ok. I'm kindaaa obsessed with Instagram. AGAIN. Just when I was starting to move away from the platform, they pull me in with their new feature. Have you seen it yet? Instagram Stories. It's like Snapchat, but without the fun filters, but that's okay. In time, I'm sure they will come out with something that's as equally addicting as Snapchat. I just love how everything is on one platform now because I just can't keep up with it all. I sucked majorly at Snapchat, so I'm glad that this all happened. I also like how I am able to post things in my stories that don't need to stay on my wall because I can get pretty anal about the look and feel of my feed. In that sense, I am so loving it and plan to share a little more on there that is more candid and hopefully you can get to know me a lot better and get a better feel of the chick behind the screen. 

With all that said, I wanted to start doing a weekly roundup of my week in photos. Since I started Hello Lovely Living, I have developed a love for photography, particularly nature, styled photos, still life photography, and flat lays. I want to continue to explore where this will take me because I just love doing it, and it really gets me excited to create - be it  through taking photos, creating DIY projects, painting, writing, and the list goes on. I take photos of it all! All the photos you see here on Hello Lovely Living and on any of my social media channels were taken by me unless I specifically tag the source - then all credit goes to that person. I am all about sharing original content, so I do my best to create my own stuff. As an artist, I think creative control goes hand-in-hand, so I understand how it feels to feel proud of the things I create. It's liberating and exhilarating.

Anyway, before I go into a totally different tangent, I just thought I'd share that all with you guys. I hope you find inspiration in these images and that you get more of a glimpse into my world.  

Without further ado, last week's recap in photos. 

August 1-8 | 2016

Hello Lovely Travel | Destin, Florida

Hello Lovely Travel | Hilton Anatole | Dallas, TX

Hello Lovely Plant Lady | Succulent Cuttings

Hello Lovely Inspo

Hello Lovely Travel | Hafer Park | Edmond, OK

Hello Lovely Living | Raw Apple Cider Vinegar, ACV Detox Drink, Blackstrap Molasses, Doterra Solace

Hello Lovely Travel | Bluff Creek Park | Oklahoma City, OK

Hello Lovely Plant Lady | Succulent Cuttings

Hello Lovely Taste | Thai Tea - Thai Delight - Edmond, OK

Hello Lovely Living | Abstracts

Hello Lovely Travel | Destin, FL

Hello Lovely Home | Eucalyptus Arrangement

So, did you enjoy perusing through my photos like a stalker? Kidding! I'm allowed to joke once in a while, right?! I may not be good at it, but I try! Hahaha.

I definitely enjoyed putting this together because it gives me a mental recap of my life in a way. Sometimes life can pass by so quickly, so it's nice to take a minute to reflect on the more valuable things in life like memories. It's so important to be grateful for every single thing, and I am certain this was just that exercise I needed. 

If you liked what you saw and want to stalk me some more *wink wink*, you can see the rest of my photos on Instagram and give me a follow. There, you can also take a look at my original captions, and hopefully they will inspire you in some way and give you the occasional giggle. Hope to see you there!

So, tell me, which social media platform do you prefer? I'd love to hear what you think in the comments below!

Perfectionism. It's something that I've struggled with for all of my life, and I think it's something that a lot of us deal with in general. Is it a form of anxiety? I don't know, but it has caused a lot of anxiety in me over the years. I decided to talk about this topic for those of you who have the same struggle and who are trying to overcome it. I don't think I've necessarily overcome it, but I am miles ahead of where I was before, so that's a good sign! Maybe I can offer some insight that can help you to see perfectionism for what it is and then redefine the way you see it and break free from its grip on your life. 

I want to speak specifically to those of you who have serious dreams and aspirations and who have plans to do big things, yet have been held back in one way or the other by feelings of perfectionism. I know how it feels because that was (and at times, is) me. One thing that I can tell you from experience that will be the most important statement in this post is that perfectionism comes with a cost.

The cost?

Time. 

The reason why I say that the cost of perfection is time is because the more time you spend on visualizing the perfect plan or the perfect execution, the further and further away you get from actually achieving your goals. I'm not saying that planning things out is bad, I'm talking about reciting everything in your head a zillion times over until you finally feel that everything is perfect - which is rarely ever. Perfection is unattainable, so it is an unhealthy cycle to be in. 

So, what is the biggest threat to perfectionism and the solution to overcoming it?

Action.

When you decide to act upon your dreams rather than waiting for the perfect conditions, you not only punch perfectionism in the face (take that perfectionism!), but you build your confidence. I really believe that perfectionism is a form of insecurity because we feel as if we have to live up to certain standards - unattainable ones - and since it is created by us for us, we keep creating conditions of perfection and that cycle never really ends because it is in the mind. It is also a form of fear because what we fear is not having control over things, so we do everything in our power to control the conditions until we feel that they are ideal enough. 

One thing that I had to really learn is to distinguish perfectionism from being detail-oriented - which I now see are two very separate things. I've always been both, so knowing that being detail-oriented is a very positive trait and holding onto that while learning to let go of perfectionism has really changed the way I go about my life and the way I view things.

If this is something that you would like to work to overcome, in no particular order, here are strategies that I have used in my thinking process that have helped me so much in dealing with perfectionism.

I made this free printable for you (yes you)! Click the button below to download it instantly!

1| Don't overthink things

I tend to do this A-LOT, and I'm a prime example of someone who really can't make a decision to save her life because I tend to be an over-thinker. Overthinking is one of those time-wasters, because while thinking about all of the ins and outs of the good, the bad, and the ugly may cause you to feel a little more secure about your decision in the short-term, it will most likely lead you to many of your insecurities as well. This process will be even longer than you anticipate - we're talking years. You'll most likely come up with reasons why your idea sucks or reasons why you should just not ever do it. Ever. Perfectionism can cause you to convince yourself to believe things that aren't even true - like that you're not good enough, skilled enough, or talented enough. It's pretty overwhelming, so of course your brain will shut down out of pure exhaustion - and give up (which we want to avoid).

2| Make a decision

What is it that you want to do? What is your dream, and how will you get there? First off, making a decision to do it in the first place is your first step to overcoming feelings of perfectionism, which prevents you from ever starting. When you commit to an idea, you block out any other voice that will distract you. Decisions are hard as it is, so ticking this off from the get-go will get you moving forward rather than entertaining that dialogue of perfectionism which states that you must have this, that, and the other sorted out first before you even commit to the idea. Committing is so important because it literally switches your brain from deliberating to the process of action. 

3| Just start

Now that the tough part is over, here comes another step that will be equally hard for the perfectionist. Of course - you have to make sure everything is absolutely perfect before you start, right? Wrong. No matter where you begin, whether you are inexperienced or you are a professional, you will have to start from scratch. The preparation starts now, not at Step 1 - that was the part where you were stuck in your head. Step 3 is where you already have one foot out of the door, and you're saying, "Heeeeello World!" 

4| Follow through

No matter what feelings come up, commit to follow through with what you set out to do. It's easy for you to want to throw in the towel when things aren't turning out the way you had envisioned, but that is exactly what will happen. Things will not turn out perfect. You may even discover that the very thing that you wanted to do just doesn't give you the satisfaction you thought it would - and that is perfectly okay. The sooner you learn, the better, and the clearer things will get. 

5| Have the end goal in sight

As a perfectionist, it's easy to give up on the process if it doesn't appear the way you want it to in the beginning. If you don't see the perfect results, you may start to question yourself and then you may not give your all to see things come to pass. Things take time, and in that, it is very hard to see things perfectly aligned as we envision it. I, myself, always have this idealistic view that can get in the way of reality. There are high expectations that I set for myself, that if I don't live up to them, I feel like I'm doing something wrong, then fear creeps in. It's something that I've had to overcome with motivating myself daily and reframing my expectations.

6| Grace not perfection

It's so easy today to feel the weight of the entire world on your shoulders. There are pressures coming from everywhere to be perfect, so it can feel overwhelming when you feel like you won't ever live up to what is portrayed out there. What I have learned is that my idea of perfection will never be attainable, so I'm just going to go for it and give it my best shot. No matter what the outcome is, as long as I am staying true to myself, that is all that really matters. When you value yourself over ideals of perfection, amazing things start to happen, and you begin to see your dreams realized.

7| Let your hair down

Just be exactly who you are and you will feel no pressure to be perfect. When you realize that you are enough and that you have exactly what it takes to succeed, you will start to enjoy the process more than you ever imagined. You won't need validation from others. You won't let fear guide you - your dreams will. You will begin to see that one dream will lead you to the next.

8| Take it one day at a time 

When we visualize what we want to achieve, we usually have this fantasy in our heads about how we want it to look and how we want it to be done, which is overwhelming in itself. In creating the future you want, taking it one day at a time will get you further than trying to craft the perfect month or year or decade. For example, if you want to create a brand, you may look at other brands for inspiration and feel pressured to look so polished and put together like them. The reality is that it took that brand years to create the brand that you see today. Take it one day at a time and know that every single day you are getting closer to your vision coming full circle. It will take time, but this time it is an investment into your future.  

9| Don't compare yourself to others

It's so easy to think that in order to be successful, you have to learn every single trick of the trade, which means you'll have to read every book, go to every seminar, and watch every motivational speech every recorded just to feel secure. Don't get trapped in the idea that everyone has the answers because you will end up chasing them down instead of chasing your dreams. Getting caught up in what everyone else is doing will take a toll on your individual journey. Instead of doing what you were created to do, you will stunt your growth by getting caught up in other people's journeys. Your journey is going to look different from theirs, but it is not any less effective. Do you and the lessons and results will follow. 

10| Have faith

The process of pursuing your dreams comes with a lot of uncertainty, which can be very difficult to deal with at times. One day you may be having the best day of your life, then the next day you may feel defeated and torn. Realize that it will be a process that will be full of challenges and questions, but with faith, you will know how to get through the tough times and not lose your enthusiasm moving forward. Learn how to shake off your mistakes, learn from your failures, and keep going. You will reach a beautiful place even if the journey getting there wasn't perfect.

I really hope this was helpful and encouraging for all of you seeking to step out into the unknown. The next time you feel like everything has to be perfect before you start something, come back to this list and let it encourage you. You don't need to be perfect, just real. Chase them dreams, girlfriend! And leave perfectionism in the dust.

Psst. Just in case you missed it. Click the button below to instantly download this free printable!

What are your thoughts about perfectionism, and how has it affected your life? I'd love to chat in the comments below! 

via Style Caster

The thought of applying honey and sugar to your face may probably result in you picturing a sticky mess. Since they are both water soluble, you don't have to worry one bit, as they both rinse away leaving a brighter, smoother, and moisturized complexion. Ever since I discovered how amazing using these ingredients for my skin are, I've been hooked and use them daily. My face has never been so moisturized and smooth. Read more about it below in one of my latest Mode stories. 

Check out Why I Only Wash My Face With Raw Honey and Sugar

by Stina Abion at Mode

What are your thoughts about this skincare alternative? Would you try it? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Please tell me why I would decide to make a table instead of going the simple route and just buy one like normal people do. I'm adding that question to the list of others that seem to escape me because this is one of those projects where I had to stop (on several occasions) to scratch my head and ask myself, what have I gotten myself into!? At the end of the day, it was totally worth it, but let's be honest, getting there was far from a walk in the park.

I now probably have a degree in painting from all of the articles that I devoured and the troubleshooting I went through to complete this project. Little did I know that painting a table is not as basic as it sounds. All I know is that I'm happy to share everything I learned and then some so that this project will be a breeze for you. In other words, I'm happy to have been your guinea pig! That's what DIYs are for, right.

In the mayhem that was this project, I decided that by taking photos, I would probably sabotage myself even more, so I opted not to do so. I do, however have the process down in my memory, so hopefully you don't mind that I don't have any photos of the process to share. 

For starters, it is very very very - and I mean VERY - important to sand down the wood before you proceed with anything. Call me dumb, but I decided that I could just skip that process. Soooo ... long story short, let's just say that I was kicking myself in the butt for it. Another important step is to use primer, then sand, then primer, then sand, and repeat that process until you have a smooth base for your paint. For me, it took several times to achieve a flat surface because I did run into problems with my wood having cracks in it, which I was supposed to fill in with wood putty, but thought I could skip that step as well. 

Since we're on the topic of wood having cracks in it, I also learned (after the fact) that all wood isn't created equal and that certain wood is better for painting and attaining a smooth finish. I did not know this, so I had to deal with the pine that I had already purchased. I don't have anything against pine, but if I had known that there were better options, I probably would have went with those instead so that I didn't have to deal with so many knots and cracks in my wood. Since pine wood has so many knots, you will have to use a primer that will be able to hide them and keep them from peeking through in the future. You may also have to apply wood putty to fill in holes or uneven spots. It was an easy option considering it was pre-cut, but if you want to explore other options, I encourage you to do so.

For the most crucial step - the paint - this is where things got really complicated at first. I decided to use an oil-based paint instead of a water-based paint, in other words, latex paint. An article I read suggested that it was the best choice for tables that receive a lot of use because it stands up to wear very well. What I did not know at the time was that oil-based paint takes longer to dry, can not be washed off of brushes (unless you use turpentine), smells really really bad, can be harmful, and is not eco-friendly! *yikes* So, I learned after the fact that maybe I should've just went with a latex paint, and my life would've probably been way easier and less stressful. 

Seeing that I was able to complete this project (finally) after several weeks due in major part to roadblocks and troubleshooting, I am still so pleased with the outcome, and I'm so proud of it. It was so worth every headache because I learned so much from this project. It's actually a really easy project once you know what you're doing. #notetoself

I just wanted to be completely transparent and honest with you guys beforehand about my experience. If you decide to do this project, here's the step by step of what you need to do to achieve the exact same thing. It'll be way easier for you now that I have all of the techniques figured out and outlined. I do recommend you decide on what type of paint will work best for you, though. If you decide to use latex paint, please do some research first as to how to use it since that's not the paint that I will be using for this project. You'll be surprised as to what a difference a little technique or Google search will do for you and the outcome of your project. 

---

supplies

---

• 1 in. x 2 ft. x 2 ft. Pine Edge Glued Panel Round Board

• 3 - 22 in. Hardwood Round Taper Legs

• 3 - Angled Top Plates with screws

• Rust-oleum 1 qt. Gloss White Protective Enamel Paint

• 2" Polyester Bristle Paintbrush or foam brushes - I do not recommend the ones that are pictured, which are woven and knit rollers. They had a lot of fiber fall-out and created bubbles. I ended up using the ones listed here and got better results.

• Turpentine - To clean your bristle brush in between coats, or you can just use foam brushes and discard after each use making cleanup easier.

• Sanding Sponge Kit Assorted Grit - 80 / 120 / 220

• Minwax Polycrylic Gloss Base 8 fl oz Polyurethane

• Kilz Primer, Sealer, and Stain-Blocker Spray

• Tac Cloth

• Power Drill

• Wood putty or filler (optional)

• Sanding Respirator

• Paint Can Opener

• Something to stir paint with

• String (to measure with)

• Measuring tape

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Instructions

---

I recommend you do this project in an area without a lot of wind, but with good ventilation like a garage. 

Sand

The first thing you'll need to do is to sand the pine wood round to get a smooth base. I would recommend using the 120 grit for rougher areas (the edges of the table), then go over it with the 220 grit paper. For the top of the table, I used the 220 as it is a lot smoother. Remove excess dust with a tac cloth.

Prime & FILL

Spray a thin layer of primer in long strokes with the grain of the wood. Let dry for an hour, then sand with 220 or 120 grit sand paper. Remove excess dust with tac cloth, then repeat steps until you feel like you have a smooth finish. I primed and sanded my table 3 times, but it just depends on your individual results. After the first coat of primer, you will notice that the imperfections will start to show, like scratches, dings, and cracks. If they are not that bad, the primer will fill them in, but if they are deep, you will need to fill them in with wood putty or filler. If you do use wood putty or filler, all you would do is apply it according to the package directions, let it dry, sand smooth, wipe with tac cloth, then add another layer of primer and continue with the process that I've mentioned beforehand.

Paint

The key to getting a smooth finish is to have a smooth base to work with, so I can't stress enough about the importance of sanding as well as removing all dust particles and impurities before you paint. Once you have that covered, you are ready to roll - literally! Working with oil-based paint is a little tricky, but the key to applying it is to not apply it too thick because it will take longer to dry and it will run - oh it will RUN - and you don't want to be like me, stuck sanding it all down again. I learned the hard way.

To apply, use long strokes along the grain of the wood and try not to go over the same spot you painted too many times or it will drag. Since oil-based paint takes longer to dry, it will smooth out, so don't worry too much about getting it completely perfect. I recommend applying paint to the top of the table first, then to the sides of the table (remember, thin coats). Allow your paint to dry completely; dry time will vary by climate. This can take anywhere from 24-72 hrs to weeks, so patience is a virtue here. 

Before you apply your second coat, look for any areas where dust or particles may have entered and sand those areas down with 220 grit sand paper. Completely wipe your table down with a tac cloth to make sure you have a clean surface. To apply the second coat, apply as you did the first. Two coats should be all that you need, but it really depends on your preference. I had to do 3 coats, but that's because I messed up and had to sand down the drips from the second coat I did.

Allow your table to dry for several weeks because the fumes will be strong for a while. Oil-based paint also takes a while to cure, but you can still use it. In the meantime, just be careful not to bang it or it will dent. Once it is fully dry, the finish will cure and harden. 

Legs

For the legs, I do recommend installing them to your table before you apply the polycrylic gloss. To do this, you will need to first measure your table's circumference with string, which will roughly be 75", then cut the string into thirds (25" each). Using the string that you just cut, lay it out along the circumference of the table. At each end, this is where you will mark your spots for where your legs will be installed. Mark your spots at a 4" depth from the edge of the table. Now you can place your top plates on and get to drilling. Make sure that your top plates are angled outward first. It's a simple step that can be overlooked. Mark all four holes on each top plate as a guide, then drill in place. Once that's all done, you can now screw on your legs. 

Now it's time to paint your legs with the polycrylic gloss. I didn't sand mine, but I do recommend you do so to get a smoother finish before you paint. Mine turned out just fine, so it's up to you. Since the polycrylic base is water-based, the wood grain will raise a bit, which you'll either want to sand smooth or you can leave be (which I did). I just used one coat to maintain that natural finish. Let the legs dry for an hour and they're good to go!

That's a wrap for this project! The play kitchen from Ikea was a nice surprise that I ran into while on my trip to the Dallas location, so I had to snatch it up. I think it looks amazing alongside the table! I am going for a Scandinavian look for his play area and for our home, so it's coming together very nicely. I did have a moment where I was considering going for a Scandinavian whitewashed finish, which also would've been pretty. I was able to find the plastic Eames chairs at Hobby Lobby - and they were on SALE! Big win for me. My small succulent arrangement is perfect for this small-sized table, and Uriah doesn't even mess with it. Don't be scared to use white. These are all materials that are easy to clean up and maintain. Uriah has already drawn on the chairs, and it was a cinch to remove.

This project was so worth it. I mean, look at this space! I'm in LOVE. Uriah has been enjoying his little setup, and he can finally have his own kitchen to play in. He's all about being in the kitchen with me, so I just had to do this for him.

Do let me know if you try this project out and if you have any questions, I'd love to help. It will be 100% worth every ounce of love and sweat you put into it! 

Did you enjoy this DIY? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

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This week I'm featuring Seattle-based commercial artist, Ash Sta. Teresa whose patterns, illustrations. and color palettes will bring on the calm as soon as you set your eyes on them. 

She finds inspiration through her 3 kids and interestingly, it wasn't until she had her second child that she began to develop her skill. I love how children have a way of inspiring us to be the best versions of ourselves. You can see the love through her work and many of her illustrations have that child-like charm and innocence, like this illustration.

Her use of pastels and dreamy botanical illustrations are what first drew me to her art. Then, upon scrolling through her Instagram feed, I discovered a playful side that really stood out to me. It's been fun seeing what she comes up with in her 100 day project #dashofombre. 

One of my favorites is where she shows how ripping paper can looks so beautiful. She really inspired me to take time to do something art-related no matter how small it is and to think outside of the box like what she did above and below.

She has a lot going on and has a zillion patterns available for purchase on home decor, phone cases, and more.  If you want to check out all of her amazingness and get to know her more, you can also find her on Minted, Deny Designs, Casetify, and her Website, Dash And Ash. 

Her latest endeavor has her launching an organic children's clothing line, which she hand carves herself. I could definitely see my little one, Uriah rocking these. Give her a follow and help support "Made In The USA"!

Ash shares a bit more in my short Q & A, and before you click out, download the 4 free wallpaper designs she made at the end. Happy downloading!

Q & A

DID YOU ALWAYS HAVE A PASSION FOR ART AND WHEN DID YOU START PURSUING IT?

I really never imagined doing anything else. I always loved creating and didn’t fully develop my skills until after having my 2nd child.

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION?

http://www.denydesigns.com/collections/art-products/at-arrlo-the-buffalo and my kids. They actually tell me what to paint sometimes.

WHAT MEDIUMS DO YOU USE?

Right now mostly watercolor and linocuts. I sometimes play around with acrylic and love drawing on my Wacom.

IN THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF ART?

Pattern, Airy, Simple

DO YOU LISTEN TO MUSIC WHILE CREATING ART? IF SO, WHAT’S ON YOUR PLAYLIST?

I used to love music and I just haven’t made time for it since kids. I feel like noises just come at me all day. I do a ton of thinking while painting and I enjoy the silence of all 3 kids in bed.

DESCRIBE YOUR MOST TREASURED ART PIECE TO DATE - ONE THAT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF.

I had a baby boy in February. I was in a horrible creative place during pregnancy and then suffered a postpartum hemorrhage afterwards, I actually thought I died on the bathroom floor. I was really lucky to be at a great hospital that acted fast. Recovering was a long time spent in bed, I would draw between feeding the baby and sleeping. I decided then to just spend time on art that only I would be proud of. You can see the piece here: Arrlo the Buffalo

NAME ONE ARTIST YOU ADMIRE.

I have to name Four: Ashley Goldberg, Frida, Georgia O'Keeffe, Lisa Congdon

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO EMERGING ARTISTS?

Just start and create art everyday, even if it’s for 5 minutes.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?

I’m in a transition to get more of my art on clothes. I hope that I will have a successful baby clothing line.

IF YOU COULD BE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW, WHERE WOULD YOU WANT TO BE?

New York.

Thanks for stopping by! For wallpaper updates, sign up for my newsletter in my sidebar or simply follow @hlovelyliving on Instagram. Search #cheekyliving to see when new designs are up and tag me with which wallpapers you picked so I can feature your photo!

What types of designs and artist features would you like to see next? Share with me in the comments below! 

Disclosure: All designs are original and for personal use. Artists retain rights to all designs and they may not be copied or reproduced in any form or likeness. We love when you share, but please link back to the original post. Enjoy!

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free resources, inspiration, profilesStina XJune 8, 2016

via The House That Lars Built

Being a plant lady these days bring me great, great joy. Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined how happy plants could make me, but they do.

Could I survive alone in a jungle? Probably.

Yes - that's how happy they make me, and maybe some of you can relate to my obsession.

Lately, I've been wanting to get my hands on every known modern plant stand out there at the moment.

Of course, not one of those has made its way into my home (YET), which makes me very sad.

So, in the meantime, I decided to compile a roundup of DIY Plant Stand Projects that makes waiting one more second that more bearable until my hubby lets me start on another DIY project.

Let's just say, I have a lot of projects that he'd like to see completed before I start on a new one!

Hopefully, I can start on another project soon enough once I share my latest project with you all, which I have nearly given up on but keep faith that it will soon come together. The struggle is real! #PrayForStina

I hope you find a project you like below in my latest Mode story and try your hand at it. Most of them are super easy to make. Have fun my fellow plant chicas!

Check out DIY Modern Plant Stand Projects Because #PlantLady

by Stina Abion at Mode

Stay Inspired Here

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This post may be a little TMI (too much information) for some, but I really wanted to share my wonderful, amazing, awesome, discovery. 

I am going to start out by saying that I am not one to talk about personal hygiene let alone my underarms, but I thought this post would be very helpful to many women and (hopefully) young girls, especially those who are looking for natural alternatives in the deodorant department.

When I was a teen, I remember how irritating it was dealing with certain issues like shaving, dark underarms, deodorants not working, etc. I mean, I still deal with the same issues, but I think I've figured things out over the years.

For one, antiperspirants are a crime against humanity.

Oops, did I just say that! Yes, you heard that right. They are loaded with toxins, the main offender being aluminum, which blocks your body's natural ability to rid itself of toxins through sweating. To top it off, you're adding more toxic load to your body by using products like these, and doing more harm than good.

Commercial deodorants and antiperspirants also contain other harmful carcinogens that may cause long-term health problems with continued use. As you know, deodorants are used on a daily basis, so it's scary to think that we're exposing our bodies to these harmful toxins day in and day out. 

Okay ladies, here's another one. Please hear me when I say that sweating is a GOOD thing.

What makes it bad is when it mixes with bacteria on the skin, which causes odor. Please, please, please, make moves toward eliminating antiperspirants from your household. You are supposed to sweat naturally. 

Yes, it may sound gross, but it really isn't.

I'm not saying to completely stop using any type of deodorant, just look for ones that are naturally derived and free from chemically-derived ingredients. Look for ones that contain essential oils, coconut oil, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), and other safe ingredients. There are so many alternatives and options available these days, or you could even make one yourself (at the end of this post, I'm sharing my homemade deodorant recipe). 

I recommend the The Think Dirty app if you are interested in shopping for cleaner alternatives. It's a good resource to use when shopping around because it allows you to learn about the ingredients in beauty and personal care products and choose cleaner options.

To clarify, deodorants are used for preventing odor by killing the bacteria that causes odor, while antiperspirants block sweat by basically plugging up pores. Most products claim that they do both, so watch out for that.

The more the claim - you can bet - the more the toxins!

A bonus to switching to purely natural deodorants is that I have noticed a huge difference in the color of my underarms. I'm not saying that my underarms were black or anything, but they were enough for me to cry wolf. I'll be sharing my method for whitening underarms in a future post, but one of the main factors in the change of my underarm appearance was indeed switching to a natural deodorant. It made a huge difference. I am now confident enough to flaunt my underarms! Woot woot!

So, what is this super amazing discovery of mine that I wanted to share with you? 

Well, with my move toward a cleaner lifestyle several years ago, I started exploring different types of deodorants (natural ones) and found one that was made from a natural mineral salt. The product is called Crystal, and it's completely natural and EFFECTIVE. The way it works is that, once it's applied, it forms a barrier on the skin that prevents odor-causing bacteria from forming.  

Well, let me just say that this product is extremely effective at protecting the skin from developing any odor - not perfect, but close to it. The one that I use is the Crystal rock*. It literally is a clear crystal rock. All I do is wet it with a little bit of water, then rub it on and let it dry. 

Okay, so that's not the end of the story.

A year or so ago, I decided to try their other variety, Crystal Essence deodorant, which is basically the same thing in liquid form and with essential oils and extracts. I thought, hey, since it's the same thing, why not try it out. I tried it for a long time, and it did work "okay", but didn't work as well as the Crystal rock did. I would still develop BO, which is no bueno!

So, since I was already caught up in the whole process of trying to find something that was close to a normal deodorant stick, what I decided to do was try another natural deodorant that I had been seeing all over social media - Schmidt's. I tried the Lavender + Sage scent. Although I really loved what this company stood for, I found the product to be quite thick, and it didn't work as well as I thought it would. 

Warning: TMI again.

I found that it did not hold up as well as the Crystal rock did. My body rejected it or something because I was getting BO within the 24 hrs that I had applied it. Not kidding! I was sad that Schmidt's didn't work for me, because like I said, I really love the scents that they have to choose from.

Moral of the story: It seems that different formulas react to my body differently. 

So, anyway, after being disappointed in that failed attempt to try something that closely resembled a normal stick of deodorant, I decided to go back to my tried and true Crystal rock, but change one thing.

I decided to also apply tea trea oil as well. 

Breakthrough! The combination of the crystal rock and the tea tree oil work so amazingly well together that I have not experienced BO like I did with the other two deodorants that I tried.

And ... why did I not think of this sooner ... ? Tea tree oil is a natural antibacterial, so it prevents bacteria from forming. I apply undiluted 100% tea tree oil after I rub the Crystal rock on my skin, and - TADAAA!

The perfect deodorant. It works so well for me that I think my deodorant-searching-days are over. 

I forgot to mention that in the past, I have also tried a homemade deodorant using baking soda and coconut oil, which worked well for several months. I'm not sure why I stopped. I think it was more of the matter of convenience that it was lacking, which is why I stuck with the Crystal rock. The Crystal rock dries completely clear and never leaves any residue.

I do recommend the Crystal rock deodorant + tea tree oil if you're interested in my method that has worked well for me.

The best part is that the rock literally lasts for years and years and stays completely new the entire time. It's amazing. For those of you who are interested in purchasing the Crystal rock and tree oil, I'll leave links at the end of this post so that they're easy for you to find!

While I'm at it, I decided to create a homemade deodorant recipe for those of you who are interested in something resembling a traditional deodorant stick.

I know how hard it can be to get used to something different, so this will help to ease the transition. It's also a great way to save money as natural deodorants are pricey! 

Here is some useful information about the ingredients that I've chosen for my natural deodorant recipe and why I chose to use them specifically. That's the good part about homemade recipes, you can always tailor it to you and get the exact benefits and results out of them, naturally. 

Coconut Oil

• Antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties

• Moisturizing to the skin and low molecular weight allowing it to penetrate the skin on a deeper level

Baking Soda

• Natural deodorizer 

• Natural exfoliant

• Neutralizes pH

• Absorbs moisture and oil

• Antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties

Arrowroot Powder

• Absorbs moisture and oil

• Natural thickening agent

Tea Tree Oil

• Antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties

• Natural antiseptic

Lavender Oil

•  Anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antidepressant, antiseptic, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties

• Natural disinfectant and deodorant

• Detoxifying

• Calming  

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Homemade Natural Lavender & Tea Tree Oil Deodorant Recipe 

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Supplies

• 1/4 c coconut oil*

• 1/3 c arrowroot powder

• 1/2 c baking soda

• 20 drops lavender oil*

• 20 drops tea tree oil* 

• 1 empty deodorant container and 1 glass jar

Yield: Makes 1 deodorant stick and 1, 4 oz. jar

Add all ingredients except essential oils together in a bowl, and mix until well combined. 

Once ingredients are all well mixed, add essential oils. Mix well by using a spoon to press the ingredients together to evenly distribute the oils throughout the mixture.

The consistency will begin to resemble that of deodorant, and when pressed, will bind together to form a solid.  

Fill the emty deodorant container with the mixture and press as you go until you reach the top. 

And you're done! The consistency is just like a regular deodorant stick, but be aware that since it does contain coconut oil, it tends to get softer when exposed to warmer temperatures. You can pop it in the freezer for a few minutes to make it retain its shape.

Add any remaining mixture to an empty jar, which you can use to refill your deodorant stick when it runs out, or use out of the jar.

I hope you get to try out this recipe. It's so easy to make and is completely natural, safe, and effective. If you get to try it out, I'd love to hear about your experience. 

What are your thoughts about these natural deodorant options? I'd love to hear what you think in the comments below!

Disclosure: Links that are marked with an * are affiliate links.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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:

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MY 3-INGREDIENT MIGRAINE AND HEADACHE DETOX REMEDY

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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.

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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.

Wallpaper Wednesdays had a short hiatus, but have no fear - it's back! This week, I'm featuring Laura Fedorowicz, a Canadian artist that I came across on Instagram. She makes the most vibrant pieces of art that have a soft and feminine feel while also giving off energy and movement.

Laura's strong use of contrasting colors in vibrant and pastel hues make her art feel very bold, yet soft. Her artwork is perfect for anyone who wants to incorporate color into their home without having to paint the walls. As you can see in the photo above, it accomplishes just that. Her pieces add that perfect modern touch and are filled with abstract patterns, which I can see make any space a happier place because of them.

I really love Laura's use of color and the color palettes that result from her work. Sometimes it can be intimidating to use so many colors, but she uses them so perfectly well that everything comes together without looking overpowering. The patterns she comes up with - well, I can stare at them all day. And her paint swatches look just as beautiful as her finished pieces. 

You can catch Laura running her Etsy shop, Elle and Kay Collection where she sells a wide variety of original modern prints. She also posts regularly on Instagram. Just scrolling through her feed will make you have heart eyes; You'll find beautifully composed pictures of her art and behind the scenes beautiful messes (like above). Isn't it just pretty! She also shares candid moments as an artist and mom of a toddler who knows how to color coordinate with her artwork. Her pup is cute too and can be seen living the good life taking a nap with her art adorned pillow and throw blanket.

But that's just the beginning for Laura, who is quite the busy-bee. I was really excited to find out that her designs can be found on so many products from gift wrapping paper to home decor. I just about wanted everything I saw! Her recent collaboration with Hedoe Paper (above) will make it hard for anyone to want to rip their packages open. I know I just couldn't see myself destroying such beautiful wrapping paper. 

Laura is also active on Deny Designs, where her art has been placed on home decor, cellphone cases, makeup bags, and more. There's literally pages and pages of amazingness happening with her art. I hope you stop by and check her out and give her a follow, but before you do, below is a short Q & A to get to know her a bit more! She also created four amazing free wallpaper designs for your computer and phone toward the end. Happy downloading!

Q & A

DID YOU ALWAYS HAVE A PASSION FOR ART AND WHEN DID YOU START PURSUING IT? 

I have always been passionate about art and design. I can remember re-doing my room at about 10 and going to the paint store, and being so specific about how the room would and should look. The salesperson looked at my mom and said, “She’s going to be an artist”. I spent free time at home painting, and spare periods in high school in the art room creating. After attending OCAD University for Environmental Design, I took a break from creating. I started back up while on maternity leave with my first child and haven’t stopped since. 

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION? 

I find my inspiration all over the place. In everyday life, from fashion trends, floral arrangements, pretty skies. I find since I have started creating again, everywhere I look there is inspiration. (and it is a lovely feeling!) 

WHAT MEDIUMS DO YOU USE? 

I stick to acrylics currently, adding detail in ink when needed. When I first started creating again I used water colors, and I am so itching to play with oil paint. I think my abstracts would be so delicious in the texture that oils bring! 

IN THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF ART? 

Enthusiastic, Bright, Feminine 

DO YOU LISTEN TO MUSIC WHILE CREATING ART? IF SO, WHAT’S ON YOUR PLAYLIST?

Yes, always. A wide mix, Justin Bieber, Beyonce, Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, Drake, and then on the opposite side….I’m a country girl too, Maren Morris, Clare Dunn, Miranda Lambert and obsessing over Thomas Rhett’s “Tangled Up” currently! Just depends on my mood.

DESCRIBE YOUR MOST TREASURED ART PIECE TO DATE - ONE THAT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF. 

My Wild and Free Canvas represents a big breakthrough for me. I realized in that painting - that my very own style and developing voice was one to be proud of. Sharing your art with the world in the beginning is a scary thing - this represents moving on from the fear and stepping out - proudly. I have since turned that canvas into a set of art prints, so others can have Wild and Free in their home.

NAME ONE ARTIST YOU ADMIRE. 

Britt Bass - Her color and the feeling in her abstracts are so stunning. 

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO EMERGING ARTISTS?

Just Create. Focus on your creative drive, your need to create, and just keep moving. You will get distracted, you will sometimes feel defeated or stuck. But just keep going. Usually after those down periods, something wonderful comes. You were meant to create exactly what it is you are creating, and no one else can do it how you do. 

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?

I want to be running a successful online boutique where I can sell not only my own art, but the art and accessories of other artists. I want to curate a shop full of beauty! 

IF YOU COULD BE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW, WHERE WOULD YOU WANT TO BE?

Hawaii. My husband and I went to Hawaii for our honeymoon, and we secretly dream of moving our family there and living a simpler life. 

Thanks for stopping by! For wallpaper updates, sign up for my newsletter in my sidebar or simply follow @hlovelyliving and @cheekybillo on Instagram. Search #cheekyliving to see when new designs are up and tag us with which wallpapers you picked so we can feature your photo!

My Wallpaper Wednesday partner in crime - the lovely, Ena Chahal - can be stalked over here: Instagram | Blog | Casetify | Society 6 

What designs and artist features would you like to see next? Share with me in the comments below! 

Disclosure: All designs are original and for personal use. Artists retain rights to all designs and they may not be copied or reproduced in any form or likeness. We love when you share, but please link back to the original post. Enjoy!

free resources, profiles, inspirationStina XMay 10, 2016modern

via My White Obsession

How many times have you collected a million and one paper bags and asked yourself, now what am I going to do with all of these things? Well, now, I've got the perfect solution for you that'll actually improve your quality of life. Read on in my latest Mode story below - and don't mind the silliness that is my writing. It's 2:25 in the morning and your girl is lacking sleep! :)

Check out You'll Never Look At A Paper Bag The Same Way Again

by Stina Abion at Mode

Living in Oklahoma, being outside to enjoy the weather is a luxury. Not only is the weather bipolar, but it is either extremely cold or extremely hot for the most part of the year. In between, we're lucky to enjoy a good day or two during the week that is perfect - and for me, that means weather in the 70s - 80s! 

Now, being that I'm from an island, you can imagine how extreme this can be for me because what I'm used to back home on Guam is one of two things: rain or shine. Guam's two seasons - wet and dry -  means that if the sun isn't out, it's raining, but for the most part it's beautiful year-round. I miss being able to predict the weather almost every day and be able to enjoy outdoor activities. Since I feel serious deprivation, I jump on any opportunity to go to the park or just drive around to enjoy a good, sunny day and warm weather.

One of the things that I've been wanting to do is create a nice outdoor space on my patio so that I can enjoy any good weather on a moments notice. My sons and I enjoy going outside to get fresh air and enjoy the scenery, and we do get a nice view of the sunset, but one thing prevents us from staying outside for too long; The space is empty! I mean, let me elaborate on that. I have no furniture, no chairs, just a small wooden box with a marble slab on top to hold some plants, but that's it! I would show you a picture of it, but seriously, it's that embarrassing. 

It's been on my mind to do something with the space, but I just haven't had the budget to actually make it something worth doing. So, I've been searching for DIY projects on how I can make things myself for pennies of what it would cost to purchase something at the store. I've found a few DIYs, but not many that are simple and that don't require me to have some level of woodworking expertise or following-directions expertise (in my case). Measurements make me nervous.

So, when Douglas Elliman contacted me to be a part of their Florida Room Challenge, it came at the perfect timing. I had just come back from a family vacation from Florida - which I didn't want to come back from - and my patio had been on my mind for quite a while now. They asked me to share how I would style my dream Florida Room so that I could enjoy it year round. Challenge accepted!

What I decided to create was a space inspired by modern nordic and bohemian design. I've been into a cleaner, more minimalist and airy color palette, so I wanted to stick to warm neutrals and white. I didn't want to stick to a traditional beach feel but create something that was more modern, yet very casual and inviting. Take a look at what I put together and I will go further in depth with my choices toward the end of the post.

1  |  Round Paper Lanterns* | Target

2  |  Sisal Rug* | Kohl's

3  |  Kilim Turkish Cotton Throw* | Terrain

4  |  Ivory Throw Blanket | Layla Grace

5  |  White Wire Chair* | One Kings Lane

6  |  Cactus Garden* | Overstock

7  |  Bertoia Side Chair* | Design Within Reach

8  |  Ferox Aloe | Weylandts

9  |  Whitewashed Wood Wall Mural | Burke Decor

10  |  Macrame Wall Hanging* | Urban Outfitters

11  |  Tribal Pattern Throw Pillow* | Wayfair

12 |  Boston Fern Hanging Basket* | Overstock

13  |  Pear Lantern* | Amara

14  |  Seafarer Medium Lantern* | Zinc Door

15  |  'Morocco' Pillow* | Nordstrom

16  |  Decorative Pillow Sea Foam | Etsy

17  |  Artificial potted cactus | Selfridges & Co.

 

18  |  Ink Hatch Pillow - Ink* | Casa 

19  |  Cameo Cushion Amethyst* | Houseology 

20 |  Seafarer Small Lantern* | Zinc Door

21  |  Mini Artificial Succulent* | Norsdstrom

22 |  Tealight Lantern* | Amara

23  |  Relax Rope Accent Pillow | Kirklands

24  |  Quilted White Pillow | CB2

25  |  Art Club Concept Cushion | Superette

26 |  Mini Artificial Succulent* | Norsdstrom

27 |  Two Toned Grey Cushion* | Target

28  |  Artificial potted cactus* | Selfridges

29  |  Bungalow Sofa* | Serena & Lily

30  |  Sunshine Accent Chair* | Dot & Bo

31  |  Reversible Uncover Tripod Table* | Amara

32  |  Wire Storage Table* | Luisaviaroma

33  |  Melati Hanging Chair* | Anthropologie

34  |  Macrame Hanging Planter* | Urban Outfitters

via Anne Sage

CREATING MY MOOD BOARD

Before I created my mood board, I put together a Pinterest board of all of the outdoor spaces that I wanted to get ideas from, then used those photos to pick out items that I wanted to incorporate into my space. Since this is a "dream" mood board, I kinda went wild with it (a tad overboard), so fair warning that similar items can be found at cheaper prices. I chose each item based on aesthetics, not price, so I do plan on using this mood board as inspiration to find more budget-friendly pieces or ideas for DIY projects.

Here's the breakdown of how I was able to accomplish creating a modern nordic and bohemian inspired space:

via Broste Copenhagen

 

2 | PLANTS

On any given day, you can catch me obsessing over plants, so of course, they had to make an appearance in my Florida Room. Boston ferns are the perfect way to add lush greenery and that pop of color in this neutral space. They're also really easy to care for, so they're a perfect choice for me. I also had to include easy to care for succulents and cactus. I say the more plants the merrier, especially when the weather warms up. Bohemian spaces are all about that jungle vibe, so you can't overdo the plants. I'd say skip the fake plants and just go with the real deal. I've found that succulents and cactus are immune to my plant-killing tendencies, so I can't go wrong with them!

via Broste Copenhagen

4 | NATURAL FINISHES + METALS

Creating a bohemian vibe called for different natural finishes and textures. For example, I chose a variety of finishes like this Sunshine Accent Chair* with a bamboo and wicker seat and this Whitewashed Wood Wall Mural made from reclaimed boards which has a myriad of different textures and stains. I also incorporated lighter shades of wood finishes like this Pear Lantern made from pine wood and this Reversible Uncover Tripod Table* in light ash and brushed metal in aluminum on the opposite side. The Seafarer Medium Lantern* and Seafarer Small Lantern* are made with a variety of natural materials: galvanized metal, fir wood, plywood, bamboo, and jute. I love that it has a gray tone to it, which can be seen repeating in this space. Other natural fibers can be seen in the macrame decor. The tripod legs of the Bungalow Sofa* and Sunshine Accent Chair* are also where that metal comes into play. For more metal on metal action, I chose the Wire Storage Table*, White Wire Chair*, and Bertoia Side Chair* for that clean modern look.

via Broste Copenhagen

 

 

1 | MODERN MACRAME  

I knew that I wanted to add a boho touch to my outdoor space because I love modern macrame, a zillion plants, natural textures and finishes and a relaxed vibe. So, I added this Knotted Melati Hanging Chair* that is macrame perfection. Keeping with the macrame theme, I wanted to also include this Macrame Wall Hanging* that I thought would be perfect as a wall tapestry or to divide the space. Since this is my dream Florida Room after all, I couldn't go without this Macrame Hanging Planter* as well. Hanging plants are a must.

via Mango And Salt

3 | MIX & MATCH SEATING

I wanted to incorporate a lot of seating, so I went in with a white Bungalow Sofa* with hairpin legs. I actually edited the sofa to have hairpin legs, so the sofa seen actually doesn't exist; The original sofa has a rattan base. I'm loving hairpin legs and thought how pretty it would be to use them as legs for a sofa. It would be great for the outdoors because it would be completely open and perfect for small spaces. They're also a good choice for the outdoors because animals or bugs can't hide under them and nest. The platform for the sofa would probably be some type of wood. I also love the look of wire chairs, so I also added those in to touch on the modern nordic feel I was going for. As you can see, since there are so many areas to sit, you can always create separate seating areas and move furniture around to change up the space entirely.

via Broste Copenhagen

5 | FINISHING TOUCHES

I wanted to make sure to include a lot of lighting so that the space can also be used in the evening, so the lanterns on the ground level add that perfect touch along with the hanging Round Paper Lanterns*. Tons and tons of pillows are a must as well as varying patterns and colors, but keeping with a soft color palette. The Kilim Turkish Cotton Throw* and Ivory Throw Blanket are to keep warm and bundle up to when it gets cold. I also added a Sisal Rug* to complete the space because I love outdoor rugs and how they make a space feel like an outdoor living space. I can definitely see myself enjoying this space. Every. Single. Day. There would be no reason to stay indoors with how comfortable, relaxing, and welcoming it looks!

I think I accomplished what I wanted for this room and more. It's the perfect space for any occasion and it would definitely make me happy on those days where I just want to get some fresh air in the comfort of my third story porch. I love how everything came together and how it really incorporates everything I want in an outdoor space. Thank you to Douglas Elliman for inviting me to be a part of this challenge. If you are on the lookout for amazing properties across the US, be sure to check them out, and if you're in need for some inspiration, head over to their Florida page. When I did, it just reaffirmed why my husband and I want to relocate there. 

I hope this inspires you to create a mood board for your outdoor space. Not only will it help you get all of your ideas together, but it will seriously make your dream space more attainable because it'll make your vision come to life. If you create a mood board, I'd love to see it! 

So, what do you think? How would you decorate your dream Florida Room? I'd love to hear about it in the comments below!

Disclosure: Links that are marked with an * are affiliate links.