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!

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.

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Jord

Wood Watches

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TWITTER

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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.

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!

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JORD x Hello Lovely Living 

Giveaway

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.

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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.

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.

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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!

I'm kind of obsessed with matcha. Just a little. Okay, A LOT. The fun part is adding it to every and anything sweet. In this recipe, I decided to get a little creative and come up with a raw cheesecake recipe that included some of my favorite ingredients: matcha (of course), almonds, honey, mascarpone cheese, and figs. I mean, go big or go home, right? I did just that with this recipe. Do I miss regular cheesecake? Not even. Read on for the complete recipe and for more dreamy photos.

So, what is a raw cheesecake anyway? For all of you who aren't familiar with it, it's generally made with a date-nut crust and cashew coconut-cream filling. There's absolutely no baking involved and no cheese, but you still get that creamy + fatty consistency without the guilt. Since I did still want to have some of that cheese flavor in this recipe + make it extra fancayyy, I added 4 tablespoons of mascarpone cheese. This is totally not necessary, so feel free to leave it out and just replace it with more coconut cream. But it's damn good with it. Just sayin'. You could even replace the honey and use a plant-based sweeter instead for a completely raw, vegan cheesecake.

I also decided to switch it up a little and make a fig and almond crust instead of a date-nut crust that is typical of raw cheesecakes. In my opinion, it tastes even more amazing. Feel free to break the rules with this cheesecake. Make it into what you want it to be - add the types of toppings that you love, remove what you don't. It's completely versatile, and it's food. Play with it. I chose to top mine with crushed pistachios, sliced almonds, desiccated coconut (basically coconut flakes), and a generous drizzle of honey. Can someone just stop me right now?! This is sounding way too delicious. 

What else can I say about this cheesecake so that I can stall and show you more pictures? Hmm ... It's amazing. It's damn delicious. And isn't it just pretty! Another thing I should mention is that I totally made this without having the proper tools. I only had a mini food processor, so this was truly a labor of love. I also didn't have a springform pan, so please please do yourself a favor and get one if you don't have one. It will make your life so much easier!

So, there's that, my loves. A ton of photos to get you salivating before you tackle the hard part - running to the store to get all of the ingredients to make this bad boy! Actually, this cheesecake is super simple. Just make sure to soak your cashews the night before so you're not like me, wishing I did so I could enjoy this cheesecake a lot sooner. Happy non-baking. Oh yeah, I forgot to to say that this is perfect if you hate baking or are horrible at it. Sorry, I'm done, let's get into the recipe (finally)!

Raw Matcha Cheesecake With Fig And Almond Crust

Stina Abion | Hello Lovely Living
February 18, 2017



Servings: 8 servings
Prep: 30 mins
Cook: 0 mins
Total time: 30 mins

Ingredients

Crust

• 1 cup dried figs
• 1/4 cup almond flour

Filling

• 2 cups cashews (soaked)
• 1 can coconut milk (1/2 of the cream portion only)
• 2 Tbsp coconut oil
• 4 Tbsp mascarpone cheese
• 1/2 cup raw honey
• 2 tsp matcha powder

Toppings

• pistachios (lightly chopped)
• honey
• almonds (sliced)
• desiccated coconut

Instructions

1. Cover and soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Refrigerate the coconut milk.
2. Line the bottom of an 8" x 8" springform pan with a round piece of parchment paper. To prepare the crust, using a food processor, mix the dried figs and almond flour until it comes together when pressed. Press evenly into the bottom of a springform pan. Set aside.
3. Strain the chashews. To prepare the filling, process the cashews until it starts resembling a creamy texture. Open the can of coconut milk and use half of the solid, cream portion only. Do not use the liquid portion. Add the coconut cream to the cashew mixture and mix until well combined, then add the reamining ingredients and mix until well combined and until an smooth, creamy texture has formed.
4. Pour the filling into the springform pan and spread evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours to set.
5. Remove from the freezer and release the springform pan. Place on a serving dish of choice. You may need to even out the top of the cheesecake with a spatula if it is not completely smooth.
6. Decorate with toppings around the edges: lightly crushed pistachios, sliced almonds, and a drizzle of honey. Dust lightly with desiccated coconut.

Notes

• Store in the refrigerator or freeze for longer periods.
• For a vegan option, remove mascarpone cheese and substitute with the other half of the coconut cream. Instead of honey, use a plant-based sweetener.
• Organic ingredients are preferred.

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Wasn't that just the easiest! FYI, I had a slice for breakfast and it was totally one of those moments where I had to pinch myself. I mean, cheesecake for breakfast!?! What world is this!?! Happy clean eating!

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

One of my most popular posts on Instagram was a photo of my desk situation, so I thought it would be fun to dedicate an entire post to my little creative area. Keyword: Little. I claimed a cute, albeit small spot in my living room, which has been the perfect location for getting those creative juices flowing. I mean, all I need is a desk, really - and an area for my plants. All worked out well except for one thing. My walls needed some love. Major big deal.

I'll be sharing my updated space + a huge giveaway at the end, so read on for more!

Okay, so the walls directly above my desk were bare. Zero inspiration to be found on these beige walls. I know, sad story, right! That had to change, so when Minted got in touch with me again, I was like, "Yes. Yes. And Yes!". Okay, maybe not that many yeses, but in my mind there were. I needed some pretty prints on my walls, and they are my go-to when it comes to exactly that, so it was perfect!

If you're not familiar with Minted, it's an online marketplace for independent artists from all over the world. There you can find art, stationary, decor, gifts, + more for all of those special moments and events in your life. If you truly want unique art products that you can't find anywhere else and love to support independent artists, Minted is the place to shop (speaking from experience)!

So, if you follow me on Instagram, you might know that I made a trip to Maryland in November and visited the Rawlings Conservatory & Botanical Gardens in Baltimore. Let's just say that I took a million and one photos there. Obviously. This is me we're talking about here. Haha. This was the perfect opportunity to print some of them. 

Seen above are a few of the many photos that I fell in love with from my shoot. Aren't they just gorgeous! Surprisingly, I was able to quickly decide on two photos that I wanted to make into custom prints. I also decided on my heart + hustle digital print, which is available for instant download in my shop.

Here it is - my minimal office space with my Minted custom art prints on display! Do you like it?? The Ruffled Feather print on the left is a Minted print that I already had, followed by my new custom photo print in the middle, and my heart + hustle digital print on the right. The awesome thing about Minted is that you get to choose what type of frames you want, and they have so many pretty options. 

No to mention, you can also choose from different sizes, so you really can get creative with how you want your prints to look. I chose to go with a white frame for my photo print and a speciality brass finish for my heart + hustle print. I love the look of things not looking too matchy-matchy because it adds a lot more interest.

I decided to add my other new custom photo print to my existing gallery wall in my living room to freshen it up. I chose to go with a wood frame, and I'm so obsessed over it. I also removed some older prints and instead added some small playful details that I am absolutely loving. The Joy is Sexy print is also another one of my digital prints that is available in my shop, and the brass frame is from Target. The Let's Get Lost print is from Minted as well, and the mirror is from Ikea, which I just spray painted a brass color.

If you're interested in creating custom photo art prints on Minted's website, here's exactly what to do: Search "custom prints" in the search bar, which brings you to the exact page that displays all of the available design options. Under the filter options, go to "Type", and make sure to check the "Custom Photo" box. There you will see all of the available options for custom photos. I went with a blank template where I could print my own design/photo.

Once shipped, everything is professionally packed and secured so that your prints are safe and free from the possibility of getting damaged. I am always so excited to open my prints because they always turn out so beautiful!

I'm so in love with my custom prints, and to share the love, I wanted to partner with Minted for a Valentine's Day Giveaway for all of you to have a chance to win something amazing! One winner will receive $250 in Minted credit! To enter, simply click the button below and enter your information.

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minted x hello lovely living

Giveaway

 Open to US residents. Giveaway runs from 2/1/17 - 2/8/17 11:59 pm PT.

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Here are a few last minute Minted Valentine's Day gift ideas that I think you will love!

Minimalist Quote Keepsake

Pair a favorite quote + photo for a more meaningful touch.

Petite Pairs

Pick a pair of limited-edition art prints to fit his/her personality.

From Tues 1/31 - 11:59 pm PT on Wed 2/1: receive Free standard (ground) shipping on art & gifts orders $75+ with promo code: VDAYSHIP

Order art gifts by Wednesday, 2/1 for 2/13 delivery

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I hope you enjoyed this post and that it got you inspired to add some love to your walls this year! It's actually really simple to do, and if you need any help with your next project, give me a shout! I'd love to help.

How do you make your office space an inspiring place? I'd love to hear about it in the comments below!

Disclosure: Some affiliate links were used in this post. I partnered with Minted on this post and received complimentary products. All thoughts and opinions are genuinely mine.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Creamy Thai Tea Recipe

Author: Stina Abion | Hello Lovely Living

Published October 18, 2016

Servings: 3 servings

Prep: 5 mins

Cook: 5 mins

Total time: 10 mins

Ingredients

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

Instructions

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

Notes

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

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

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

Disclusure: Affiliate links are used in this post.

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

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

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

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

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

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

by Stina Abion at Mode

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

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

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

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

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

August 1-8 | 2016

Hello Lovely Travel | Destin, Florida

Hello Lovely Travel | Hilton Anatole | Dallas, TX

Hello Lovely Plant Lady | Succulent Cuttings

Hello Lovely Inspo

Hello Lovely Travel | Hafer Park | Edmond, OK

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

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

Hello Lovely Plant Lady | Succulent Cuttings

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

Hello Lovely Living | Abstracts

Hello Lovely Travel | Destin, FL

Hello Lovely Home | Eucalyptus Arrangement

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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supplies

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

• 3 - 22 in. Hardwood Round Taper Legs

• 3 - Angled Top Plates with screws

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

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

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

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

• Minwax Polycrylic Gloss Base 8 fl oz Polyurethane

• Kilz Primer, Sealer, and Stain-Blocker Spray

• Tac Cloth

• Power Drill

• Wood putty or filler (optional)

• Sanding Respirator

• Paint Can Opener

• Something to stir paint with

• String (to measure with)

• Measuring tape

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Instructions

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

Sand

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

Prime & FILL

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

Paint

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

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

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

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

Legs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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via The House That Lars Built

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

Could I survive alone in a jungle? Probably.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out DIY Modern Plant Stand Projects Because #PlantLady

by Stina Abion at Mode

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via My White Obsession

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

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

by Stina Abion at Mode

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

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

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

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

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

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

1  |  Round Paper Lanterns* | Target

2  |  Sisal Rug* | Kohl's

3  |  Kilim Turkish Cotton Throw* | Terrain

4  |  Ivory Throw Blanket | Layla Grace

5  |  White Wire Chair* | One Kings Lane

6  |  Cactus Garden* | Overstock

7  |  Bertoia Side Chair* | Design Within Reach

8  |  Ferox Aloe | Weylandts

9  |  Whitewashed Wood Wall Mural | Burke Decor

10  |  Macrame Wall Hanging* | Urban Outfitters

11  |  Tribal Pattern Throw Pillow* | Wayfair

12 |  Boston Fern Hanging Basket* | Overstock

13  |  Pear Lantern* | Amara

14  |  Seafarer Medium Lantern* | Zinc Door

15  |  'Morocco' Pillow* | Nordstrom

16  |  Decorative Pillow Sea Foam | Etsy

17  |  Artificial potted cactus | Selfridges & Co.

 

18  |  Ink Hatch Pillow - Ink* | Casa 

19  |  Cameo Cushion Amethyst* | Houseology 

20 |  Seafarer Small Lantern* | Zinc Door

21  |  Mini Artificial Succulent* | Norsdstrom

22 |  Tealight Lantern* | Amara

23  |  Relax Rope Accent Pillow | Kirklands

24  |  Quilted White Pillow | CB2

25  |  Art Club Concept Cushion | Superette

26 |  Mini Artificial Succulent* | Norsdstrom

27 |  Two Toned Grey Cushion* | Target

28  |  Artificial potted cactus* | Selfridges

29  |  Bungalow Sofa* | Serena & Lily

30  |  Sunshine Accent Chair* | Dot & Bo

31  |  Reversible Uncover Tripod Table* | Amara

32  |  Wire Storage Table* | Luisaviaroma

33  |  Melati Hanging Chair* | Anthropologie

34  |  Macrame Hanging Planter* | Urban Outfitters

via Anne Sage

CREATING MY MOOD BOARD

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

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

via Broste Copenhagen

 

2 | PLANTS

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

via Broste Copenhagen

4 | NATURAL FINISHES + METALS

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

via Broste Copenhagen

 

 

1 | MODERN MACRAME  

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

via Mango And Salt

3 | MIX & MATCH SEATING

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

via Broste Copenhagen

5 | FINISHING TOUCHES

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

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

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

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

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

I can't get enough of home inspo on Instagram. I know I talk about Instagram waaaay too much, but it really is the place to go if you want to see what's in and what's trending in interior design - and not just the stuff found in magazines and other published media - in real homes with real people who just love designing and styling. 

Instagram is like a black hole because I could literally get lost for days scrolling through people's feeds, so I usually have to control my urge. It just amazes me how many talented creatives there are on Instagram. That's why I'm so addicted - because it opens my eyes to so much diversity in ideas and creativity, which in turn, makes me a better creative and inspires me to try something different. I've discovered my love for so many interior design styles through it, which brings me to the point of this post.

I've always been into interior design, and looking back, I can see that from early-on, I've always gravitated toward it. One of the first careers that I wanted to pursue was in interior design, and growing up, I was always the one rearranging the house and trying to convince my mom to buy home decor or paint the walls. I'm the type of person that would rather spend money on a pretty piece of home decor first than anything else I love -  and I do love my fair share of girly things like clothes, makeup, bags, and shoes, so that says a lot!

Lately, I've been feeling pulled toward simplifying my home and wanting to start from scratch. Over the years, my design tastes have drastically changed as well as what I value most in life and in my home. My husband and I have really figured out what's really important and what we want out of life in the short and long term. Quality over quantity has always been my motto, so I really want to create a space that represents that. I also want to get rid of the excess and create a cohesive design and style that I feel speaks for me and allows me to really look at my home and say, yeah, this is so me! I remember reading something to that effect in Emily Henderson's book, "Styled". If someone were to walk into your home, would they be able to gather about what type of person you are or would there be a disconnect? With a budget close to zero, starting from zilch seems like shooting myself in the foot, so here comes the why and how.

So, for my why, I really want to start applying the motto "design the life you love" to every area of my life. I also believe in adopting a minimalist lifestyle, which I plan to get into more in another post.  I desire a home that matches my tastes and that I can be inspired by and inspire others with. For so many years I'd always say, maybe someday when I own my own home, I'll do this and that, but I've realized that someday rarely ever pulls through. The only time we have is now. I want my home to represent my family and me, so that is my goal. I want it to be an inspiring place that I can be proud of even if it is just a rental. Home is where the heart is, right!

As for my how, my plan is to sell the old stuff I do have (furniture, misc. items, AKA "junk", etc.) and liquidate it into cash. The money will be used toward projects around the house where I can create a space for less by doing DIY projects and purchasing staple pieces that will go a long way toward the function of my home. The remaining cash balance will go toward debt, which is one of the main reasons I came up with this idea. I mean, why not sell everything, get cash out of it, use it to create a brand new space I actually love - for less - and then have leftover cash to put toward bills? Sounds like a no-brainer to me!

Being that I'm going for a minimalist look, I think I can pull it off. It will be a fun challenge to take on, and I'm excited just talking about it. We will be downsizing greatly and deciding what's more important by restructuring our home, not only in a financial sense but a design sense. I still can't decide exactly what style I'm going for, but I do know that I've been loving modern Scandinavian/Nordic, mid-century modern, and bohemian design. Let's hope that I can make up my mind soon.

Here are some inspiring spaces I've been adoring lately!

via 100 Layer Cake

via The Glitter Guide

via Dust Jacket Attic

via Gimmii

via Binti Home Blog

via Fjeldborg

In summary, I feel that nothing in life should make you feel like you are stuck with it, so if there's anything you want to ever change, be it as small as the color of your nails or more drastic like revamping your home, always know that you can do it. Life is all about change, and change is necessary for growth. In my case, I feel like taking this step is one of those things. What you surround yourself with, there you are, so why not make it count! Create your best life and live it as authentically you as possible. This is the journey I'm on at this point, and I am excited to share the process with you so that you can gain inspiration from it. Stay tuned for more to come in this series: Project Prettify!

What do you think? Would you be up for selling all of your furniture to create an entirely new space? I'd love to hear what you think in the comments below!

I'm so glad that it's starting to warm up here in Oklahoma City. Being stuck inside for most of the year can get pretty depressing, so Spring makes me so excited! I had the chance to revisit the Myriad Botanical Gardens with my husband and two boys the other day and it was just really nice to see all the blooms and greenery and get inspired by nature again.

The Myriad Botanical Gardens is located in the heart of the city and is directly across the Devon Energy Center - the tallest building in Oklahoma City. I just learned that the original idea of the gardens was to create a space similar to the Tivoli Gardens of Copenhagen, Denmark. How neat! I'm not sure if they accomplished that, but it's really an amazing place nonetheless.

There's also a greenhouse called the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory, which I have yet to go inside of. I always feel so inspired everytime I go to the gardens, and my phone always runs out of batteries because of all the snapping I do! It was a much needed getaway. 

As for the blog, I've finally got around to updating the site, and I am so so motivated to get back into posting more content on here. I've been MIA for about a month, so I've had a lot of ideas for the future of this site running through my head. I LOVE blogging; Life just got so hectic and it took me a while to get back to my creative space. I'm excited to feel inspired again, and I have a few things in the works.

I've been wanting to update the site for a long time and give it a more modern, minimalist, and bright aesthetic to match my changing tastes. So, I created a new logo, changed a few things, and I think I accomplished the new look, which makes me feel really inspired. There's something about changing things up that gets me energized. I've always been that way, and I really get bored of things very fast. You'll probably see a lot of rearranging here because I'm always making things feel new and fresh! I hope you like the slightly new design. Let me know if you like it!

Besides the blog remodel, I have been working on a project since last month. If you follow me on Instagram, I've posted quite a bit about my latest obsession. Why must I get obsessed with so many things all the time! I'm obsessed with getting obsessed. Ha!

So, this latest obsession is with succculents and cactus. Well, I've always been obsessed with them, but since I've been a plant-killer my whole life, I didn't have the guts to try my hand at these babies. That is until someone inspired me on Instagram to start propogating my own succulents, and it helped that my husband surprised me with my first batch of succulents shortly after.  Thanks hubs! I now have about four trays of succulent leaves that I'm propogating.

Caring for succulents has been exciting for me and so I've decided to create succulent gardens as well! I've received so much amazing feedback on Instagram, so it's really something that I want to continue sharing with you guys.

The great news is that I'll be launching a shop here on the site really soon and will be listing mini succulent gardens that you will be able to add to your cart and have shipped to you! I will also be slowly adding more things to my shop as time allows, so more will be in the works for that. If you want to stay current with what's happening, I post more frequent updates on Instagram. 

That's my quick update for now. There's so much more on my mind, but I don't want to overwhelm this post (and you). One last thing: What would you like to see more of here on Helly Lovely Living? More DIY? Home Inspo? Any specific topics? I'm all ears. I have a few things coming up that I can't wait to share with you all. I'll be back at it in a few days! Have an amazing weekend!

via Bloomingvile

I am completely and utterly obsessed with this Danish company that just hit the US market. In my latest Mode story, I'm getting a bit controversial. It may touch a soft spot for you Ikea lovers. Nonetheless, I am an Ikea lover myself, and that's exactly why I've fallen for this Scandinavian home goods company I'm about to share with you. If you're on top of the minimalist movement, you'll see what I'm talking about. Their products will make you swoon. Now if only they had a store the size of five football fields so I could spend eight hours inside. Read on for the full deets.

Check out The Danish Retailer That May Rival Ikea

by Stina Abion at Mode

Are you an Ikea addict? How many hours could you spend in their store?

via The House That Lars Built

I have not been exempt from this cactus obsession that has swept the world of DIY and crafting. I don't know what it is about transforming something real into variations of utter cuteness, but I'm not complaining. I love anything that adds life and cheer to my world, so if cactus bring any sort of joy to my life, then so be it. I welcome them with open arms in any way, shape, or form! If you're of the same accord, I gathered some cute cactus crafts that are super easy to make and oh-so-adorbs. Check them out in my latest Mode story below!

Check out Cute Cactus Crafts For the Cactus Obsessed

by Stina Abion at Mode

What is your favorite cactus craft? I'd love to hear about it in the comments below!

If you're like me and are a part of the four-eyed club, you'll be absolutely thrilled about this life-changing service I'm about to share with you. I don't know about you, but when I try on glasses, it takes me forever, and I mean, FOREVER to choose out a frame. After all, I'm going to have to wear the suckers, so I best like them, and that means hours upon hours of tirelessly trying out frame after frame. I admit, I'm not one to take purchases lightly. And I'm not just talking about big purchases - from lotion to eggs, I'm horrible at picking things out. I research and dwell on what I'm about to buy for a loooong time. I guess it's the indecisive person in me, which irritates the shiz out of my husband! Oh well, he can live with me. 

Getting to the point of this post, and not my indecisiveness, I have known about Warby Parker for quite some time but never got around to actually trying them out - until now! I've gone more than a year without glasses, so this is a big deal for me. I'm not sure if they first thought of the idea of home-try-ons, but I first heard about it from them. How does Warby Parker work? It works like this: On their site, you choose 5 frames that you want to try, add them to your cart, then they send them to you so you can try them on at home. You do have to enter a valid credit card, but that's about it. I received my box in less than a week. Once you're finished, send them back in the same box with the free return shipping label, then order your frame(s).

So what's so revolutionary about this idea, you ask? Well, it allows you to really try on your frames in the comfort of your home without someone pressuring you to hurry-up-and-buy! Take photos, share with your family and friends, and test them out on the town. At the end of it all (and if you're indecisive like myself), you'll come out of it stress-free and with frames that you truly love. Do as many home try-ons as you need before you commit to buying any.

Here are the frames that I decided to try:

I have always wanted to own tortoise frames, so I may have gone a little overboard choosing them, but I am happy with my selections. The quality of these frames is really nice, and for $95 for prescription eyeglasses, it really doesn't get any better in my opinion. Once I really sat down to take a look at how I looked in them in photos, it really made a difference. It's so much better than trying to take a mental note of how each one looked! 

I honestly love how each of them look, so this will be tough sticking to one! Mitchell and Seymour are very similar, I almost can't tell the difference, and I'm really loving the color and style of Upton! It looks so nice photographed. Warby Parker has a zillion and one amazing frames to choose from, and they're all so pretty, so you may have a hard time selecting which ones to try at first. My advice is to try something new! It can't hurt. That's what I did, and I'm so glad I did. I discovered new styles that I wouldn't normally try, and they actually look good with my face shape. If you want to know which one I went with, follow along on Instagram!

It's easy to get your 5 pairs to try on at home for free. Simply visit Warby Parker's Free Home Try-On and you'll be on your way! I also like to check for coupon codes whenever I buy stuff online, so you can see if there is any Warby Parker coupon code currently available here. I hope you enjoyed this post and found it helpful! I love when I find a service that makes life easier, especially when it comes to shopping. If you decide to do a home try-on, I'd love to see what you picked. Tag me on Instagram @hellolovelyliving. 

A special thank you to my Mom! This was her birthday gift - for me to get me a new pair of glasses! 

Which ones do you like? Let me know in the comments. I'd love to have your input!

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Disclosure: Affiliate links included in this post. I always share my honest opinions. All photos were taken by me.

Botanical Shop | Paiko Hawaii

Among the other million things I've discovered and fell in love with on Instagram are these pretty little botanical shops. They're filled with all the things I dream of - plants of all kinds, vases, pots, novelties, home and kitchen goods, plant stands, and the list goes on. I'm currently dreaming up having my own shop one day where I can fill them with everything I have come to love. Until then, the inspiration from these shops is enough to fuel me to getting there. I hope you enjoy having a look at them.

Check out Botanical Shops: So Pretty You'll Want to Live There

by Stina Abion at Mode

Have you ever been to a botanical shop like these? I'd love to hear about it in the comments below!

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Hello Lovelies! I've been wanting to make these gorgeous copper himmeli, so when I needed to create a DIY submission after being selected as a semi-finalist for The Hunt for the First-Ever Mrs. Meyer's Homemaker, I knew I just had to make these. It looks like a challenge to make, but don't let that stop you - I found it to be so fun and relaxing.

If you're not familiar with himmeli, they are hanging geometric ornaments that originate from Finland and are traditionally made from straw. The word himmeli is actually derived from the German word for heaven, himmel, which I found really interesting. I fell in love with their modern and minimalist aesthetic, and they're so visually striking and can be made to form larger, more complex geometric patterns.

I absolutely love copper, but find copper decor to be quite expensive, so I thought this would be the perfect way for me to finally get my hands on a copper piece without the high price tag.  All of the supplies are easily accessible and really affordable. I believe I spent less than $40 for all of the supplies to make two, so you should definitely consider making these instead of purchashing them. It's also so much more rewarding to make your own things to appreciate. Let's get started with this DIY!

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Materials & Tools

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• Copper tube ¼” diameter, 20 ft 
• Copper wire 22 gauge, 25 ft
• Junior tube cutter for cutting copper
• 2 - Repurposed ceramic bowls
• 2 - Small plants
• Ruler
• Scissors
• Marker  

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For hanging:

• 2 - Swag hooks (30 lbs)
• Fishing line (15 lbs)
• Measuring tape
• Drill

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INSTRUCTIONS

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To make each himmeli:

1 | With tube cutter, cut copper tube into the following lengths:

8" - 4 pcs

6" - 8 pcs

3" - 4 pcs 

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2 | Measure copper wire to 10 ½ ft and cut. Using one end, string tubes (one of each) in the following order: 8", 6", 3", 6". For first set only: Leave about 2" of wire at the top. Fold over tube to secure. Taking the opposite, longer end of the wire, string back through 8" tube. Tighten tubes together so that they are securely in place.

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3 | Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you have made four sets.

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4 | Cut a piece of wire 16" and string through all of the bottom 3" tubes to connect. Join and secure by twisting the ends together, cut any excess wire, then hide exposed wire inside one of the tube openings. 

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5 | Join the top of the himmeli by twisting the two wires at the top. Cut any excess wire, then hide any exposed wire inside one of the tube openings. Taking another piece of wire, about 2" long, loop under pipes to create a ring, then twist to secure. Place excess wire inside one of the exposed tube openings.

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6 | If the copper has tarnished while assembling, polish with a mixture of salt and lemon to form a paste. Let sit for 15 seconds and scrub in small, circular motions. Rinse with warm water and then wipe with a cloth.

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 7 | To hang the himmeli, refer to the instructions that come with your swag hooks. Determine how far out from the wall you would like it to hang, then center that point in relation to your wall. Using that point as a guide, drill your holes and then secure your hooks. String fishing line through the himmeli ring, adjust height, then tie securely. Cut any excess line. 

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8 | Place your plant inside your bowl and fill it with soil. Place planter in himmeli. Let your copper himmeli delight you for years to come!

If you enjoyed this DIY, I shot a video for Mrs. Meyer's, so you can go and see how the finished product turned out! While you're there, please support me in my run to become Mrs. Meyer's First-Ever Homemaker by tapping the heart icon next to my video and casting your vote for me! The voting period ends on Feb. 15, so I hope you're able to stop by before then and show some love! You can also learn more about what this contest entails for me here. 

I really do hope you try your hand at this DIY. It's super easy to make and I created this in hopes that you guys could have a himmeli of your own without spending an arm and a leg to get one. Don't forget to enter the giveaway below!

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GIVEAWAY

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

What do you think about himmeli?  I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below! 

I have some very exciting news to share with you all, and if you already follow me on Instagram or Facebook, you may already know what I'm talking about!

More than two months ago, I saw that Mrs. Meyer's was on the hunt for their first-ever homemaker. All's I had to do was create a DIY and post a :15 video showing it off and telling them what inspires me. This was totally made for me! Not only am I obsessed with Mrs. Meyer's amazing natural products, but I am also obsessed with DIYs. 

If you're not familiar with Mrs. Meyer's they make cleaning products that are natural, safe, and effective, but the cake-topper is that they smell AMAZING. Not kidding and not just saying that. And you know how I am about that natural living lifestyle!  So, of course I couldn't pass on this opportunity! I uploaded two videos to Instagram. This one and this one. Since this was just the first round, I was praying that I would make it to the second round and be amongst the 15 semi-finalists.  

And then, it happened! I received an email saying that I had been selected as a semi-finalist and that I needed to create another video!! I was beaming with excitement (and still am) and was so excited to be chosen amongst so many great entries. So, I got to working and decided to create a copper himmeli plant hanger. I wanted to challenge my DIY skills and create something I've never made before and something that I'd appreciate for years to come.

It turned out to be a real beauty. I'll be posting how to create this DIY along with all of the other photos in the coming days, so come back for that! 

Now, for the best part. What does the winner receive? For one, the winner will be flown to NYC to collaborate with Mrs. Meyer's and create more awesome DIYs and videos. The winner will also get creative with influencers, Grace Bonney of Design• Sponge and Paul Lowe of Sweet Paul. How sweet is that?! But the prize that makes this something of dreams is the $75k paycheck! How many dreams can come true in one? A kazillion. Do you know how many people I can encourage and inspire with that kind of money? Also a kazillion. ;)

So, friends, I have a 1 in 15 chance of taking all!! How exciting is that?? Will you help me get there? Will you be a part of my dream come true? I hope you will say yes! See my finished DIY in my video entry linked below. You can also get to know me a bit more: What inspires me and what Mrs. Meyer's homegrown inspiration means to me.

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VOTE for me, stina a. 1X A day from JAN 18 - FEB 15

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Thank you so much for all of your support. It means the world to me that you get to be a part of this once in a lifetime opportunity! My dream is to continue to inspire and encourage you all!