a drop in the ocean

August 23, 2014 hdoan3

During my time home this summer, I got to watch my dog save baby sea turtles that were stuck in their nests. He would bring them to me gently, and watch as they slowly made their way out into the ocean. It’s such a beautiful sight to see–having this tiny, new-born creature instinctively make its way out into the ocean alone. Could you imagine, being tossed through waves into a massive, unchartered territory–but at the same time, instinctively knowing to do so?

It’s so easy to get caught up in a fast-paced lifestyle. I’ve always been the type of person to have a long list of things to do, going through every day with some sort of agenda. Ever since I went home this summer, I really started slow down and take the time to observe the little things that happen around me. I have taken that understanding with me to Australia, immersing myself in this new place while letting things come naturally. It’s been an amazing experience so far, and a lot of my appreciation and happy memories have come from the moments when I slowed down and really took in the moment.

There’s such a deep message that I’ve picked up on from watching the turtles this summer. It inspires me to open my eyes and immerse myself in the unknown, and to always know that home is there. I was blessed with support and guidance growing up, and I have so much appreciation for the foundation I’ve been given. Now, this is the time to go out and learn more about myself from being in new places, figuring out which direction to head as I go along. It is such an exciting point in my life, and I am so thankful to have this understanding with me as I continue my journey. I instinctively know that I am doing what’s best for me, and can’t wait to see what the future holds.

coffee coffee buzz buzz

August 21, 2014 hdoan3

Frank_Original_TOP_01_large

When I was a toddler, my mom caught me in the kitchen, swimming in coffee grinds on the counter. Ask me why I did it, I couldn’t tell you then–but today, I would proudly say I was doing a coffee body scrub! Who knew a toddler could be so innovative? (Yes, I did just share one of the many weird things I did as a child.)

Meet Frank, the best body scrub I have found to date. Its coffee-based, all natural formula not only soothes your skin and sloughs off the bumps, it is proven to help diminish stretch marks, psoriasis, and many other skin problems you may be experiencing. The quirky packaging just arrived and I was so excited to try it out!

I may have looked like I was just casually rolling in dirt, but after leaving the scrub on for 10 minutes and rinsing, I came out of the shower smelling like sweet almond oil with a hint of coffee, and my skin was the softest its ever been! (probably as soft as it was the last time I rolled in coffee grinds…)

If you’re in Australia and New Zealand, you get free shipping. If you do not live there, I still highly recommend the product! Check out there products online, there’s a few other types to choose from! However, I found a little DIY recipe on another Australian favorite, The Beauty Chef, to try at home! (I’ll be filling you in on why she’s so amazing soon!)

Oh PS- Tasha Oakley loves Frank too! So if I couldn’t sell you on it, maybe she can!

{via: A Bikini A Day}

simple summer look

July 11, 2014 hdoan3

During the summer, my makeup drawer is usually collecting dust. It’s such a hassle to put on makeup that I usually end up just showing my sunburnt face in public without a care in the world. In an attempt to clean up my look, the first thing I go for is a simple shimmery eyeshadow. I’m currently loving the Bobbi Brown Surf and Sand eyeshadow palette–it’s every beautiful neutral color in a fun case! It’s a great touch for the natural makeup look if you’re looking for something subtle.

Happy weekend everyone! : )

rainy days

July 9, 2014 hdoan3

South Florida summers mean beautiful, sunny mornings for the early birds followed by dark rolling clouds by noon. The clear blue skies are engulfed by the rumbling thunder and lighting in just moments. I personally love this weather–it makes me wake up early and enjoy the day, then feel at ease snuggling up in the afternoon.

What better than to snuggle up with this cutie too?

I recently sent his paw print to this etsy shop called Cherished Sentiments, where she had it made onto a gold-fill pendant. Joanne was extremely nice and the item was shipped within a week. I love my new addition to my necklace collection, and now have Tucker’s paw print close to my heart : )

independence

July 4, 2014 hdoan3

Happy Fourth of July everyone! I hope you all enjoy the holiday with your friends and family. I am so grateful to those who serve for our country, and for my amazing family and friends surrounding me today.

Today, we are having a family barbecue with our close friends–hot dogs, cheeseburgers, the whole deal! I’ll be making a vegan strawberry shortcake with Clara. New post coming soon (if it turns out yummy!)

wish you were here

June 30, 2014 hdoan3

I can’t believe how quickly summer is going by! I’ve been so wrapped up in my routine that I’ve hardly kept up with my blog. I can’t believe that I’m leaving in 2 weeks for Australia! It’s going to be the experience of a lifetime, and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for me. I’ll be sure to keep you all posted a lot more than I have been the past few months : )

Here’s a few shots I’ve captured this summer. I lucked out with this awesome South Florida weather! Happy Monday everyone!

trio takeover

June 17, 2014 hdoan3

The Céline Trio bag is a beautiful fashion staple, making its way throughout my Pinterest feed. It’s a beautiful “trio” of three leather clutches buttoned together into a perfect cross body bag. After spending months saving up for one of my very own, I could’t find the bag anywhere! Just as I was about to give up, I lucked out with the Annabel Ingall look-alike. She is an Australian designer with an eye for what’s trending, but also classic at the same time. Double win–it’s a third of the price (which means I had some extra money saved up to spare!) I love detaching one clutch from the trio and using it as a pouch in my bigger totes, as well as a casual clutch to run quick errands with.

Check out her website to see an array of color choices, as well as her other styles (I love the totes too!) You can also find some of her products on Shopbop and Revolve Clothing with free shipping and returns!

the little things

June 15, 2014 hdoan3

As we go through our days, the cycle of nature remains unstopped. The sun rises, the sun sets–the moon fills, the moon empties–the flowers bud, the flowers bloom. It’s a constant routine that is easily overlooked. I woke up to see the sunrise with a friend of mine the other day and was greeted with the most beautiful painted sky that can’t be bought. I find the little things to hold so much more than just an everyday occurrence.

It’s the little things that bring true joy to many people. For me, I felt present, grateful, and content while watching the sun rise over the ocean. The sun rises and lights a beautiful, endless path on the water that leads to the unknown. My future can only be planned so much, but what’s most important lies in fate. I believe in my ability to help myself before I can help others. I want to share my journey in order to inspire others.

I encourage you to stop for a few seconds when you’re outside, or meditate while imagining you are in a beautiful place, and really listen to the sounds of nature. You will be surprised at what thoughts may link to your observations. It’s the little things, like the cycles of nature, that can answer so many questions you may have, or problems you may hold on to.

acai addiction

June 2, 2014 hdoan3

Happy Monday! Ever since I got home for the summer, I’ve been going to 3 Natives for my daily acai bowl fix. I’m pretty sure the people working there think I’m crazy considering I’m there almost every morning… So, in an attempt to save time and money, I found the Sambazon acai sorbet and created my own breakfast bowl! This is super fun to make with friends or family and can be personalized to any of your favorite fruit and topping preferences:

Just stir the softened acai in a bowl (mix in peanut or almond butter if you prefer) and add as many toppings as you want! I added some organic peaches (hint hint, 3 Natives!). I also mixed in a little bit of raw honey and dang coconut chips. If you haven’t tried dang, you haven’t truly lived..just saying. I also like to add some bee pollen, maca powder, and vanilla granola too.

I will say, this bowl was almost exactly the same as 3 Natives. So for those of you who don’t live in the area, you can try it out or yourselves in your own home! However, for me, I just love making the trip there after yoga with friends and family! I also just remembered I have a free acai bowl from my 10 punch card (don’t ask me how many of those cards I’ve been through…)

Hope you all have a great week! : )

inverted

1 Comment May 23, 2014 hdoan3

For months I’ve been dying to try acro yoga, aerial yoga, and to get back on my paddle board for SUP yoga–lucky for me, I got to do them all within four days! My friend Natalie visited for the week and she was the best guest I could ever ask for! She kept me constantly busy, venturing out and trying new things. I had so much fun showing her all of my favorite restaurants and outdoor activities as well! She and I made many new friends through each of our workshops and classes too!

These yoga classes are popping up everywhere. It’s such a fun group activity, or even a fun date! I found it very interesting (and true!) when Kyle, the acro instructor, explained how we live in a closed-off society where touching and close contact are not comfortable to many people. Now, I’m not saying let’s all just walk super close and hug every stranger, it’s more about developing intimate relationships and being open to people you may not initially associate yourself with. I think that is so important–why simply look past someone when they could become your closest friend? We are all here for the same reason, right? We all want happiness, and we all want to be loved–so why shouldn’t we all help each other achieve that goal by being friendly and open?

With that, I challenge you to try one (or all!) of these classes. Maybe even try going alone, you can partner up, swing next to, or wipe out in the water with a total stranger. You could have such a memorable experience with new friends, or mix it up with some of your friends now. They are so fun and surprisingly easier than they look!

Here are some pictures from our upside down adventures this past week : )