My Desire To Simplify

This desire came from an overwhelming feeling of having too stuff. Too much clutter. Too many things that are never used, just taking up space. Here is a list of the places and things I am planning on decluttering and reorganizing:

• Wardrobe
• Kitchen
• Shoes
• Bathroom cabinets
• Sock/underwear drawer
• Linen closet
• Garage
• Computer

I read an article recently about some of the reasons to start simplifying and I couldn't agree more!

• Getting rid of stuff you don’t need or care about will help you have a more beautiful, peaceful home.
• Purging loosens your grip on material possessions.
• When you purge, material possessions lose their grip on you.
• A simple home is prepared for the future–an easier move, a better remodel.
• If you’re accustomed to simplicity, you can travel light.
• With less things clamouring for attention, you enjoy the things you do keep more.
• Less clutter means less to clean and organize.

I mentioned in a previous post that we might be relocating early next year. I want to make sure that we are not moving things from one place to the other without the need. Now I just need to convince the hubby to join me! Wish me luck!

August Goals

As I was looking in my planner the other day, I noticed I have accomplished a few of the goals I had set for myself this year. I have never been one to set monthly goals but I am going to give it a try and see if setting smaller goals will help me to actually focus on accomplishing them. I will reassess in September and see if its something I want to continue to do, based on my results. Here's the list I came up with:

1. Read 2 books (almost halfway through one)
2. Invest in some more natural skincare products
3. Schedule a mole removal
4. Exercise 3 times a week, in addition to my daily walks with Blanco
5. Declutter the garage

One of my goals for the year was to pursue a certificate and improve my computer skills. I completed it in June and now I am praying about potentially looking for employment. The thing is, there is a potential we may be relocating next year so its something I am taking into consideration. So there you have it. Check back in September to see how I did! 

I'm back!

I can't believe its been over a year since my last post! A lot has happened since the last time I blogged including:

-trips to Japan, Hawaii, South Carolina (2), Las Vegas and Nevada
-a lot of family time
-survived a 6 month deployment!
-a tiny house adventure
-made a few changes around the home
-found a church and have made some good friends
-one of my besties moved back to town

I didn't really plan on taking such a long break but the time away made me realize that I enjoyed blogging for the short time I did and so I hope to make it a more regular hobby. I hope to plan some posts to share my interests and passions along with everyday life stuff. 

I will be back on Tuesday with my August goals :)

Weekend Recap

Happy Monday ya'll!! I woke up bright eyed and bushy tailed ready to take on the day. I think the fact that we're suppose to have some awesome weather the next three days also helps :). This weekend was a good mix of busy and relaxing. On Friday morning, a sweet friend of mine invited me over for breakfast with her family. It was such a blessing and we were able to have some great discussion for about 4 hours! God is so good and has provided me some great opportunities for fellowship with other christian women.

This girl also makes the most delicious baked goods and I was in for a treat that morning. She made cinnamon rolls, biscotti, maple bars and chocolate chip scones! Of course I had a little bit of everything and then came home with a goody bag!

That evening I tried out a zumba class at the gym I attend. It was so much fun! Although this picture sums up my thoughts perfectly. 

Saturday morning I took B to the dog park and let him run his little heart out! It's definitely his happy place. Ever since we got the new flooring in our home, he has been less active so I have to get him outdoors at least once a day. 

Once home, I tackled mowing the yard. We have a small yard but since it is sloped, it was very difficult for me to mow. Maybe I am being whiney but I was certainly hoping neither of my neighbors were watching because it was certainly comical! Now I just need to figure out how to use the weed eater. 

I think it turned out pretty good considering it was my first time! I picked up take out and met a friend  for dinner. 

Sunday morning I headed to church. It is about a 45 min drive but I find those drives a great time to reflect on God's goodness! After church I hit up TJ Max for some new candles. I found some tropical scents that are getting me ready for summatime!

I attended a potluck mid afternoon and then met up with some ladies in the evening for a bonfire. 

All in all it was a lovely weekend! Now I am off to tackle my to do list :). I've got a DIY project that I am excited about and will share on the blog soon! 

Playing Catch Up

I can't believe it has been over one month since my last post! I am going to try to be more consistent with my posts. Wish me luck. :)

We have been getting some awesome weather here in the Pacific Northwest and I have taken advantage of every sunny day to spend time outside. Blanco and I have been on several scenic walks lately. We usually shoot for afternoon walks so that he is worn out by the end of the day!

Several of my family members have made the trek from eastern WA to visit us. Being close to family has been such a blessing and I am sure I will se a lot more of them this summer. 

My new baby niece Bria!

It's currently tulip season so a trip to the tulip fields was a must with this cutie! 

During the warmer months, I love to have fresh flowers around the house. It adds a little pep in my step and adds color to an otherwise mostly neutral palette. 

I recently joined a women's bible study at a local church and we are reading "Becoming a Woman Whose God is enough". It has been both encouraging and convicting at the same time. I would definitely recommend it!

 

Well folks. That's all I have for ya! 

Friday Favorites

Before I get to my Friday favorites, I can't believe its already Friday again! This week has flown by for me as I have been busy taking care of some things around the house and running errands almost daily. I have also been working on my fitness although I really need to tweak my eating if I want to see any results! 

I am really looking forward to spring and getting my home springified (is that even a word?). I am loving this wreath for my front door. It's bright and cheerful and makes my heart happy! 

My sister picked up these shoes for me during a sale at Target. Mine are grey and they are super comfortable! I have been wearing them every chance I get :)

This tee from Old Navy has been on repeat lately. It is soft and comfortable. I am hoping to purchase it in a different colors. 

My little Blanco has certainly been loving all the time I am spending with him lately!

On the agenda for this weekend is both work and relaxation. Hubby has to go in to work so I am going to use that time to work on some professional development and some home projects I would like to complete. We have a movie date tomorrow night and I am looking forward to it! I hope ya'll have a blessed weekend!!!

Weekend recap

Hello Monday! This past weekend was a busy one and boy am I tired! I was out of town visiting family and though there was a lot to celebrate, it sure can wear you out. I have three sisters who have March birthdays and I was able to celebrate with two of them, which is rare. Living far from family means I miss out on many of their gatherings so it is a blessing to be able to celebrate in person. The main reason for my visit was to help  host a baby shower for one of my younger sisters. I am happy to report that the party was a success!

There was no shortage of sweets! We ended up adding a couple more desserts right before we dug in. 

My sister in law has a very talented friend who made the yummy cupcakes. They were delicious!!!

  

We put together a headband station where guests were able to make a headband for baby. It was a great activity :)

This girl is going to make a great mom! Can't wait to meet baby Bria!

I drove back home Sunday afternoon and I feel as though I have a cold coming on so I am going to take it easy today. On the agenda this evening are chicken fajitas and The Bachelor! Maybe some wine for good measure :)