I’ve been living alone for the first time in my life since January. I realize every day how much I love it and how fortunate I am to be living on my own at 25. Sometimes I stop and look around in disbelief.

I have final say on everything.

I pay my rent. I pay my bills. I plant my garden. I pick my food. I buy that super-sweet-smelling candle in pink and paint my bedroom bright yellow. I don’t care what anyone else has to say about it.

I am completely self-sustained for the first time in my life, and it feels wonderful.

I have great friends, new-found hobbies that keep me moving, a man that makes me very happy, and this super special guy to always welcome me home:

More on my house soon! As you may have imagined, I moved everything around again. I’m planning on taking some pictures of the home including the garden and a semi-final shot of the closet renovation I posted earlier. Take care, and be happy!

Animal Prints by Sharon Montrose

Sharon Montrose was featured on The Every Girl this week! If you’re an animal lover like me, you definitely have to check out her work. Can you imagine taking photos of cute animals like this baby kangaroo for a living?

(via TheAnimalPrintShop.com)

iPhone Cases by Rifle Paper Co.

I’m sure most Rifle Paper Co. fans have heard, but this week they debuted a line of iPhone cases. Now you can dress up your phone in the same dainty, beautiful artwork Rifle Paper Co. is known for. Loving it! Unfortunately, my favorite designs aren’t available for my iPhone 4. However, iPhone 5 users won’t have a problem.

(via RiflePaperCo.com)

Kate Spade New York Waverly Street Drew

I’m a huge Kate Spade admirer, but I only own a bag and a wallet. (Hoping to increase my collection!) I spotted the Kate Spade NY Waverly Street Drew and immediately fell in love. These are getting harder to find because they’re going on sale, unfortunately. I’ve spotted a mint color but this pale pink Waverly Street Drew is gorgeous too!

(via Zappos.com)

Well-to-Dew Dress

I’m filling up my wishlist with dresses for the warmer weather, which I can’t wait to knock off the list one-by-one. This Well-to-Dew Dress by Modcloth looks dressy yet comfortable, just what I’m looking for.

(via ModCloth.com)

Gold-Dipped Flatware

Anthropologie always has the cutest things for both the home and your wardrobe. Check this out — they have gold-dipped flatware. Does anything scream ‘I’m Super Fancy’ more than this set? I wish I had an excuse to purchase. These would be great for special dinner parties.

(via Anthropologie.com)

Something I used to do a lot a few months ago (before my life sort of changed) was get intricate with my nail designs. Ever since, I either haven’t had time or gave up on it.

Does this mean my life has officially gone back to normal? I wouldn’t call this intricate by any means, but I’m glad that I’m getting back into the things I love. Blogging included.

Max doesn’t look like he cares very much, but I forgive him.

Products used:

• Master Plan by Essie
• Lady Like by Essie
• Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

Seed Organizer Jar

This would be a great idea for tea or seeds you’re saving. It keeps the moisture out! Plus, it saves space. Box packaging is super annoying and takes up unnecessary space.

(via MarthaStewart.com)

Tiny Bee Crest Stamp

I have a soft spot for bumblebees, so this Tiny Bee Crest by LushPrints on Etsy stole my heart. I don’t like to own too many craft items like tape, stickers, or stamps. But every item in a collection should mean something special.

(via Etsy.com)

Artwork Suited for April

This abstract raindrop artwork has me thinking of April showers and spring. Something I am slowly working on is adding more artwork to my home. Love the muted pastel colors too, my favorite!

(via Etsy.com)

Diana Camera Purse

I can’t get over how cute this Crochet Diana Dreamer Purse is. Naturally, it sold at lightning speed. Woe is me! But check out the artist’s other adorable items. Now that’s some serious crochet skill.

(via Etsy.com)

Winston Lunar Fade Glasses

Glasses like these Winston Lunar Fade Glasses from Warby Parker make me wish I still had a valid reason for wearing specs. I found out a year or so ago that my prescription was incorrect, and I technically only need to wear glasses for 20/20 while reading. That’s a good enough excuse to buy these, right? I wish.

(via WarbyParker.com)

Black One-Piece Bathing Suit

With the weather really warming up here in California, my beach bum self is tempted to head out to the beach already. I’m thinking a one-piece bathing suit over a bikini this year. (Work your illusionist magic, baby.)

(via ModCloth.com)