Traveling Is Good For Mind, Body, And Soul

We’re two weeks into 2019, and I’m making it a point to explore a lot more of California and hopefully travel out of state a few times this year. I love to travel, and I am already getting antsy from keeping still for too long, and I’ve only been in California for a year. I believe traveling and getting beyond your comfort zone is so important for growth and in realizing that there is so much more beyond us and outside our little box that we create for ourselves sometimes.

Over the weekend, we took a drive to Oceanside, which is around an hour from where I live. You don’t need to hop on a plane to travel - just hop in your car! I was absolutely blown away by the colors of the sunset and the water when I arrived. I did not want to leave! I’ll be sharing a few photos from that day and a brief writeup from one of my Hello Lovely Living contributors about why traveling is so good for you.

Have you booked your next vacation yet? You should, as traveling is good for your mind, body, and soul. If you know you are long overdue for a holiday, let this article offer you the incentives you need to book your next flight and escape into your nearest getaway. You might then reach new levels in your life, giving you a sense of renewal in a holistic and meaningful way.

Traveling is good for the mind

You probably don't need us to tell you this, but for your mental wellbeing, traveling is a must. It will sharpen your mind, and you will be forced to think on your feet, such as when you're trying to navigate new places or make sense of foreign languages.

According to this article, traveling is also a number one mood booster because getting away from it all is an effective way to alleviate the symptoms of stress and depression.

You will also increase in knowledge since while traveling, you will get to experience new cultures, tastes, sights, and sounds, each of which will grow your mind and your perspectives on life.

hellolovelyliving.com | Traveling Is Good For Mind, Body, And Soul | Oceanside Pier, California

Traveling is good for the body

This depends on you, of course. If you spend all of your vacation time sunbathing on the beach and eating and drinking anything that is an escape from your usually carefully-prescribed diet, then you are doing your body a disservice.

On the other hand, if you explore your surroundings by hiking on foot or by using a bicycle, spend some of your days swimming in the sea or in the pool, and make use of the exercise facilities at the hotel, then you are going to do your body a lot of good.

That mixed with the health benefits of the sun in more tropical climates and the courage to try some of the more healthier cuisines will ensure your body feels the benefits while away.

Traveling is good for the soul

We aren't necessarily talking about the religious benefits of traveling, although many people do find the ability to connect with their faith when away. Rather, we are suggesting that traveling is a good way to help you connect with yourself.

This is your opportunity to get away from it all, so while you might still keep in touch with friends and family back home through phone or this physical address service, you might also want to remove yourself from the chaos and people of your life by finding time to be alone.

It's while you are away that you will be able to gain a new perspective on your life and on who you are as a person. You might spend time meditating on mountain tops or on a secluded part of a tropical beach to ponder life's bigger questions.

You will have the opportunity to think without your usual distractions getting in the way. As you learn new things about yourself, and as you get a better sense of reality away from life's worries, you should return home with a renewed soul and vigor for life.

So, what are you waiting for? For both body, mind and soul, getting away from it all could be the best thing you do this year. Book a flight away, and renew every aspect of your life. It could be just what you need to do to feel complete again.

If you are looking for a place to stay while traveling, I highly recommend Airbnb. You can find really affordable and convenient places to stay within the area you want to explore while still feeling at home. Get $40 off your first Airbnb trip with the link below!

HELLO LOVELY LIVING

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AIRBNB

$40 off your first airbnb trip

where are you wanting to travel to this year?

This post contains referral links. Please see my privacy policy for a complete disclosure.

Supplies

• 2" Natural wood rings

• Off-white yarn

• Daiso wood cutting board 30 x 19 x 0.9 cm (11.81 x7.48 x 0.35")

• IKEA Drill

• Scissors

• Pen

• Wall hooks

instructions

STEP 1

mark holes + drill

At each corner, mark 1” in from each side, then drill a total of 4 holes.

STEP 2

cut yarn + string through holes

Cut 2 - 4’ pieces of yarn and then string each piece along the landscape orientation of the wood. Evenly distribute yarn so that when it is held upright, you have even lengths of yarn at both sides.

STEP 3

loop strings through wood ring + adjust placement

Gather strings through the wood ring and then place the shelf up against a wall to test out the placement of the strings. To ensure that the wood piece hangs level to the wall, adjust the string’s tension by allowing the wood piece to even out so that it is laying flat. Your strings will be angled slightly, so just hold them tightly against the wood ring because a knot will be placed around them at this length.

STEP 4

cut a 12” piece of yarn + make a gathering knot

Watch my YouTube video above for how to do this part because this is the tricky part!

STEP 5

hang + enjoy

Hang your shelf anywhere on your walls with a picture hanger hook which provides a bit of an angle for the wood ring to rest in. These are the exact ones I used to hang mine.

hellolovelyliving.com | DIY Urban Outfitters Hanging Wood Shelves | Daiso Hack!

Wasn’t that so simple?! I thought it was a very easy project to do. Two shelves could very well be done in less than 15 minutes, so it is also a very quick project. If you decide to make these, let me know how yours turn out. I’d also love to see how you style these.

what home decor items have you been eyeing lately?

This post contains affiliate links. Please see my privacy policy for a complete disclosure.

Kid-Friendly Things To Do in Palm Springs - Follow Us To Palm Springs!

This post is sponsored by Palm Springs but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

Uriah and I took a day trip to Palm Springs over the weekend, and I wanted to share what we did, so in this post I will be doing just that. If you are in the SoCal area, Palm Springs is a great destination for a quick getaway. I wanted to plan my trip so that it was kid-friendly since it was Uriah and I on this trip, so I have compiled a few places that you can consider if you have children too. The Palm Springs Home Page was a great resource for me to start when planning my itinerary for the day.

On the way to Palm Springs, the perfect pit stop is less than 30 minutes out from Downtown Palm Springs if you are heading east from Orange County. Cabazon Dinosaurs is an iconic pop culture attraction located just outside of Palm Springs and was featured in Pee Wee Herman’s Big Adventure and The Wizard. Mr. Rex’s Dinosaur Adventure includes a dinosaur exhibit featuring over 50 lifelike dinosaurs, a dinosaur dig, fossil panning, and access to climb inside Mr. Rex all the way up to his mouth.

hellolovelyliving.com | Kid-Friendly Things To Do in Palm Springs

Uriah absolutely loved it there, even if we didn’t get to go into the exhibit. It’s a nice stop and we simply enjoyed the large dinosaur statues that were outdoors and the dinosaur-themed shop that was located inside one of the dinosaurs. This is a must-go for snapping some photos of some unforgettable memories.

That was our first stop, and then we were headed straight to Downtown Palm Springs. On our way, we could see the vast amount of windmills sprawled across the desert, which is also a popular attraction that is worth the view along with the beautiful mountainous landscape.

Once we got to Palm Springs, we were welcomed by beautiful palm trees and a drive through the main downtown strip that is lined with an abundance of shops and restaurants. Instead of exploring the usual attractions, I chose Frank In Bun as our lunch spot since I knew they had kid-friendly food options such as fries, corn dogs, etc., and of course, their interior was Instagram-worthy and very charming, which was a must! It’s great to go off and explore places that are a little hidden and off the beaten path, so that is what I chose to do.

Once we were all finished with lunch, we headed back to the downtown area which was just a couple mins away, and I parked a few blocks out so that I had effortless parking and could just walk a few short minutes. On our walk, we came across a beautiful mural of Marilyn Manroe and we could see Palm Spring’s version of The Walk of Stars along the sidewalks. There is a lively arts district in Palm Springs, and you can find many art museums and shops in the area, so be sure to explore.

We then headed to a small boho shop called Thick As Thieves. It is located along Downtown South, which is at the very end of the Downtown strip, so it was less busy, and I loved that. The shop was quite small, but had miscellaneous and cute bohemian-themed home accessories and decor.

Along the side of the shop, there was a cute alleyway with additional shops, which happened to be my favorite spot from the trip because there were perfect little photo backdrops that I just loved. It had a very cottage-like feel, and it was a cute area that Uriah enjoyed exploring and running through. I also took a lot of cute shots of him there.

We then crossed the street, and in a few minutes, we were at Rudy’s General Store Museum, a recreated 1930’s shop filled with old fashioned, unused products. It was pretty interesting to see how many authentic products they had that were in such great condition. None of it was on sale, though - bummer! I also thought it would be fun for Uriah, but he didn’t really get the concept yet haha, so we didn’t stay too long, plus it was a very small shop, so look to spending only a few minutes there browsing through. They also charge a $1 admission, but that is not too bad at all!

After that, we stopped by at a candy shop just located right outside of the museum called Palm Springs Fudge & Chocolates. They have various sweet options as well as Dippin’ Dots. Uriah just got bought a ring pop, then we headed back to the car because we only had an hour before the sun would be going down.

I decided to find an outdoor park/playground for Uriah to get his energy out at and have some fun since much of the attractions were geared toward indoor activities. I found a playground called Demuth Park, which had really great reviews and looked like a fun spot for him with huge slides. It was only about 10 minutes away. So, we headed there, and he had such a great time.

Before the sun went down, I decided to find “That Pink Door”. If you are an avid Instagram-addict like myself, you would have seen and heard about this popular Palm Springs Instagram-photo-op destination. Since it is private property, I simply drove past and didn’t stop to take photos, but happy nonetheless to see it in person. The homeowners have since announced that they do not want anyone to take photos there anymore, so I respected their wishes! Watch my vlog for all the footage though of me driving through and getting excited to see it in the wild.

So, that was it and the end of our trip! The sun had gone down, so I headed back home which was a 2-hour drive. I enjoyed our quick little mini getaway! Exploring a different environment and soaking in the different scenery is always my favorite thing to do to reset and recharge. There is a lot more to do in Palm Springs that I would have loved to do, so I will list just a few other things that may be of interest to you if you are planning a trip there soon! Another great resource that I highly recommend is the Palm Springs Home Page, so make sure to check them out for ideas of what to do in the area.

Links to Places Mentioned

Cabazon Dinosaurs

Frank In Bun

Thick As Thieves

Rudy’s General Store Museum

Palm Springs Fudge & Chocolates

Demuth Park

other kid-friendly things to do

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Lappert’s dole wip

Robolights

living desert zoo & gardens

save money

HELLO LOVELY LIVING

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AIRBNB

$40 off your first airbnb trip

I hope you enjoyed this little travel inspiration post! I encourage you to get out there and explore your area! There is so much to see and do, and you don’t need to go out of state or spend a ton of money to experience different things, sceneries, and environments. Be sure to also watch our vlog from this trip for some extra footage of Palm Springs on my YouTube channel or click the video below.

have you been to palm springs? what is your favorite spot?

lifestyleStina XJanuary 7, 2019

Get Real Money | Money Making Apps That Really Work: Ibotta

I love to save and earn money whenever and wherever I can, so today I am starting a series in which I feature ways to do just that! As a business owner and single mom, I am always looking for every opportunity to make my money go even further. Every single thing adds up, and if you are going to spend money anyways, why not save a few bucks? These days, there is always a deal and there are always ways to save - you just have to be resourceful and not impulsive when it comes to purchases. I look forward to sharing more of my money-saving and money-making tips in this series, so I hope you enjoy it and find it to be helpful!

ibotta

Ibotta is a cash back app that allows you to transfer 100% of your Ibotta earnings to PayPal or Venmo as soon as you've earned $20. If you'd rather convert your earnings into a gift card, you can do that, too. You can earn money on purchases from 289 retailers like Target, Walmart, Sprouts, and Amazon (to name a few) and have 3 ways to earn, so it’s easy to rack up those earnings quickly!

how it works

Step 1

Sign up + add offers

SIgn up here. You’ll receive a $5 bonus just for signing up! Simply search for offers and add them by completing simple tasks like answering a question or watching a short video.

Step 2

go shopping: three ways to earn + bonuses

Earn money in 3 ways: Send receipt, link a loyalty card, or make mobile in-app purchases. Depending on which way(s) you choose to earn, you will required to follow the steps in order to redeem your purchases. You can also earn cash from bonuses.

Send Receipt
Buy the products at participating stores. Redeem offers by taking a photo of your receipt and Ibotta will match your purchases with the offers you selected.
Link Loyalty Card
Link your store loyalty account by choosing one of Ibotta’s Preferred Partners. Use your loyalty card or phone number at check out.
Mobile In-app Purchases
Before you shop, browse cash back offers from top apps. Tap on the Shop button from the Ibotta app. Make a qualifying purchase in a participating app.
Bonuses
Get extra cash back by completing bonuses such as redeeming offers at specific retailers and by completing certain tasks.
Referral + teamwork
When you invite friends to download the app, Ibotta gives you a cash gift for doing so. Friends can also become a part of your team if you sign up using Facebook and everyone can take advantage of teamwork bonuses offered every month.

Step 3 get cash

Your cash back will be deposited into your Ibotta account within 48 hours of submitting offers. You can then cash out your earnings to PayPal or Venmo once you’ve earned $20.

“Get Real Money! Money Making Apps That Really Work https://bit.ly/hllxibotta @hlovelyliving #hellolovelyliving”

click to tweet >

Final Thoughts

Why I like Ibotta

Ibotta is an easy way to save money on ordinary purchases, and offers are so easy to redeem. Cash back can really add up quickly. I have earned over $50 using Ibotta so far, so I highly recommend it from my personal experience.

PRO TIP

To save even more on my purchases, I also like to search for matching offers on other coupon apps like the Target app. Many times, offers will be available on both the Target and Ibotta apps, which means that you can save even more on products and potentially get products for free or next to nothing. If you are an extreme couponer, you could even find matching coupons that you can redeem at the store in addition to using Ibotta and other digital coupon apps.

Of course, there’s always the option of benefitting from coupons, promo codes, and credit offers from shopping online. So, if you are wanting to make an online purchase at say, Walmart, you can still save money, but instead of having to submit receipts, your purchases would be automatically tracked. It’s a win-win situation either way!

download Ibotta >

That is it for today’s post! I hope you do take advantage of using Ibotta because it is such a simple and easy way to save and earn money, and it would be a tragedy not to haha! Make sure to follow along for more posts just like this in the near future. I am happy to share more of my money making hacks really soon!

do you use cash back apps? which ones are your favorite?

This post contains referral links. Please see my privacy policy for a complete disclosure.

lifestyleStina XJanuary 2, 2019apps that make money, money saving app, grocery app, get money app, make money, get money, easy money, make money from home, venmo, quick money, make money from phone

Guest Post | Design Matters: An interview with branding expert Debbie Millman

I’m back with another post, and today we’re talking about a few important tips to creating a brand presence that is authentic to you. On this blog, I love to discuss topics that are real and often vulnerable, and in this article, we reinforce the idea of getting outside of our comfort zones.

I often work with women that are starting a brand new blog or website, and if there’s any advice that I try to share with them from the get-go, it is exactly the advice that you will read in this article. I hope you enjoy it, and I hope it inspires you to just get out there are share your story (struggles and all), be yourself, and be confident in it all.

We recently got the opportunity to sit down with Debbie Millman: author, educator, curator, and host of the podcast Design Matters, one of the world's first and longest-running podcasts.

As the host of Design Matters, Millman has interviewed over 400 artists, designers, and cultural commentators. In the 13 years since its inception, the show has garnered over five million downloads per year, honored with a Cooper Hewitt National Design Award, and designated one of the best overall podcasts by iTunes.

Debbie is the author of six books and President Emeritus of AIGA, one of five women to hold the position in the organization’s 100-year history. She's a frequent speaker on design and branding and has been a juror for competitions including Cannes Lions, The Clio’s, the One Club and many, many more.

Here, she shares her thoughts on authenticity and vulnerability in branding and life.

Debbie, tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am a designer, an author, and an educator at the School of Visual Arts. I co-founded and run a graduate program in branding. I'm also the host of a podcast called Design Matters.

What tips can you offer to someone who wants to create a new brand presence for themselves?

Well, I wouldn't recommend that someone ever recreate themselves; I would recommend that they feature who they are on their best day, in a way that feels very authentic and true to their soul and being. People tend to respond more favorably to people that are being themselves, and, in many ways, holding that "freak" flag really high, because they can then relate and be able to connect with them in a much more visceral manner.

So, my recommendation would be to celebrate who you are on your best day, speak from the heart, and offer an opportunity for people to get to know who you really are.

A lot of people are hesitant to really put themselves out there. What would you say to them?

Watch Brené Brown's TED Talk about vulnerability. I really, truly believe that vulnerability is the birthplace of creativity, and you can't be creative and say something that is going to touch or reach other people unless you are doing it with your own open heart. So there really is no choice. If you're not comfortable with being vulnerable, my strong recommendation would be to get comfortable being vulnerable, because why else would anybody want to get to know you or pay attention to what you have to say? What are they getting to know, then? Some false friend?

How can people get out of their comfort zone and become more authentic?

Take small steps, small moves. You don't have to reveal everything about your childhood in your first email, but if you can share some part of yourself that you feel is worthy of connecting with other people, and people will feel is honest, then why wouldn't you want to do that?

That's what people want to know about you. They don't want to know all of the successes and all of the amazing things you're doing. They want to know how you've struggled, or how you've overcome an obstacle, or what lesson you learned in the process of doing something. And the more you can share that, I think the more value it has, both to yourself and to others.

Specifically, what kind of value does sharing your failures provide?

Well, everybody has experienced failure. And if you aren't able or capable of sharing what you've done wrong, why would anybody care if you're sharing what you've done right? And I feel that if we're putting a face forward that's only positive and only impressive, then we're manufacturing our meaning, because that's only one small part of what it means to be human, and strive, and long for things, and create things, and make things. And there is none of that without failure, rejection, vulnerability, fear. All of those things are just part of the process of being a maker.

Are there any particular failures or struggles that you can recount from your professional career that helped you become who you are today?

Well, almost anything I've done has been fueled by an enormous amount of rejection, whether it be book ideas, business ideas, or new pitches. My past is riddled and littered with rejections and failures. But, there are very few that I can actually look back on now and say, "I didn't either learn something, or overcome something to get to a better place, or create something out of that failure, that then became successful."

And, of course, it's easy to look back on it and say in hindsight, "Well, if that hadn't happened, then that wouldn't have happened, and then that wouldn't have happened, and I wouldn't be sitting right here," but I can tell you that it's really true.

Are there any other places that you turn to for inspiration in your career?

Well, I love to read. I love to learn, so for me, some of the people that I'm either mentored by or inspired by are people like Seth Godin, who is one of the most generous, smartest, kindest people on the planet. And he does a daily blog, seven days a week, and so you can get daily morning inspiration from him. Also, Steven Heller. He's somebody that has also been enormously supportive and helpful to me, and mentored me, and inspired me, and educated me in ways that I could never have imagined. So those are two people, on a daily basis, that I turn to, both personally and professionally, online and offline.

Finally: What's your number one tip for brands who want to create a better connection with their audience?

Think about the benefit you can provide your audience. People aren't really interested in another form, or another flavor. They're interested in what kind of difference you can make in their lives. So, what can you offer your audience that will help them grow, help them become more successful, help them learn something that they wouldn't have expected or had the opportunity to do? What can you offer your audience that no one else can?

Interested in hearing more from Debbie? Check out her podcast, Design Matters!

I hope you enjoyed that short inspirational post. I know how hard it is to be vulnerable, especially in this online space. I can personally say that I have shrunk back a little just due to a lot that has happened within the past couple years within my personal life. I feel like I have a lot to share, but I don’t know where to start. It can be overwhelming. It IS tough to share our struggles, but at the end of the day, that is what helps us get through them.

Lately I’ve just been feeling the pressure to have it all together. Perhaps this opens a new chapter for me to share more struggles that I’ve been through. This interview really brought me back to why I’m here in the first place. I want to continue to create a space that is inspiring and real. This may be the start for more sharing and being confident in my imperfect story.

A special thank you to Emma for this guest post. They have many amazing marketing resources to help you with your online business. I especially enjoy their Email Showdown series where they compare the email marketing of two brands. I highly recommend their resources, so do check them out if you are needing help with email marketing and want marketing tips from the pros!

In addition, if you are needing help developing your brand, I am here to help you from start to finish. Get in touch with me here for a free consultation.

is being vulnerable something that you struggle with and how? i’d love to have a discussion below.

inspiration, businessStina XDecember 13, 2018women in business, los angeles, work from home, home based business

CBD Series Part 4 | Will I Be Trying Hemp Products? My Final Thoughts About CBD Oil

This series started out with me being curious - and rightfully so! With so many talks about the benefits surrounding CBD oil, I just had to learn about it and share those findings with you all. I’m all for discovering new things, which includes things that will improve my quality of life and wellbeing. In my search for truth, I learned a ton of things that really opened my eyes to a whole new world - literally. In the final part of this series, I will be sharing a few of my final thoughts about CBD oil.

what i learned

my main takeaways about cbd oil

Prior to doing this series, I was very curious about CBD oil. Simply put, I did not know that there was so much to learn about the topic and that I was highly under-informed to say the least. Here is a list of things that I learned that made a huge impact on how I viewed the CBD oil industry as a whole:

CBD oil has an outrageous amount of health benefits

In part 1-3 of this series, I talked about the many benefits of CBD oil and Hemp Seed Oil. Of those benefits, the main ones that caught my attention and that I believe would particularly benefit me are in treating the following:

migraines
insomnia
nausea (caused by migraines)
acne
stress
anxiety

cbd oil is legal and safe

Anyone can buy CBD oil online, and it is legal and regulated across the 50 states. The World Health Organization concluded that it is not harmful in 2017.

CBD oil will not get you high

Little did I know that CBD oil actually had a purpose - and it was not to get high. If you read Part 1 in this series, I explained that CBD oil contains less than 0.3% of THC, which is essentially 0% in terms of it ever having the ability to produce a high whatsoever.

CBD oil is made from industrial hemp and not marijuana

Hemp and marijuana are essentially variants of the same plant, cannabis sativa, but they have very different purposes and composition. CBD oil is produced from industrial hemp, which has high levels of CBD. In contrast, marijuana is primarily produced for its high levels of THC content. An easy way to look at it is hemp = CBD and marijuana = THC

CBD oil has many uses and comes in different products

There are so many ways to take advantage of the benefits of CBD oil. It can be vaped, applied topically through various skincare products, taken orally using MedsBiotech CBD oil in the form of CBD capsules, various edibles such as gummies, chocolate, cake pops, dabs, drops, and drinks. I’m sure there is more out there too! CBD oil has many benefits, but specifically, CBD for anxiety is one of its common uses.

the conclusion

Will I be trying CBD Oil and other hemp products?

I wouldn’t have imagined that I would ever venture into this category of products or even consider using them. The truth is, I was not educated about the properties, uses, and benefits of hemp products, so I really was naive in my thoughts about them. It took me so long to look into it, but here we are, and I learned so much. I can honestly say that my views have expanded and yes, I definitely would like to try hemp products in the near future. Here is a list of hemp products that I would like to venture into trying and experiencing the benefits for myself:

Flavored CBD vape oil
Hemp Skincare
Edibles (gummies)
Hemp seeds

As a huge supporter of going the natural route in terms of treating illness and health concerns, I believe that CBD oil and hemp products are just as good as any other natural products on the market. All natural products have their specific uses and benefits, so why not explore and enjoy them if you choose? It feels so good to know what you’re putting in your body, and it is even more fulfilling when you are choosing products in a conscious way. When you know what specific products do for your body, you can listen to your body and determine what is best for you at that particular time.

As always, treating the underlying cause of the issue is even more important, in my opinion. Symptoms are usually a result of a deeper-rooted issue, so try to listen to your body and identify what it is trying to tell you. When the body responds in illness, your body is saying, hey, pay attention to me! I believe that the body has the ability to heal itself with the proper care that we give it. Of course, natural products will always be the better option when dealing with health concerns that traditionally require over-the-counter or prescription medications.

Many people are recognizing that there are so many natural alternatives available, which is amazing because people are becoming more educated about their options. I remember when I first started learning about natural remedies and natural products - I felt like an alien venturing into some far off land because it was a new concept that I had to prove to people. At the time, I was living on Guam and found myself dealing with many health problems. I decided to take control of my health by doing research on natural ways to heal my body. That was the start of my whole wellness journey, which is an endless pursuit because I’m always learning something new, and there’s always room for growth. I am glad that I added all of this information to my “farmacy” as I like to call it. Nature is so abundant and amazing, and I believe that so many answers to our problems can be found in it.

Thank you for tuning into this series, and if you have not already, make sure to go back and read Parts 1-4. This will seriously expose you to some new ideas about a wonderful plant that has so many amazing benefits. I learned so much from this series, and I hope you did to. Are there any other questions that you’d like answered? Comment them below, and I will do my best to answer them. I’d also love to hear about your thoughts about the different CBD and hemp options that I shared, and if you’ve had any experience using them, please share that too.

are you interested in trying hemp products?

Disclosure: This post is purely from my personal findings and for informational purposes only, not to be construed as medical advice. Please seek medical advice from a licensed health practitioner. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Please see my privacy policy for a complete disclosure.

wellnessStina XNovember 9, 2018what is cbd, what is cbd oil, cbd benefits, hemp, healthy hemp oil, buy cbd oil, cbd oil legal, cbd oil benefits, cbd oil, cbd, cbd oil for pain

CBD Series Part 3 | Your Dog Can Benefit From CBD Oil Too? CBD for pets: How To Naturally Treat Separation Anxiety In Dogs

When I found out that pets can also benefit from CBD oil, I was shook. I mean, learning about CBD oil to begin with has been an eye-opener. It’s been a while since I had a pet, but I’ve always loved animals and had a special love for dogs and birds. I have so many great memories growing up with a Boston Bull Terrier as our family dog. To this day, they are my breed of choice simply because they remind me of my childhood and are just the most amazing dogs I know. In Part 3 of this series, I will be focusing on our furry friends and how CBD oil can benefit them.

separation anxiety in dogs

is it that serious?

If you are a dog owner, you know that the separation anxiety in dogs is real. I remember coming home to my dog, Ginny, and she would always welcome us with a catastrophic scene to enjoy. She would tear up the bathroom and leave it covered with slobber and drool. I’m not sure how such a tiny dog could do that, but she did, haha! Each time we were away from her, I’m sure she was a huge ball of stress. I would always feel so bad when we would come home to her seeing that she was stressed, yet excited at the same time. She would do this classic ballerina twirl that I will never forget, which showed how excited and anxious she was for us to be home. She did not like to be alone at all.

The severity of separation anxiety in dogs will vary with each pet, and the symptoms of that anxiety will also vary. Some dogs are extremely attached to their owners, so being away from them causes certain destructive and unhealthy behaviors that I will discuss next. It can become a serious issue if the pet is in constant distress each time they are separated from their owner. If the underlying cause of the symptoms can be treated and would promote a healthier environment for both the owner and dog, then that will improve the quality of life for both. Not only is stress not good for pets and humans, but it can affect that special bond as well.

Symptoms caused by separation anxiety in dogs

How can I tell if my dog suffers from separation anxiety?

Knowing the signs and symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs is important in deciding if your dog needs treatment. If there is a way that we can help our furry pals and in a natural way, why not, right? There are a few things to look out for when identifying if your dog is behaving in a way that is not normal and apart from them just knowing what the rules are or being a normal fun-loving dog.

Instinctively, you will know if your dog’s behavior is in response to the distress of being apart from you or if he or she is just acting out normal pup behavior. The difference will be if you notice things in excess such as barking and howling that shows aggression or irritation in response to different stimuli. Hyperactivity may be a cause for concern too, especially if it results in aggressive behaviors. Here is a quick list of symptoms that can be used to identify separation anxiety in dogs:

Excessive soiling, salivation, drooling, or panting
Restlessness and intense pacing back and forth
Excessively scratching themselves or walls and doors
Digging behavior or attempting escape from room or crate
Vomiting
Hyperactivity or panicked behaviors
Aggression toward animals or people
Whining, crying, shaking, tail tucked, or trembling
Following you around the house and not wanting to leave your side

general symptoms of anxiety in dogs

what are other behaviors that i should look out for?

There are other forms of anxiety that dogs may display and affect their ability to respond to their environment in a healthy way. Did you know that dogs can also suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? Rescue dogs can exhibit symptoms of separation anxiety due to their previous negative experiences, which can impact them severely. Dogs can also develop obsessive traits that cause them to fixate on a particular stimulus making them exhibit hyperactive behaviors every time they are exposed to it. Here is another list of common symptoms of anxiety in dogs:

Barking at cars, people, or other animals
Anxiousness when riding in cars or during travel
Anxiousness when being exposed to new people or places
Fearfulness caused by PTSD
Anxiousness in response to fireworks or storms
Sensitivity to common noises

cbd oil treatment for anxiety in dogs

how can i treat my dog that suffers from anxiety?

Dogs have similar natural cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system as humans, which is involves the physiological processes such as appetite, pain sensation, mood, and memory. This means that they have a similar response to such products as CBD oil, which is an effective treatment for anxiety in humans. What is CBD oil? If you have not read Part 1 of this series yet, I highly encourage you to read that first as it will explain what CBD oil is, it’s benefits, and other common questions in greater detail.

To sum it up, CBD oil is made from the hemp plant and contains high levels of CBD, a cannabinoid that essentially works with the body’s natural endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for various chemical processes within the body. CBD oil is an effective treatment for dogs that suffer from separation anxiety and other forms of anxiety due to it's calming and anti-anxiety effects. CBD oil works by enhancing the body’s natural ability to stabilize mood by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system to calm and soothe anxiety. CBD oil can correct many of the behaviors that dogs exhibit in response to stress or anxiety.

CBD for dogs is available in drop form and can be added to their food, treats, or water 1-2 times a day depending on their condition. I know I only covered dogs in this article, but CBD for pets is also available, which means your cats can enjoy the benefits of CBD oil too. Just make sure that you check the label to ensure that it is specific to the animal that you are purchasing it for since they may be made for either dogs or cats and not both. You can also buy CBD oil for pets in the form of treats, and they come in various flavors that they will love.

hellolovelyliving.com | CBD Series Part 3 | Your Dog Can Benefit From CBD Oil Too? CBD for pets: How To Naturally Treat Separation Anxiety In Dogs

thoughts

does cbd oil for dogs work and is it effective?

If you do an online search for testimonials of CBD oil being used for dogs exhibiting anxiety, there are a lot of positive responses out there. It was interesting reading some of the testimonials and how people have had much success with treating their dogs with CBD oil. I really did not know how popular it was until now, but from what I can tell you, it is a very effective treatment that dog owners are currently raving about. So, would I use CBD oil if I had a dog that suffered from anxiety? In Part 4 of this series, I am spilling all of my final thoughts and many takeaways. I will also be answering the question of whether or not I will be trying out CBD oil products for myself. Stay tuned for Part 4, which is the last in this series.

does your dog suffer from anxiety and what are his/her symptoms?

wellnessStina XNovember 9, 2018healthy hemp oil, cbd for pets, cbd oil for pain, cbd oil, cbd, cbd oil dogs, cbd oil benefits, cbd oil legal, cbd oil pets, buy cbd oil, cbd benefits, what is cbd oil, hemp, what is cbd

CBD Series Part 2 | Exploring The Natural Skincare Benefits Of Hemp Seed Oil

In Part 1 of this series, I talked about CBD oil and answered the main questions that I was curious about. In Part 2, I will be talking about hemp seed oil. Many people think that hemp and CBD oil are the same thing - is this true? I will be breaking everything down for you. I am excited about this topic because skincare is one of my most loved things to learn about and to practice. I am always wanting to learn and share more about natural skincare products, so let’s get into it!

Hemp seed oil vs CBD oil

What’s the difference?

Is there a difference between hemp seed oil and CBD oil? The answer is yes! It’s easy to get confused about the many terms that are circulating around when referring to cannabis in general. It’s also common to assume that since it comes from the same plant, it’s the same thing. However, that is not true. As I showed you in Part 1 of this series - What Is CBD Oil? Is CBD The Same As THC? + Other Questions Answered - there are many important distinctions that need to be made.

When referring to hemp seed oil, many confuse it as being one and the same with CBD oil, and phrases such as hemp oil and cannabis oil also add to the confusion. Both hemp seed oil and CBD oil are extracted from industrial hemp, but in different ways. Hemp seed oil is extracted from the seeds of the plant, and CBD oil is extracted from the flowers, leaves, and stalks (whole plant). Both hemp seed oil and CBD oil contain trace amounts of THC, which I explained is the effect of using industrial hemp to produce these oils instead of cannabis. Unlike cannabis, hemp contains trace amounts of THC. Compared with CBD oil which contains up to 15% of CBD, hemp seed oil does not contain CBD.

Hemp seed oil contains high levels of fatty acids such as omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3) are found in a ratio of 3:1, which is believed to be the optimal ratio. Hemp seed oil also contains high levels of vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant. It can contain up to 100-150g of vitamin E per 100g of hemp seed oil. It is also the only edible oil that contains greater than 80% of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which makes it a very nutritious and beneficial oil when used in both oral and topical applications.

To understand the purpose of CBD oil, make sure to check out Part 1 of this series where I dive more in depth into its uses and benefits.

hemp seed oil for skin

What are the benefits of hemp seed oil?

Since hemp seed oil is so rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, Linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3), and Vitamin E, and other beneficial nutrients, it makes it a perfect candidate for skincare products. Here is a list of hemp skincare benefits:

Hemp seed oil is an effective hydrator meaning it actually puts moisture into the skin as opposed to just laying on the surface of the skin and only keeping moisture in like typical moisturizers do
Hemp seed oil is non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog pores. The fats or lipids in the oil are similar to that found in the skin, so it regulates the skin’s oil production
Hemp seed oil increases the elasticity of the skin by locking moisture into the skin, so it can also be used in the prevention and treatment of stretch marks
Hemp seed oil is an effective anti-aging treatment due to its high antioxidant protection, which fights free radicals that can damage skin cells
Hemp seed oil is a skin plumper, so it fills skin with moisture and stimulates the natural production of collagen, which prevents fine lines and wrinkles
Hemp seed oil regenerates the hydrolipidic layer of the skin by preventing it from dehydrating and providing a natural skin barrier that protects it from irritants and environmental stresses
Vitamin E protects protects against oxidative damage and provides a protective shield for the skin in the form of antioxidants
In addition to the nutritional makeup mentioned previously, hemp seed oil also contains vitamin a, potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, calcium, and phosphorus, which when taken as a dietary supplement, nourishes the body from the inside out providing antioxidant, hormone regulating, and anti-inflammatory properties
Hemp seed oil is an effective acne prevention and control method due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which alleviates redness. Its fatty acid content makes it a perfect oil for preventing dry skin without clogging pores
Due it its gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) content, which is an anti-inflammatory, hemp seed oil is also an effective treatment for healing the skin and treating other skin inflammatory conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis

hemp skincare products

what products are available?

When looking for hemp skincare products, look for products that contain non-GMO, organic hemp seed oil and that are eco-farmed following ecologically friendly processes. Also make sure that the company is committed to ensuring the best extraction process to retain all of the beneficial molecules of the plant and that there are no synthetics contained in the product.

You can find various hemp skincare products available such as hemp lotions, hemp creams, hemp scrubs, hemp masks, hemp body butters, hemp serums and hemp moisturizers, hemp body sprays, hemp fragrances, and even oral supplements. Each will serve a particular purpose so that you can enjoy the benefits of hemp seed oil in various skincare applications.

thoughts

will i be using hemp seed oil for skincare?

I am amazed about the many benefits of hemp seed oil for the skin, and I feel like I have been missing out, but is it too good to be true? Will I be trying out skincare products that contain organic hemp seed oil? We shall find out in Part 4 of this series! I am also curious about eating hemp seeds now, because if applying it to the skin is good, imagine what it can do from the inside out? I have heard that it contains loads of protein - and we can’t forget about those good omega fats that it contains. Those do wonders for the body. I have seen it in stores and heard about many people using hemp seeds in smoothies and as a topping for fruit bowls and things like that, but I have never tried it out. I heard it has a nutty flavor, which is maybe the reason I am thinking about trying it out. My research continues in this series, so I still have some things to learn. I hope you are following along because in Part 3, I will be talking about CBD oil and its use in treating dogs that suffer from separation anxiety. Follow along for more!

are you also shook about the many skincare benefits of hemp seed oil?

wellnessStina XNovember 9, 2018what is cbd, buy cbd oil, cbd benefits, cbd oil benefits, what is cbd oil, hemp, cbd oil legal, cbd oil, hemp oil uses, cbd, healthy hemp oil, uses for hemp oil, hemp oil cbd

CBD Series Part 1 | What is CBD oil? Is CBD the same as THC? + Other Questions Answered

I am back with a wellness topic because it is my goal to get back to one of my passions, which is learning and sharing about natural and holistic forms of self-care. I will be doing a 4-part series on CBD oil where I explore its many uses, benefits, and forms it is available in. I find it fascinating how there are still so many natural products out there to learn about. CBD oil is a product that still has many misconceptions surrounding it due to its relationship with cannabis. It is an emerging product that many people still do not completely understand, including myself - until now.

My curiosity about CBD oil came to be because I noticed that it is becoming more commonly used and available in many different forms and is a part of an industry that is growing exponentially. I had no prior knowledge about CBD oil other than knowing that it had a direct relationship with cannabis, so I had many questions and pre-existing views on the topic that required me to become more educated about it.

So, here we are. I am going to break it all down and answer all of the questions that I was curious about. I will demystify what there is to know about CBD oil and its various products. I hope that you learn something new from this series! At the end of this 4-part series, I will share my final thoughts and share whether or not I will be trying out hemp products for myself!

hellolovelyliving.com | CBD Series Part 1 | What is CBD oil? Is CBD the same as THC? + Other Questions Answered

one |

what does CBD stand for? what is cbd oil?

CBD stands for cannabidiol and is a cannabinoid that is naturally produced by the hemp and cannabis plant. It comprises of up to 40% of the hemp plant. CBD oil is made from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of industrial hemp. Think of cannabidiol as the short, tiny, hair-like structures that grow on the plant and cannabinoids as the chemicals that are unique to it. There are 480 natural components found within the cannabis sativa plant, 66 of which have been classified as cannabinoids. These chemicals react with specific receptors located in the central nervous system of the user.

two |

is CBD the same as THC? Is CBD oil legal?

Like CBD, THC is a cannabinoid. They both have the exact same molecular structure, but their atoms are arranged differently, which causes your body to respond differently to each. Despite their similarities, CBD and THC don’t have the same psychoactive effects. Essentially, you will not get “high” off of CBD oil because it is a non-psychoactive compound. It can even decrease the psychoactive effects of THC.

Another thing worth noting is that CBD oil is made from industrial hemp, not to be confused with cannabis otherwise known as marijuana. Hemp and marijuana come from the same plant family, cannabis sativa, but are not the same and have very specific differences. Industrial hemp has a negligible THC content of 0.3% compared with marijuana, which has anywhere from 5-20% or 20-30% in premium batches. For this very reason, industrial hemp is used to produce CBD oil due to its high CBD content and next to nothing THC content. It is also why CBD oil is legal. Industrial hemp is heavily regulated and does not contain psychoactive properties like marijuana does.

three |

Is CBD oil addictive? is cbd oil safe?

To put it plain and simple, no, CBD oil is not addictive, and neither is it dangerous. This comes from a 27-page report by the World Health Organization (WHO) which studied many aspects of CBD, including its potential for abuse and addictiveness.

“An orally administered dose of 600mg of CBD did not differ from placebo on the scales of the Addiction Research Centre Inventory,” it continued, “a 16 item Visual Analogue Mood Scale, subjective level of intoxication or psychotic symptoms.”

In conclusion, there were no negative findings on CBD use in the report, which I will touch on later.

four |

What are CBD oil benefits?

CBD oil continues to increase in popularity due to its numerous health benefits. Here is a list of CBD oil benefits that are emerging:

Natural chronic pain relief and anti-inflammatory treatment
Migraine relief
Aids smokers in curbing nicotine cravings and smoking less
Substance abuse treatment
- Prevents or reduces withdrawal symptoms in those suffering from substance abuse
Effective treatment for epilepsy according to 2017 World Health Organization (WHO) study
- Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) involving different kinds of seizures
- Dravet syndrome (DS), a rare genetic condition that causes frequent, fever-related seizures in the first year of life
May provide treatment for other neurological complications linked to epilepsy such as neurodegeneration, neuronal injury, and psychiatric diseases
- Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease by slowing its progression and aiding with and preventing cognitive decline
Antipsychotic treatment for psychosis or mental disorders such as schizophrenia
Alleviates cancer-related symptoms caused by chemotherapy
- Nausea and vomiting relief
Cancer-fighting properties
- Suppresses growth of cancer cells
- Anti-tumor effects by preventing the spread of cancer
Reduces anxiety-related conditions - post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Treatment for depression through antidepressant-like effects and ability to influence serotonin responses
Treatment for insomnia
Eases inflammation and slows down or prevents the development of Type 1 Diabetes
Eases inflammation and reduces sebum production that causes acne
Heart-health benefits
- Reduces high blood pressure
- Stress-reducing properties

five |

How To Use CBD oil and cbd Vape Oil and Who sells CBD oil near me?

CBD comes in a variety of products, but the ones I will be discussing in part 1 of this series are CBD oil and CBD vape oil. CBD oils can be used as CBD oral drops (CBD tincture), in vape liquid or topically to name a few. CBD oil comes in all kinds of flavors - peach, watermelon, strawberry, and berry cotton candy among others. You can purchase travel-sized CBD-droppers for an on-the-go daily single usage, and CBD oral drops can simply be placed under the tongue for absorption. CBD vape oil consists of various vapor liquids that can be vaped via vape pens, e-cigarettes or vaporizers. CBD vape oils also come in a variety of flavors. Vaping pens contain flavored e-liquid that comes charged up and ready to go, which is a convenient and disposable option.

In my opinion, the easiest way to find out who sells CBD oil is to do an online search so you are able to price check and have access to a greater variety of products at competitive prices. There are many CBD oil companies out there, but I highly encourage you to do your research first about the quality of the product that you are purchasing. I highly recommend checking out Diamond CBD because I found their products to be non-GMO, organically grown and made in the US, and produced with federally-legal CBD. They use a supercritical CO2 extraction method to obtain CBD oil, which is the highest standard in the industry, and their processes ensure the quality and efficacy of the product. They also have a large selection of other CBD products such as edibles, drinks, dabs, creams, and pet-friendly options as well that may be of interest to you.

thoughts |

will i be using CBD oil?

I have to say, I learned so much about this topic, and it actually opened up my eyes to a topic that I had misconceptions about. All I can say is that there is always something new to learn. Now, the question is, will I be trying out CBD oil for myself? The answer is you’ll have to wait until Part 4 of this series to find out! I am still curious to see what else I will learn about CBD oil. I believe that if it is natural and can improve my quality of life, why not learn about it? If I happen to benefit from my findings, then that’s a win for me - I discovered something new and another natural option in my self-care journey. If that should lead me to using or not using the product, at least I educated myself about it first and know all of the ins and outs of it. I encourage you to do the same!

If you’d like to learn even more about CBD oil, specifically the difference between CBD and THC, check out the I'm CBD, I'm THC campaign. I thought it was so funny and think you’d enjoy it. Also, go to Part 2 of this series where I’ll be talking about hemp seed oil for skincare.

Do you have any questions about CBD oil?

wellnessStina XNovember 9, 2018healthy hemp oil, cbd oil for pain, cbd oil, cbd, cbd oil benefits, cbd vape juice, cbd vape oil, cbd oil legal, buy cbd oil, oil pen, cbd benefits, what is cbd oil, hemp, what is cbd

Dear Diary Entry 01 | You Are Not For Everyone, And That is Your Superpower

These past few weeks, I've been thinking about the direction my content is taking, and I want to bring it back to me being able to express myself more. Writing is such a therapeutic outlet for me. I feel like certain platforms are not very suitable for sharing many of the deep thoughts and conversations I want to be having. This is where my blog comes into play. I want it to be a space where I can share myself in full transparency and be able to talk about things that are important to me on a more personal note.

I get the question a lot about what I "do", and in all honesty, this is a very complicated question for me to answer because I am not a cookie-cutter personality that can be perfectly packaged. I have accepted the fact that I do not fit a certain type of mold that is easily digestible. I accept the fact that I am not for everyone and that some people may not have the time or patience to understand me or what I have to offer.

With that said, I am creating a brand that is my own and not forcing myself into a niche or category that limits me and makes me feel trapped. Today, it is easy to listen to advice that says that you have to do this, that, and the other to succeed. I need to put one fact out there into the universe: I was never one to follow the rules or do what everyone else is doing. I do what I want and how I want to do it. I do not believe in limiting myself or allowing other's opinions to drive my creativity. I truly operate from my heart, and when I feel like I am veering away from that, it genuinely hurts me.

If you look all around in today's creative community, you'll see that everyone is able to carve out a space for themselves that is uniquely theirs. That is happening today, and that is the climate of the future. Everyone is their own brand. Everyone has something valuable to offer by simply being themselves. I see that authenticity and vulnerability is at the core of all of this. In that same token, it is realizing that you will not be for everyone, and that is ok. The people that do connect with you will truly be for you, trust in you and your work, understand what you have to say, and want to support you naturally because they have a genuine connection with you. It's important to never compromise your value to please someone else when they have expectations that go against the very fabric of who you are.

I came across a video last night by Brendon Burchard, and it is a message that I'd like to share with you as well. It was on the topic of what to do when people don't support you. Basically, anyone's opinions, criticisms, and judgments are none of your business. People are not required to do anything for you, just as you're not required to do anything for them. There is a common exchange that happens when, oftentimes, we take what people say or do, and we use that to influence the direction of our thoughts and actions. That is completely unhealthy to do. Instead, we need to be focusing on our goals, aspirations, and dreams and putting energy toward that - not what anyone has to say in response to it. Not everyone is going to understand us, and it is not our job to explain ourselves to people who are committed to misunderstanding us.

I hope this maybe sheds some light for you if you are a creative or just someone who is feeling discouraged. Truly, no one has that power over you, so don't feel so pressured to do anything that you are not comfortable with. You are a respectable person with integrity by choosing to stand your ground. We are more than what we do, and at the end of the day, we have the choice of what direction we want to take whether or not anyone agrees with it.

What are your thoughts and experiences on these topics? I'd really love to hear your story and how you've dealt with these things. It would really help me, and I'm sure many others.

hellolovelyliving.com | Dear Diary Entry 01 | You Are Not For Everyone, And That is Your Superpower

I hope that you enjoyed that little diary entry. In this series, I want to really be open to discussing any topic that I feel is on my mind. It's a way to open the communication for us to not feel alone about things that are often hidden and that are too taboo to talk about on a perfectly curated feed. If you have any topics or things you'd like me to touch on, do feel free to post those in the comment section below. This is a space where we can talk about real topics that impact us and is a safe zone to share things without judgment.

Before I end this post, I'd like to share a little bit about my glasses that I'm wearing in these photos! What do you think of them? Personally, I am absolutely obsessed with them and haven't taken them off since haha! Actually, before I get into how much I love them, I wanted to share a little side-note with you. The truth behind these photos that you see here is that I just had one of those moments where I just needed to breathe and get away and have a moment to process everything that's been going on in my life right now. These were candid moments where I was literally at the end of my rope, and I didn't know how to make myself feel better other than get into an empty room and have a minute to myself.

Honestly, it really helped to just get away for a moment (even if that was just to my bathroom) haha! I know other moms do this! It's really so important to set aside time for yourself so that you can process things in a healthy way. Anyway, back to the glasses! I chose a tortoiseshell frame because I have always wanted to own a pair. These are from Glasses Gallery, and I actually had several choices, but this is the one I settled on. It is from a brand called Evisu, which is a Japanese brand. One thing that I loved about Glasses Gallery is that they have a virtual try-on feature, kinda like a Snapchat or Instagram filter! It was so fun trying out some of the glasses. Uriah also got in on the fun as you can see below!

via GIPHY

Can you believe that these frames are only $95. Of course, prescription lenses added onto that price, but I think this is so worth it because they offer designer glasses that are so affordable. They are actually currently having a promotion for free prescription lenses on select frames for $95, so do check it out. It did take a little over a week for me to receive my glasses because they did ship from Hong Kong and USPS was late a couple days, but I am very pleased with them, so it was worth the wait. I am so glad that they match my face shape and that they fit so well because I had never physically tried them on, so I was a bit worried that I may not like them. It really did help that they had that try-on filter because it eliminated me having to wait for frames to try on, return those, then wait again for a pair that I decided on. In actuality, this process is a lot quicker in that sense.

I highly recommend Glasses Gallery if you are looking for an online retailer that offers designer eyeglasses, sunglasses, and sports glasses at affordable prices. You're sure to find something that you like. I was impressed because they have brands like Marc Jacobs, Ray-Ban, and Jimmy Choo along with various others for any look or budget. I personally am not into designer brands, which is why I strictly went on look alone, but I did appreciate that they did have such a great selection for me to choose from.

Okay, I think that's it for this post! Don't forget to share your thoughts in the comments below, and I look forward to another Dear Diary very soon. xo

what topics do you want to hear about in my next dear diary?

A special thank you to Glasses Gallery for partnering with me on this post. Be sure to check them out for all things glasses!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my privacy policy for a complete disclosure.

The Never-Ending Weekend

I am a firm believer in gaining freedom over your life. Society has the ability to pressure us into believing that there is a certain way to do things, and to ultimately live. In this short post, I want to inspire you to get out of your routine and set your weekends on your own terms.

I remember when I was working over 120 hours every two weeks at my full-time day job. I was so exhausted. It took a huge toll on me mentally and physically. I literally did not have any time for myself. A part of me was screaming inside, wanting to end the cycle and regain control over my life.

This is why, today, I feel so passionately about spreading the message of living life on your own terms and creating the life you want and pursuing work that you love. It's not even about the money for me because freedom, to me, is priceless.

No one has the luxury to change things overnight, which is why I always encourage people to start out small. What if I told you that the first thing you had to do was change your mentality? Well, if there were one piece of advice that would lead you on that path toward independence, that is exactly the first thing I would tell you. It sounds simple, but it simply isn't.

Changing your mentality is something that could take years to accomplish, so let's start out small. Let's carve out days during the week where you feel like you are rebelling against the "norm". Instead of waiting until the weekend to do things that you love to do, why not try to incorporate those activities into your weekly schedule?

I am going to be sharing three ways of how I create a never-ending weekend in my daily life or how I carry my weekend into the work week. What may seem a joyous activity to me, may not be the same for you, so I would like you to start thinking about what makes you happy and use this as inspiration.

How

I create my never-ending weekend

Working at my passion

Believe it or not, I love working on the weekends, which is why I put less pressure on myself during the week and just see every day as an opportunity to pursue what makes me happy. A lot of us wait until the weekends to do what we love, which is why I believe we should be carrying that into the week. Don't wait until the weekend to pursue your side-hustle or something that you're curious about pursuing or learning about. Get at it during the week, even if you have to stay up late or set aside a few hours toward it. It will all add up, so don't think that your efforts are too small to see any results.

Doing spontaneous activities

If you follow me anywhere on social media, you'll know that the beach is one of my most favorite places to be. With that being said, I actually like to go to the beach during the week because it is a lot less busy, and I feel like I am taking a mini-vacation. When you do things that you would ordinarily reserve for the weekend, It feels so freeing and liberating, kinda like when you wear a bra that feels like it's not even there, am I right?! It makes me feel so grateful for the life that I live despite the challenges I face and makes me appreciate the day so much more, which fuels me to continue on this path. I also love to explore Los Angeles or Orange County whenever I feel like I'm craving a new experience. Not only does it expose me to different things that I wouldn't normally have done, it inspires me to keep creating even more new experiences.

Enjoying my favorite foods and drinks

I don't know about you, but food and drinks can make me so happy and get me excited about my day. I take special care to think about what it is that I could eat or drink that would make me happy. Instead of having pancakes only on the weekends, I literally will have it every day if that's what I feel would make me happy. I can be a little extreme when it comes to food, so if I feel like eating something, in particular, I don't care how long it will take me to make it; I make it! It feels so great to listen to your body and feed it what it wants no matter what day of the week it is.

So, ladies and gents, that is my never-ending weekend. I know, I'm a rebel. Nothing new to see here haha. I mix work with play, do spontaneous activities, and eat whatever I want! Sounds like a good plan, 'ey? I hope you enjoyed this! I am all for supporting companies that share the same philosophy as me such as helping women feel empowered. True & Co. strives to create products that empower women to embrace comfort and luxury every day of the week.

What does your never-ending weekend look like?

A special thank you to True&Co for partnering with me on this post. Be sure to check them out for more ways to mix comfort + luxury into your life!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my privacy policy for a complete disclosure.

wellness, lifestyleStina XJuly 6, 2018weekend, inspiration, summer, los angeles

How to Create Free Online Event Flyers & Invitations in Less Than 5 Minutes

Today, I’ll be sharing the fastest, most cost-effective and efficient way to send out flyers and invitations via text, email, or social media. I just discovered this new, free feature, and I’m sharing it in case you’re also needing to send invitations and get responses on the fly! I was able to put together a virtual giveaway party in less than five minutes! I’m just going to jump into how I did it.

What you will need to do first is head on over to Paperless Post. Their Flyer feature allows you to create flyers that you can send out digitally - for free! Not only that, but their templates are beautiful, easy to customize, and you’ll be able to manage all of your RSVPs on your account. Simply sign up for an account and all of the free features will be available to you.

After I customized my flyer on the site, I simply copied and pasted the share url into my email template through Mailchimp and sent it off to all of my email subscribers. You may have gotten that email if you are on my email list!

I made a short video showing you exactly how to create one of your own, and you'll also get to see how my flyer turned out.

Now, wasn't that the easiest thing EVER! I am so excited about this. It saved me so much time, and come to think of it, this could be used for any type of event - both business or personal. Below is how my flyer looked on screen, minus the gif feature. You can also view it live, here.

Speaking of which, I have a winner to announce! The winner of my first-ever giveaway party is Taylor!! I will be contacting you via email. Congratulations on winning a branding package, which includes a custom logo and brand style board. Super excited for you, and I can't wait to chat with you. Everyone else who RSVP'd will be receiving an email from me with a special package rate, so look out for that!

what do you think about Paperless Post's new feature?

A special thank you to Paperless Post for partnering with me on this post. Be sure to check them out for even more paperless options!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my privacy policy for a complete disclosure.

lifestyleStina XJune 28, 2018business, wedding, event, diy, diy invitations, diy flyers

Photo Diary: My Stay At Ours Los Angeles

Hello Lovely Living | Design For A Better Sleep

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wellnessStina XMay 28, 2018sleep, design, los angeles, airbnb, tuck, bedroom, minimal, modern

What You Need to Know About Moisturizers

Today, I'm back with a much-anticipated post after a long hiatus, and we're talking skin! One thing I can tell you about my skincare journey is that it has taken a very long time for me to understand my skin and how to best care for it. The good thing is, I love skincare - learning about what works and what doesn't and trying new things, so I enjoy the challenge. It's very important to learn about your skin's individual personality - YES, our skin has a personality ... HAHA ... and mood swings! Once you know what your skin's needs are, you will be better prepared to select the right products and achieve the results you want. Moisturizers have got to be one of the most crucial steps in a skincare routine, so that's what we're covering today. Read on to learn the basics!

Murad Nutrient-Charged Water Gel

Your facial skin is subjected to environmental forces every day, many of which can cause it harm. Sun, wind, heat, dryness, cold, and pollution impact your skin constantly, and all of these can have a damaging effect upon it. The effects of these will be most apparent on those who have dry or sensitive skin, but those with oily skin will also find their skin deteriorating in time. Damage to the facial skin will not only cause irritated, dry skin, but will also contribute to the formation of wrinkles. The upper layer of the skin - the epidermis - is a very thin and fragile shield against the world, and damage to the epidermis can result in damage to the dermis below it. Using a moisturizer suitable to your skin type is an excellent way to provide more protection for your skin. Moisturizers help to keep your skin softer and less prone to wrinkling.

How

Moisturizers Work

Moisturizers work most basically by helping to seal the skin using what are referred to as occlusives to prevent moisture loss, however, most of these products usually contain other
ingredients that help to make the skin and complexion look fresher and younger.

Emoliants

Emollients are ingredients in moisturizers that are made up of fats, and these work to nourish the skin so that it looks smoother. Emollients help to fill in small cracks in the

skin, as well.

Humectants

Humectants (a substance, especially a skin lotion or a food additive, used to reduce the loss of moisture) are important in maintaining skin moisture because they help to pull water from the lower layers of the skin to the top to help hydrate the outer layers.

Moisturizers

for Every Skin Type

An important thing to keep in mind when choosing a moisturizer is to choose the correct one for your skin type. A moisturizer designed for dry skin could cause problems for someone who has oily or acne-prone skin. Moisturizers are available as creams, ointments, and lotions.

Dry skin

Dry skin really cries out for the use of a moisturizer. Those with dry skin have sebaceous glands that do not produce an adequate amount of sebum to keep the skin properly hydrated. Dry skin is very likely to develop wrinkles, and for those with this skin type, generally a moisturizing ointment or cream will be the best solution. Look for a product that contains oils, and if your face is severely dry, use a moisturizer that contains petroleum jelly. Moisturizers that contain glycerin also can help to nourish dry skin.

Oily Skin

Oily skin actually can benefit from a moisturizer, although it might seem to be counterintuitive at first glance. However, washing your face removes most of the oil there, and can lead to patches of skin that will be too dry. Rather than using a cream or ointment, which might cause an outbreak of acne, try using a water-based lotion. If acne is a problem, you can discover more here for some help with this skin condition.

Mature Skin

Mature skin definitely needs a moisturizer. As we move into our 30s and 40s, regardless of our skin type, our skin will begin to dry out. This is a time when wrinkles begin to form and become established. Existing wrinkles will deepen. In most cases, acne will not be a serious problem, so an oil based moisturizer is the choice here. Look for a moisturizer that contains antioxidants such as Vitamins A and E.

Normal Skin

Normal skin is one that is perfectly balanced. This skin type is the one least likely to experience problems, but keeping normal skin normal is important, which is why those with normal skin should use a moisturizer regularly. Normal skin benefits from a moisturizer that is water based, such as a lotion or light cream.

Combination Skin

As always, combination skin can be the most difficult to moisturize properly. What might be too oily for one spot, such as the nose and forehead, might not provide enough protection for another spot, like the cheeks. For those with combination skin, a neutral lotion will probably work best, and you can always use a second moisturizer if you notice your cheeks drying out too much.

Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin can be almost as difficult to moisturize as combination skin, simply because it will have a tendency to react badly with more moisturizer ingredients. Sensitive skin is much more likely to be irritated by perfumes, acids, or dyes; any of these can cause an allergic reaction such as a rash. Those with sensitive skin should look for a moisturizer that contains ingredients that will be kind to the skin and less likely to irritate it. Natural ingredients often provide gentler moisturizing.

Once you have found the right moisturizer for your skin type, be sure to apply it right after you wash your face. Leave your face somewhat moist, rather than dry it completely after washing, so that the moisturizer has a better chance to be absorbed.

I have currently been enjoying Murad's Nutrient-Charged Water Gel. It is very light and absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving it feeling greasy or sticky. Since my skin tends to be on the dry side, I like to lather moisturizer on with a vitamin e serum as well. The one I've been using for a while now is the JASON Maximum Strength Vitamin E 45,000 I.U. Skin Oil. It really works so well to retain moisture and provide that added level of protection against drying.

What moisturizers are you currently using and loving? Let me know in the comments!

A special thank you to facingacne.com for partnering with me on this post. Be sure to check them out for all-things skin!

This post may contain affiliate links.

wellnessStina XApril 20, 2018wellness

New Digital Print - Eat, Pray, Buy Plants + How To Print & Frame With Minted

Hello Lovely Living | Eat Pray Buy Plants Digital Print

Hey there pretty, new print! If you haven't noticed, plants are life! On my recent trip to Dallas, I had a chance to visit Ruibal's Plants of Texas, and let me tell you, a girl went wild in there. I saw so many plants that I've been dying to own.

Although I could've easily walked away with 20 plants, I was so sad to walk away with zero of them. I had to restrain myself because I'm on a plant-buying freeze.

For one, I have too many right now, and secondly, I am moving soon, so I wouldn't want to put them through any undue stress. Super-pout status, but you know a girl's going to go all out once it's all said and done. There's no holding me back! In the meantime, I'll be staring at this new print because it is giving me life right now.

In this post, I wanted to quickly share a really simple and easy printing and framing option that I swear by - Minted. If you haven't heard of Minted yet, girrrrl, let me fill you in. It's the number one online marketplace for independent artists, and they sell everything from fine art prints to wedding invitations and home decor. They have it ALL.

Here's the step by step process for printing custom prints with Minted.

How To

Print & frame Hello Lovely digital Prints with Minted

Step 1

Select your digital print. Add to cart. Your digital file will be available for instant download upon purchase. Save file.

Step 2

Go to the Minted website.

lifestyleStina XJanuary 2, 2018

Summer Summer Summertime … Is Over

I'm back with a new post! It's only been a couple months, but hey, life happens, right! Did you miss me? I've been going through a bunch of huge changes in my life all at once, so it's a little chaotic over here, but I can't wait to tell you all about it in the near future! This summer will go down in the books as one of the most memorable summers of all time. I'll fill you in on all of the details later!

In the meantime, I'm doing something a bit different and sharing some of my summer looks that I have been enjoying and currently transitioning into fall. It's already officially fall, but you know what, it was 96 degrees today in Oklahoma. I mean! Well, that's Oklahoma for ya, so there's that! Can we all agree that summer just can't end!!! It just can't. *bawls eyes out* Anywho (I've used this word since I was in grade school and it has never left me haha), I hope you enjoy this little photo montage.

First and foremost, I want to give a special thanks to Tobi for collaborating with me on this post and for sending me such cute pieces that I personally picked out and have been obsessing over since. Last but not least, a shoutout to Ekin from Enn Photography who did a lovely job at capturing me in these looks in Oklahoma City.

JANICE MEDIUM WASH LOW RISE DISTRESSED SHORT DENIM SKIRT | Tobi

Olive Utility Jacket | H&M (out of season)

Backstory: I've literally passed this dreamy white building with the prettiest flower bush and rustic door a million times and have been wanting to shoot something here. Well, my dreams were realized - FINALLY - and I am so so happy! I will die a happy soul. The end. Haha.

TAKE MY EYES OFF BLACK DENIM DISTRESSED SHORTS | Tobi

Rust Distressed Sweater -

Fashionova (out of season)

Women's Originals Superstar Shoes | Adidas

Backstory: I am obsessed with wood textures. Anything wood! Hence, the wood background and concrete accents. If you can tell me which spot this is in Oklahoma City, I will personally shout you out on Instagram. Not that you'd want that or care, but you're welcome. Haha.

JACKIE RUST RIB KNIT BODYCON DRESS | Tobi

Choker | Gypsie Gems by

Cheyenne Nguyen

Backstory: Here's another spot that I've always been obsessed with. Not only that it's the side of a Whole Foods building, which makes it even cooler, but I'm crazy about grass and vines, so this is a big deal, guys. Huge deal! Okay, I'll stop with being weird now. Haha.

Can you really ever get enough of ripped or distressed denim? I think not. At least, I can't! Definitely check out the Tobi pieces that I linked because most are currently on sale! I hope you enjoyed this short and sweet post. I am very much looking forward to writing more blog posts in the near future (once life slows down a little bit). If you want to catch me on a more frequent basis, follow me on Instagram, and we'll make that happen!

lifestyleStina XSeptember 22, 2017summer, summer fashion

DIY Exfoliating Body Bars

I'm all about these exfoliating body bars lately, and since my recipe makes a ton of them, I'm not running out anytime soon! Truth be told, this recipe was born from a failed attempt at making bubble bars, which I'm not complaining about! I absolutely love these. Read on for the full DIY recipe, and get you some smooth skin!

By far, the best part about these exfoliating bath bars is making them! It's so therapeutic making your own skincare products. I mean, it's like baking, but better. Why? Because you don't have to worry about messing up and getting everything exact! It's all about experimenting and having fun.

When you make your own skincare, it takes you back to the basics and allows you to create something for you. We've got to remember that skincare is very personal, so put your heart into it and make it specific to your needs.

For this recipe, I totally was flexible with the ingredients that I used. I didn't freak out that I didn't have certain ingredients. I just used what I had on hand. That's what I recommend you do, too! I've been researching ingredients for a while now and their skincare benefits, so it's easy for me to look into my cabinet and find what I want for a specific result that I want. I suggest you get into researching natural ingredients and their benefits online and incorporate and experiment with them in your skincare routine.

The purpose of these exfoliation bars is to exfoliate the areas of the body that get neglected. Real talk: I'm mainly talking about the crevices of the body where the sun don't shine! Armpits/underarms, inner thighs, bikini area, inner elbows, inner knees. It can also be used on any other parts of the body where you want to stimulate new skin cell production and turnover. I also have used them on areas where I have stretch marks to do just that. These exfoliating bars really smooth the skin in a way that normal cleansing can't.

The areas that I had mentioned earlier are generally prone to hyperpigmentation AKA discoloration and buildup of melanin. This can all be prevented or reversed with regular exfoliation and proper cleansing of the areas. Buildup can come in the form of dead skin, oil, dirt, and product buildup (as is the case with deodorant), so frequently taking an exfoliating bar to the skin is going to help to remove all of that junk and keep it youthful and bright. I keep one in the shower at all times and use it during every shower.

So, let's get into the recipe! I used baking soda and rice flour for their exfoliating properties. Rice flour has an amazing array of skin benefits, which you can read about here. It's one of my favorite ingredients to use. I also used glycerine, which is really good for moisturizing the skin and is very important for these particular areas that are prone to being dry. Castille soap is a natural soap that will cleanse the area without adding buildup to achieve a squeaky clean. Rosehip oil is another amazing ingredient for combatting hyperpigmentation. Then, there's matcha. I added that in just for the fun of it, but it also has anti-aging properties, which is always a good idea! I sprinkled in some rose petals as well, then topped each with some almonds mainly for the pretty-factor, but they both add to that exfoliation.

Like I said, you can get creative with the ingredients you add in as far as oils and herbs. Next time, I think I will be adding in licorice root. You can read up more about licorice root here.

DIY

Exfoliating Body Bars

INGREDIENTS

2.5 cups baking soda
1/3 + 1/2 cups rice flour
1/3 cup glycerine
1/2 cup castille soap
1 Tbsp rosehip oil
4 tsp matcha powder
Toppings: rose petals + slivered almonds

Yield: 18-20 3" x 1" rounds

INSTRUCTIONS

In a large bowl, mix all dry ingredients together first - baking soda, rice flour, and matcha powder. Then, in a separate bowl, mix all of the wet ingredients together - glycerine, castille soap, rosehip oil.

Slowly add the wet mixture into the dry mixture, mixing in between until a dough starts to form. You will have to kneed the mixture, which is basically the best part! Once it comes together, sprinkle in rose petals, then roll it out into a 3" log on parchment paper.

Cut into 1" rounds and press slivered almonds onto each piece. Set on parchment paper to dry for 24-48 hours or until completely dry. Place them in a covered container.

To use, simply use on wet skin to exfoliate the area. Apply in circular motions until desired exfoliation is achieved, then rinse off.

Will you be trying this recipe? I'd love to hear about your experience, so do come back and let me know how it works for you!

*I have linked products for your convenience, which may include affiliate links.

wellnessStina XAugust 4, 2017DIY, hyperpigmentation, natural whitening, bath, rosehip oil, matcha, natural alternatives, vegan, wellness, natural, natural soap, keep it natural, modern mama

DIY Turmeric Skin Lightening Mask

I can not stress how important it is to take care of your skin while you are young! To all of my younger readers out there, you have a leg up on us #oldies. If I could somehow scold my younger self, I would. I so, so would. But, then again, all this plethora of information that is available online wasn't available when I was a teen, so I can't be too harsh on my younger, naive self. Now that I'm in my 30's I'm doing everything I possibly can to educate myself about my skin and to care for it better and smarter.

With that said, I hope you take advantage of this DIY Turmeric Skin Lightening Mask that I've been using lately. I like to switch things up in my skincare routine so that I stay excited. Trust, I get bored of my skincare regimen all. the. time. This is why it's so important for me to experiment with new ingredients and keep things fresh! Enjoy this, pretties!

HELLOLOVELYLIVING.COM | DIY Turmeric Skin Lightening Mask

Okay, so if you haven't heard about the skincare benefits of rice flour, then first head on over to my previous post on the topic right here. It's one of the skin lightening ingredients I swear by and is in this very recipe.

Let me first clarify, by skin lightening, I am not talking about changing the color of your skin. I am specifically talking about reducing hyperpigmentation caused by acne, scarring, or just in general. Having light skin, I am prone to hyperpigmentation. However, regardless of skin color, we all are prone to hyperpigmentation in some shape or form, which is basically an overproduction of melanin in the skin.

If you suffer from hyperpigmentation, whether that be on your face or other areas of your body - be it your underarms, bikini area, thighs, knees, elbows, neck, etc., natural skin lightening remedies are available to you and are highly effective.

In my research, I have found so many amazing ingredients that work well for hyperpigmentation. I will briefly touch on the ones that are used in this recipe.

HELLOLOVELYLIVING.COM | DIY Turmeric Skin Lightening Mask | Lemon Benefits

x Lemon

Lemon contains citric acid, which is a form of AHA or Alpha Hydroxy Acid making it a highly effective skin bleaching agent. Lemon promotes the turnover of new skin cells and allows the dead skin cells from the surface of the skin to - in essence - melt away. You can imagine how effective this can be for repairing damaged skin. AHAs are well known for their use in cosmetics, so why not just squeeze some natural, unprocessed lemon juice and get the same results without all of the added chemical-junk.

HELLOLOVELYLIVING.COM | DIY Turmeric Skin Lightening Mask | Turmeric Benefits

x Turmeric

Turmeric is one of those ingredients that you can't help but fall in love with. It is SO good - and I mean that. Not only is it good from the inside out, it's good from the outside in. It can be used both in cooking and in topical applications. Why is it so beneficial? To put it simply, turmeric contains individual phytonutrients that have effective skin lightening properties. In particular, turmeric is well-know for its phytonutrient, cucurmin, which is distinguished by its bright, yellow-orange color. Curcumin blocks the formation of free radicals and melanin production and inhibits tyrosinase, which is involved in producing the melanin pigment. It is basically a powerhouse of antioxidants, so your skin is going to drink that stuff up and love it.

HELLOLOVELYLIVING.COM | DIY Turmeric Skin Lightening Mask | Rice Flour Benefits

x Rice flour

As I mentioned previously, I did an extensive post on the benefits of rice flour, so head on over to this post! Rice flour is honestly a miracle ingredient and just something you need to be using if you want to instantly reveal a brighter complexion. I'm speaking from experience!

x licorice root

So, a favorite pastime of mine is Googling random herbs + skin and seeing what pops up on the topic. Almost 100% of the time, I will learn some amazing skincare secret that I never knew about. Licorice root was one of those ingredients!

I discovered that when ingested, licorice root powder has the power to lower testosterone and massively inhibit androgen stimulation of the sebaceous glands, with the result being less oily skin and clogged pores. I won't dive into it in detail, but here's a very interesting video on the topic that really opened my eyes about it. I initially started taking licorice root for its ability to regulate my hormonal acne, then I discovered that it was more beneficial when applied topically.

Licorice root has amazing skin lightening properties due to its ability to also inhibit tyrosinase or melanin formation like turmeric. It is considered to contain some of the most potent skin lightening properties available in a plant. One compound, liquiritin, acts directly on melanin to disperse and remove it. Licorice root also has been shown to protect against UV radiation. Here's a more detailed article about licorice root and it's skin benefits.

HELLOLOVELYLIVING.COM | DIY Turmeric Skin Lightening Mask | Ingredients

DIY

TURMERIC SKIN LIGHTENING MASK

INGREDIENTS

1 tsp turmeric
1 Tbsp rice flour
3 capsules licorice root powder
Juice of half a lemon

INSTRUCTIONS

Mix all ingredients together to form a paste. Apply to the area you want to treat and then let it sit for 15 minutes or until dry. Gently rinse and exfoliate off with a sponge (this is the sponge I use) and warm water. If there is a yellow tint still remaining on your skin, remove with a toner on a cotton pad (I use witch hazel).

Will you be trying this skin lightening mask? I'd love to hear about your experience, so do come back and let me know how it works for you!

wellnessStina XJune 22, 2017health, natural alternatives, hyperpigmentation, benefits of lemon, easy, natural, natural whitening, quickly, neck, inner thighs, lemon

Spring is here - Experiencing The Fullness of Every Moment + Jord giveaway

HelloLovelyLiving.com | Jord Wood Watches | Stina is wearing Fieldcrest in Maple

Life is just a bunch of moments packed all into one. At least, that's how I like to see it. At the end of the day, it's all about those tiny moments and being fully present in them to allow us to feel every emotion that they bring us. Now, I know that's not always easy to do, so I wanted to share one way that has helped me soak up each moment more fully. As the seasons come and go, it's easy to want to rush time and jump into the next season right away. Being conscious of this and learning to be more present in the current season is so important.

So, what is it? What do I do to experience the fulness of every moment? Observe. That's it. Think of yourself as an onlooker, experiencing each moment from the outside looking in. Quiet yourself, and let your senses soak up the experience, taking note of how you feel at that very moment. Learning to fully experience how each moment made you feel is so much more powerful and memorable. Once you begin to do this more often, you'll feel gratitude for every moment, and you'll also experience life in a deeper way.

Trust me, you will look at things so much more different if you are intentional in your observations. Ask yourself, how do I feel right now? What do I want to remember about this moment? I have found that what makes life so beautiful is being able to stop and being able to fully embrace how I feel in the moment. For example, when my kids bring me joy, I really do stop and try to feel every single piece of joy that that moment brings me. I know it won't last forever, so I want to enjoy it, fully.

While we're talking about experiencing the fulness of every moment, I wanted to share a brand that I am personally loving and whose philosophy ties in with what I touched on above. I'm all about supporting companies who are not just selling a product, but who really care about the experience and how their product makes me feel.

If you know me, you know I love nature. You also probably know that I am crazy about being out in nature, and, well, taking a zillion + 1 photos in nature. If I could take a piece of nature around with me at all times, I so would. No second-thoughts about it. To my very amazement, JORD Wood Watches came into my life and made that a reality.

Let me begin by saying, I am a tough sell when it comes to watches. Reason being, I don't normally wear watches, and I don't necessarily care for watches. The last watch I wore held sentimental value to me because it was a gift from my mom. After it broke, I never replaced it. Translation: I keep and wear things that hold sentimental value to me, and I will not replace it unless it breaks, and even then, I don't go looking to replace it right away. So, owning a watch again was a huge deal for me.

Jord

Wood Watches

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TWITTER

The thing that sold me on a JORD timepiece was the idea of combining something modern with something organic and timeless. After all, watches should be just that - a piece that will last you many, many years and be a representation of you.

After many years of going "watch-less", I decided that JORD would be my watch of choice. It's because I felt like it would be a type of reflection of me, in a watch. I would be able to carry a piece of nature with me wherever I go, and by wearing it, I can also stand behind a company whose values are aligned with some of the things I feel strongly about such as sustainability and experiential living.

When I first visited the JORD website, I was amazed at how many wood finishes they had available - 13 to be exact. I browsed around and selected my favorite styles, one of which was one of their men's watches. Here's the one I was eyeing. Since many of their styles are unisex, it still would have been perfect, but I chose to go with something a little more me. I chose the Fieldcrest series in Maple. I love the simplicity and minimalist vibe it has going on.

HelloLovelyLiving.com | Jord Wood Watches | Fieldcrest in Maple

Okay, did you just see how pretty it is! I love the light, airy color of the wood. It legit matches my desk, not even kidding! See it here. That's how much I've been loving light, raw wood finishes.

When I opened up my package, I was greeted with a beautiful wooden box with a magnetic lid. Upon removing the lid, the watch rested on a jute pillow, and once I set my sights on it, I was blown away at how gorgeous it was. The finish was exactly as I envisioned, and it was perfect. By far, the most beautiful presentation I've yet to experience with a watch company. It's nice to know that such care and attention to detail also went into the packaging because I'm all about the details.

The fitting of my watch was perfect, and I truly feel like I'm wearing a piece of luxury - natural luxury. It's just so beautifully crafted and made for me in every sense. The face of the watch features scratch-resistant mineral glass, and the buckle has a push button, making it actually fun and easy to remove. Let's be honest, I always hated how hard it was to remove watches! It's also interesting to know that the wood is finished and pretreated with tung oils, and if I ever need to clean it, I can use lemon or orange oil extract. Au naturale, just how I like it.

Needless to say, I was very impressed with the presentation of the watch, the quality, and craftsmanship, the look, and how it makes me feel when I wear it. Everything. I can't say enough good things about my JORD Wood Watch, so I wanted to share a little bit of the love with you all by hosting a giveaway for those of you that are interested in getting in on a piece of the action. So, here it is!

JORD x Hello Lovely Living

Giveaway

Click Here To Enter To Win a $100 JORD Gift Code >

All entrants will receive a $25 consolation code once the giveaway ends.

Open internationally. Giveaway ends on 4/23/17 at 11:59 pm CT.

I hope you enjoyed this post and that it offered a little bit of inspiration on how you can live out each moment more intentionally. For even more, catch me over on Instagram where I post on the daily! Keep on the lookout for more exciting giveaways like this in the future!

How do you experience the fulness of every moment? I'd love to hear about it in the comments below!

Disclosure: JORD reached out to me for this post and was so kind to send me a watch for honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions are purely mine.

lifestyleStina XApril 10, 2017watch, women's watch, unique watch, wood watch, men's watch, cool watch, minimal watch, maple wood watch, modern watch, eco gifts, eco fashion, eco-fashion, eco clothing, minimal, slow fashion

DIY | Minimalist Blush Pink + Foil Nails

Have you seen minimalist nail designs yet? A quick search on Pinterest, and your eyes will thank me. I've been gravitating toward them lately and decided to recreate a look that is so simple, yet so classy. Read on for more details!

I always do my nails at home and love gel nails, so I've been using the Sensational Gel Kit for a while now. Since there are usually limited colors available, I switched to using the polish to gel transformer so that I can use any nail polish that I want. It's really simple and easy to use, and I get salon-quality results at home while saving so much money. I've linked some of the products that I use at the end of this post for your convenience.

You will need to purchase the kit at first because it does come with the LED light and other essentials that you will need for each application. After that, all you have to worry about repurchasing is the polish to gel transformer when you run out + any of the other items in the kit, which is a minimal expense. For a more detailed description of the Sensationail Gel Kit, click here to read my first impression review.

For this nail design, I used deco foil, which is basically foil that can be transferred to different surfaces. Here's the one I purchased. All I did was cut a strip of it and stick it to my nails, rub, then remove, and it created this very antique application. I just seal it with a coat of the polish to gel transformer. I am in love with how it turned out, and I can't wait to test out other nail designs using it.

My gel nails do last for 2-3 weeks (or longer if I'm pushing it), so I have been pleased with the Sensational gel system for a long time. I honestly don't see myself really ever going to the salon any time soon! It does take me roughly 2 hours from start to finish to do my nails, which includes the removal time, filing, and all of that good stuff. However, I think it is so worth it, and I actually find it to be a therapeutic and relaxing process.

I hope you try this out! If you don't want to go with the Sensational system, you can always opt for the regular polish application, and I'm sure it would give you beautiful results as well. I just thought I'd share my process with you!

If you need more inspiration on the daily, I post every day on Instagram + keep you motivated and inspired with uplifting content. I'd love to see you over there!

Did you enjoy this post? Any questions? Let's chat in the comments below!

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Supplies

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STEP 1

mark holes + drill

STEP 2

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loop strings through wood ring + adjust placement

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cut a 12” piece of yarn + make a gathering knot

STEP 5

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AIRBNB

have you been to palm springs? what is your favorite spot?

ibotta

how it works

Step 1

Sign up + add offers

Step 2

go shopping: three ways to earn + bonuses

Send Receipt

Link Loyalty Card

Mobile In-app Purchases

Bonuses

Referral + teamwork

Step 3 get cash

Final Thoughts

Why I like Ibotta

PRO TIP

do you use cash back apps? which ones are your favorite?

is being vulnerable something that you struggle with and how? i’d love to have a discussion below.

what i learned

my main takeaways about cbd oil

CBD oil has an outrageous amount of health benefits

cbd oil is legal and safe

CBD oil will not get you high

CBD oil is made from industrial hemp and not marijuana

CBD oil has many uses and comes in different products

the conclusion

Will I be trying CBD Oil and other hemp products?

are you interested in trying hemp products?

separation anxiety in dogs

is it that serious?

Symptoms caused by separation anxiety in dogs

How can I tell if my dog suffers from separation anxiety?

general symptoms of anxiety in dogs

what are other behaviors that i should look out for?

cbd oil treatment for anxiety in dogs

how can i treat my dog that suffers from anxiety?

thoughts

does cbd oil for dogs work and is it effective?

does your dog suffer from anxiety and what are his/her symptoms?

Hemp seed oil vs CBD oil

What’s the difference?

hemp seed oil for skin

What are the benefits of hemp seed oil?

hemp skincare products

what products are available?

thoughts

will i be using hemp seed oil for skincare?

are you also shook about the many skincare benefits of hemp seed oil?

one |

what does CBD stand for? what is cbd oil?

two |

$40 off your first airbnb trip