​We moved into our home about 3 years ago, and after a few months I started to see stains in the bowl of my toilet. I found out that Bonney Lake has a severe problem with hot water. I was so stressed out about it, because I've always prided myself on having a clean home. I don't like people to see my home messy or my toilets looking uncleaned. Something this little had embarrassed me so much. Over the years I had tried just about everything I could think of, homemade and store bought. 


I first just tried that blue stuff you squeeze around the rim of the toilet bowl and scrub it with the brush. That obviously cleaned the dirt and the grime along with the bacteria but those hard water stains weren't budging at all. I don't like to waste money so I continued to use the blue stuff until it was out before trying anything else. It definitely didn't make anything worse, but it didn't make it better. 

I knew there had to be something I could buy that would help! I went back to the store and I found something that promised it would help with hard water stains. Again it was blue, (must be something about blue in the bathroom cleaning products), this time it went in the tank of the toilet and released a little bit of chemical with every flush. I thought for sure that would do it, because it was going to break down something in the water and preform some type of magic and make all my problems go away. In addition to that I put this blue sticky blob thing that goes in the bowl and said it would do the same thing essentially as the tablets I put into the tank. So I figured double the power, the better.....right? WRONG! So so very wrong my friend. Not only did this blue crap not work, it stained my toilet with blue line throughout the bowl. How was this getting worse? What is this!? 

After that nightmare ran out, I thought I could just bleach the blue stains away. And that wasn't the right answer either. I had never experienced anything like this. But I was determined to solve this, if it was the last thing I do. ( Really hoping it wasn't going to take my whole life to figure out) I didn't want to make this my life's mission! I knew no one really noticed my hard water stains unless I pointed them out. Which I always did, so they wouldn't think I don't clean my toilets. It was my defense mechanism, LOL make fun of yourself before anyone else does. 

This story isn't over yet, unfortunately! So after nothing chemically was seeming to do the job I figured some home recipes. I went straight to Pinterest which knows all about everything so naturally it would have some sort of plan for my disgusting toilet. The first thing I did was pour a two liter of coke into the toilet bowl. This idea seems insane, pure craziness but it was all over Pinterest on multiple blogs so I thought it would be a legit way to get rid of stains. It was saying that the chemicals will break down the limescale without damaging, it would loosen the grime. Was it just that easy? I followed the guidelines, let the coke sit for a bit and then flushed. What a joke! I was way too hopeful on that one. 


The next thing that I had tried was different combinations of vinegar, baking soda and once in a while I would use borax or washing soda. These were all great at cleaning the toilet but still weren't a match for the stubborn blue, pink and brownish stains that covered the bowl of the toilet. I was so frustrated, and was thinking the best idea was just to buy new toilets. I was able to get the hard water stains out of my sinks and shower doors but these toilets would be the end of me!    

A little over a year ago my mom mentioned to me that a pumice stone might work but it's a little sketchy because you could damage the porcelain if you scrub too hard. And at the time I wasn't sure what would be worse to have a scratched and stained toilet. Could I mentally handle that? I wasn't sure, and it sounded like it wasn't promising. So I put it in the back of my mind for a long time and I didn't think about it. So I just went on going on cleaning my toilet but not focusing on really getting those stains because I couldn't do it. But one morning I couldn't sleep and I was online looking up the best cleaning tools from Amazon. I don't know how I came across this article but I'm sure glad I did. While there were so many good products on there the one I was mostly into was the pumice stick. After reading all of the reviews and how well it really worked for people, I thought I should at least give it a try. So I bought it, and it sat in the box for the first few weeks. It came around Christmas time and I just didn't make time to try it out. But one day I sat down and I gave it a shot. 


The only instructions were to get the stone wet and be  gentle while scrubbing. So I got it wet and started scrub the ring on the water line. And it was coming off! It was working, it was actually taking the hard water stains right off without any scratches or weird marks on the porcelain what so ever! It was actually working! It took about a half hour to get all of the stains out, and on some of them I actually scrubbed pretty hard! I was almost crying with so much joy because my toilet looked brand new! Every single stain has disappeared. I was so pumped up I sent pictures to my best friend and my mom. I was obviously way more excited then they were but they were still very supportive! When I had Tyler's mom over she noticed and mentioned how great it looked! After I did my powder room toilet I did my other two bathrooms and I haven't had to do it again since!  I did this about a month ago and they stains haven't come back yet. I know they will come back but I'm not sure how long in between it will be. But I will never worry again, because I know how to handle it! I'm not afraid of these hard water stains and you shouldn't be either! They are treatable and totally manageable! 

​I'm so excited for you to give this a try if you've had a tough time with hard water stains too. This will change everything, and like myself you will wonder why you haven't tried this whole time. I hope you find much luck with the pumice as I did, and if you have any upkeep ideas on hard water stains please send them my way! I would love to give them a try!


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​Everyone has things that they cannot live without, that they use on a regular basis. I'm not talking about people or animals either because that's different, those are companions. I'm talking about objects that make your world better and easier!  There are so many things that we often take for granted and don't really think about meaning and how much we appreciate them. Or how they truly improve our daily lives! What do you think you wouldn't live without? I would love to know if we have the same ideas or what yours might be! 


1. My coconut oil
I love my coconut oil, and it has been a part of my everyday life now and I honestly don't know what a life without it looks like. I use it in so many different aspects of day, from oil pulling, make up remove to tooth paste and face wash. I cook, and bake with it. It is a large staple in my home and I know there are so many ways you can use it that I haven't utilized yet. But I know that I will use it in so many more ways then I could ever use any other kind of oil. I know that coconut oil will never let me down and that no matter what problems come up in or on my body or even in my home I can solve it with my coconut oil! I usually get mine from Costco, and it lasts me a few months. And a bring a mason jar of oil with me everywhere I go! I'll actually be doing a post pretty soon with everything I do with my coconut oil.

2. Essential oils.
Essential oils are life and I also use them everyday for EVERYTHING. I use them in my beauty products, cleaning products, illness, focus, for my cat and in my diffuser. No matter what's going on in your life there is without a doubt an oil for it. If someone comes to me with a illness, or stress I will tell them a bunch of homeopathic ways including essential oils. Some of the oils I use most frequently are, lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, and lemon! But those are just the ones I use every single day but I use so many more on an as need basis. I even have Tyler using them too, he is actually starting to request them! I'm going to begin to use them on our cat as well.  I don't like to use chemicals or harmful medications in my home, because we love our health and our bodies and care what goes into them. 

3. My kindle
I love to read, I love it! It brings me to another world when I need a vacation from my own. But I couldn't pick just one book, so I picked my kindle because I can put as many books on it as I want, it also has many apps for whatever you may need! I use my kindle every day, from watching Netflix, to reading my favorite books. It's a great thing to bring on the go! Even my niece and nephew love to watch movies and play games on it. It's also so light that I can just toss it into my bag and take it with me where ever I go so that I can easily be able to read my favorite books or play some solitaire. There are so many free books too, so there is always something to read! 
 
4. My planner
I am such a nerd! I love my planner and thanks to my sister in law i got a great one this year! My planner is my life line, I would forget so many things if I didn't have a pretty place to write them down. It's a great way to keep your life a little more organized without using your technology. And my planner has a place for monthly goals, and ideas for the month, It's by far my favorite planner thus far and I love it because it's large enough where I don't have to squish my writing and it has the cutest elephant on it! GET A PLANNER!!!!! Everything in my life is in my planner and I've loved using one since I was in Elementary school and they made you use one to track home work due dates and projects!  


5. My bathtub
I bought my house because of the bathtub, (okay that was a stretch, but it made the decision making easier) I love my bath time, I take that as my time to feel better, unwind and detox my whole body. I sit, I meditate and I think about how blessed I am in this world. I use, baking soda, essential oils, bath salts, espom salt, tea bags, candles, my diffuser and music and just breathe. Because when life gets rough there is always always something that can cheer you up and make you feel better. And baths aren't only for women and children, men can get great benefits out of them too! It's a great way to spend alone time, and feel better! Ideally I like to take a bath once a week, but honestly I haven't been doing that for most of the year! But I know I need to make more of an effort at doing a bath detox at least one day a week but more if I'm feeling out of sorts or in pain. 

6. My back massager
Okay, this is actually a back massager and not any thing else! HAHA I promise. I get really stiff and uncomfortable a lot of the time. I got this amazing massager for my birthday after I hinted at it for 10 months after his mom got one for Christmas. I use it every few days to get some of my knots out. I've used it on my head, back, neck, stomach, feet, and legs It has 3 speed settings and heat! It's seriously amazing and helps me feel my best! It even has a car port so I can use it on road trips, which is amazing because I get so achy when I'm sitting in the car for more then 2 hours or so. And it's unfortunate because we take so many road trips, but with my new buddy I don't have to worry about it anymore. 

7. My yoga mat
I think you're seeing a trend here, I love to feel good! I love when I'm able to be my best self. Yoga is also a part of my daily life, I don't always have my mat, sometimes I'm not home and don't want to always lug my mat around. Taking time to just stretch it out, or get more advance and do some harder poses is something that I find relaxing and lets me escape from my daily tension. I do yoga either before/ after work and at my lunch break, and it makes me go a little easier on my self for the remainder of the way. It helps me remember to slow down, and breathe slower.  Anyone can do yoga, in so many different forms. Headstand yoga, aerial yoga, hot yoga, goat yoga, outdoor yoga, mommy and me yoga, Paddle board yoga, and so many more different kinds that are fun and so beneficial. 



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8. Coffee Pot
Coffee gives me life. I don't think I would be a good person without my coffee. Don't get my wrong, I can go a few days without it, and I often like to do so I appreciate it more when I do have it! I'm always tried, due to the fact that Tyler snores like a bear and I'm working way to much whether it be my day job or blogging. I've always got something going on in my life, helping someone, shopping for something or cleaning and repairing something at home. Coffee is also very helpful when I get my migraines and helps take the piercing sharp pain out of my brain. I love my Keurig and I use it every day. But I don't think I can live without my two favorite coffee stands either, I don't go often but when I do they really make the best coffee. And I can't live without them either, they are real life super hero's! 

9. Himilayian Salt Lamp
We got our first lamp last year, I had been dying to get one because I had read about all the benefits. Some including, clearing allergens in the air, giving off energy,  increasing serotonin, improving sleep quality and reducing levels of stress. I have one in my office and one in my bedroom. I use my office one all day when I'm there, even if I step out for a minute to run some errands. In my bedroom I turn it on as soon as I get home in the afternoon, and let it send it's ions into the air. When I'm ready for bed, I turn it off. I also have a set of 3 candle holders that are Himalayan salt rock and I love to light them on my coffee table when I'm entertaining or even just relaxing. My goal for the year is to have lamps or candle holders in each room of my home to ensure air quality, energy, happiness and improve sleep for not only us but anyone who comes into our home. We want everyone who come into our home to love it and feel the most comfortable possible. 
 
10. My camera 
I've been into photography ever since I can remember. I love how beautiful the world is, even in every day things that people often over look or don't consider to be beautiful. I don't bring my camera around as much anymore mostly because I'm lazy and make excuses. But I love my Nikon and all my Polaroids and go pro's. I love capturing the stillness in nature, once in a life time events or the smiles of loved ones. Photography is a great way to show the world what you see and what you believe to be beautiful. And I hope I continue to shoot into the later years of my life, so that I can leave so many memories with my loved ones. The more pictures we capture the more memories we can look back on and rejoice in. We can look back with our children and our children's children and tell them all about the day we want to Disneyland or when our tent  collapsed in the rain. 


I can't wait to hear what your list is! Comment below and tell me what your list is and what you like off of my list! I can't wait to hear from you! 

​XOXO N

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Holidays are my favorite time of year, as so many of you too! We all get in the holiday spirit this time of year with the cute little snowmen, Santa's and elves watching. And with that spirit comes generosity and wanting to give to all of those people who help us through out the year. But sometimes we don't know when it's appropriate to tip or when it's only okay for hand written thank you's and a small gift. I've come up with a who to tip and who not to list to make this holiday season go a little more smoothly. But by all means, don't go out and spend more then your holiday budget will allow. And now that you're learning more about tipping and gift giving during the holiday season you can prepare sooner for years to come. So if it's too close to Christmas  this year to tip accordingly, consider doing something handmade! 




Tips are okay for the following people: 

Christmas Tree Carrier. Whether the attendant helps you chop down your tree, carry it to your car or anything in between they are working their butts off all season, in the cold and rain so that we can have pretty tree's in our home. I think a $5 tip is appropriate.

Massage Therapist. My massage therapist is my saving grace, not just during the holidays but she's always making me feel better mentally and physically. The rule for massage therapist's is to tip the same amount as your massage cost. I.E. your massage was $60, tip $60. Might seem a little much, but I was talking with someone this morning and she was saying that those tips are their bonus and they really end up relying on them! 

Gift Wrapper. This noble person is doing the work you're not good at or just don't have time to do. They take away a lot of stress from your season and no one really gives them the credit they deserve! Tipping $1-$2 is standard.

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Landscaper or Gardner. They keep our yards nice! They do it in the rain, they do it in the heat. Tipping, $20-$50 is recommended if they come a few times a year. But if they come more frequently, or a few times a week tip them a weeks salary (or a full day if they only come one day every week or so)

Newspaper Courier. You might not have a delivery service but if you do you should tip $20. Most of the time adults do this job these day, so they are working pretty early most mornings to get you your paper on time!

Handyman/ Construction worker. Depending on the work that's been done in your home you should tip $10-$30.

Trash and Recycling collectors. My guys always have my back, last week I ran out last minute because I forgot to put my cans out on Thanksgiving. He could have just left because I missed my turn but he came back to me on his way back out of the neighborhood. They deal with this stuff all day long, how exhausting that must be! Tipping $25 is a great way to show appreciation. 

Mechanic. Depending on the work you are having done you should tip between $20-$50!

Child Care. Taking care of your babies is very important and it can be hard. You know that! And sometimes they watch more then one child whether they all be your children our other children they work hard and have long days. They get cranky and sick sometimes. But they do love their jobs and love the opportunity that you give them. $30-$60 is a generous holiday gift!

Nanny. Nanny's are a little different then babysitters or day care teachers. They are a member of your family, they cook, clean, run errands, take littles to appointments or sports practices. Their care usually goes beyond the normal work hours. A tip equal to a weeks pay is usually the guideline.

Hair Stylist/ Nail Tech. They make us feel beautiful and less stressed all year long. The guideline is to tip the amount of your bill. I've spoken with both hair stylist and nail techs and they both say that tips are often forgotten.

Cleaning Crew. If you have a house cleaner you should tip them the amount of their weekly cost. (depending on how often they visit you)

Dog walker or pet groomer. The standard tip is $10-$20

Personal trainer or yoga instructor. They work hard all year, when we are crying, sweating and sometimes puking on their floor. They transform us. One sessions fee is a standard tip!

While you can (check with companies policies) get these service providers tips during the holiday season you can also get them a small gift instead. Baked goods, a plant, gloves, mugs and candles are a few ideas!

Who is is not appropriate to tip?

Yes there are professions where it is not okay to throw out money. But a small gift or a gift card is typically okay to give! Remember to keep the gift card under $20 or so!

Mail carriers. They are not allowed to accept cash but they are allowed to accept gift cards under $20. I give my mail carrier gifts all year for her work. Candy, souvenirs from my trips and baked goods! If your weather is colder you could gift some gloves and some hand warmers too!

Health care professionals. They are also not allowed to take cash. Give them a group gift. Something for the office to share, like a plant or a bunch of cookies!

Teachers. If you give a teacher money it might get really weird. Some alternative gift ideas can be, coffee cups, homemade gifts from your kids, wine, gift cards, or personalized items you may think they would like for their classroom.

Dry Cleaner. Bring them a small gift if you regularly use them.

Assistant or Boss. Give them a gift card or a small gift.  In addition to any end of year bonus they have received. Avoid anything too personal. 

School bus/ or public bus driver. Whether your child takes the bus to school or you take the bus to work your driver does have a hard job. They have people or children screaming and being hyper every day, they deal with traffic and crazy weather all the time and still people are unhappy when buses run late. A small gift basket or a gift card is acceptable but call and find out the companies policies first. 

Neighbors. I would not give my neighbors cash, unless they house sat or babysat for me. But I would get a little gift basket together for them, my neighbors are always there to help me out. And I always appreciate their hospitality. I love giving them goodies for taking care of me. 

But the holidays should not be about spending so much cash, it's more about showing gratitude and appreciation. I don't want you to go broke giving $20-$60 to everyone that's helped you throughout the year. There are a few things that you can do in lieu of money, Hand written notes, donations to charities, something DIY that has a personal touch, or even give them some positive online reviews or call their boss and tell them how much you appreciate their service. Get to know the people who make your lives easier throughout the year. Do they have kids? Are they going on vacation? We often forget to connect with people because of the digital age. 

Also this list is not limited to who deserves your gratitude most or anything like that. You and only you know your life and who's important to you. Show them with love and kind words this holiday season. And as my mom would always say, treat people the way you would want to be treated. The more love you give the more love you will receive. 

I'm usually a pretty good tipper in general, not just during November and December. If I have good service I want to accommodate that, if I have a good experience I want people to know how much I love a product or a company or even one individual. Reach out to people who've done outstanding work or service for you and let them know it's meant a lot to you. Not just now but all year long. A lot of the time people who work in the service industry work long hours, sometimes they don't get to see their family as often as they'd like. They make less per hour then they should and they really rely on tips. However, we have all been somewhere where we have had poor service and left an establishment unhappy or unsatisfied and it happens. Sometimes people are having an off day and we unfortunately got in the way of that. If it was one bad day on their side, don't let that change how you feel if you've had outstanding service every other time. If you've never had good service there, find a new place for your business! 

Spread the joy, and love this year. Do whatever you can to show people your appreciation, the more you show gratitude and appreciation the better service you will have all year! Not to say that people will only be nice to you and give you the best service if you tip and give them presents.  And appreciation doesn't always mean spending money. Just go in every time with a smile on your face and get to know them, ask about their families and take an interest in them! 

Happy Holidays! 

I hope you found this informative! 

XOXO N

​We all know we that we are supposed to love ourselves all the time. But honestly it's not always as easy as it seems on paper. Sometimes not achieving your goals but a certain time seems like a fail and we can make us feel like we are failing life. Then nothing seems go right and we can hardly look in the mirror because of how disappointed we are with ourselves. I've been there babe, I get it. I've been through it, and more people then you realize have been through it. Push through it, push through the pain and the thoughts of failure because you're here and you're still trying, you're waking up everyday to slay and grind to achieve your goals and your dreams.

Dreams are so much harder to reach if you're fighting yourself every step of the way convincing yourself that you're not good enough and you never will be.  You'll start creating your own obstacles and not letting yourself succeed just because you don't believe in yourself for a few minutes. Well Honey, I'm here to tell you that you're amazing and you're totally bad ass. You know you're capable of amazing things, you have these dreams for a reason. You can do this! 

You're unique, you're the only one out there that is like you. Sure you have like minded friends and family. There is no one with your thinking, beauty and charismatic charm. And embrace that, if anyone criticizes you for being different that's their problem because they aren't opened minded to being unique and who you are.  

No matter how hard your life has been, how heart broken you've been,you've obviously made it out, you may have changed.  And that's okay, but you made it out. You're alive and every day you're here you have a second chance. That just shows how strong you are, and how you are capable of more then  you think you are. You are powerful, you are strong and you are resilient. 

Your soul is young but you've seen some stuff in your life, you've learned and gained knowledge but no matter how much you've learned in your years of life. You've still always have so much to learn and gain.  There is always more to learn and more ways we can continue to improve yourself.  

You are incredible, you are strong, you are beautiful and you don't even know it sometimes. Don't let the bad moments influence what you think about yourself. I promise that you're capable of so much more than you will ever give your self credit for.  Love yourself and the rest will come into place after that. You're going to do great things, you're going to go far in this world. I can't wait to see how you're going to make this world a better place. Love yourself, not only for yourself but for the people that you're surrounded with,  they will see something new and they will love you more for loving yourself. There are so many people that love you, so many people that trust and believe in your soul every single day. So why can't you love yourself that much? News flash? YOU CAN, and YOU WILL! 

2018 is a new year, and lets challenge each other to love and love hard.  Love each other, love things, love experiences and most importantly love yourself. 

​XOXO N

We have all been there at one point or another. Whether it be work, relationships or unhealthy habits. But when they are so toxic that they are bringing you down, changing who you are as a person and how you feel about the world. We cannot live our lives doing things that make us unhappy, we cannot change our souls for others. And it took me a very long time to realize that I need to live my life the way I am designed to. I was not living as my best self, and that's not okay. I've always known that I wanted to quit my job, it wasn't a good place for me. But when I started getting sexually harassed, manipulated and bullied I knew I needed to make my exit. 

A guy at work was harassing me for months, I told me manager multiple times. She would reply with "oh gross" or "what a jerk". I'm sorry but how is that helpful? I told her about a half dozen incidences where I was looking for some guidance and help.  But without doubt she would not help. She called herself a friend, even used the words "Best friends". She was not a friend, she made me hurt and in more pain then I needed to be in. I needed her to step up as a friend and a manager and help me when I needed it, instead of making jokes and brushing it under the rug. 

I got the courage to tell my GM and he told me "is it a guy being a guy", "there's not much I can do" "this can't affect other peoples job duties"  He did a few things to help me out, with other employee's for a few weeks after me complaining.  

A few months go by and the un-welcomed comments didn't stop. They seemed to get worse. to to the point where I would look in stalls before I used the rest room before I go. He was everywhere I turned, outside when I was eating lunch in my car. (only place I felt remotely safe during work). Every day would leave me in tears and panic attacks. I was terrified to go into work every single day. No one was helping, and I couldn't afford to not have a job.  I mean my bills needed to be paid right? I could suck it up and I could get through it. 

But as time went on. he began to ask me to do things to him. More like telling me to do things to him. I ran. I ran as fast as I could and I got out of there.  I knew it was time to get a lawyer. I met with a lawyer and I told him everything. 


A few weeks go by and somehow my new general manager found out I got a lawyer. That was a fun meeting. I know I did nothing wrong. But it was just a few awkward situation. 

On that day, I knew that in a few short weeks I would not be returning after my vacation. I knew whether I got a new job or not I wouldn't be able to drag myself back into this exhausting place. My new GM got a hold of HR and they decided to suspend the guy. They asked me my story and I told them everything. 

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Two days go by, and HR calls me. They told me that there is no way they can prove what I'm saying because I have no witnesses. So they have to bring him back to work. OH MY GOSH! They are bringing him back? I almost didn't show up back to work, but I held my head high and I showed up. And boy was this guy mad. He began slamming down things on my desk as he walked by, mumbling under his breath while walking by me,  Stomping his feet. Everyone was staring at me, it felt like everyone knew! No matter where I hid, I never felt safe. 

My manager was so mad that I hadn't told her the most recent comments. But why would I? Because she was so helpful last time?  I told her I felt uncomfortable talking about it, and I didn't want to talk to her about it. 

A week before my vacation, I emailed someone I had an interview with a few months ago but the position wasn't full time so I wasn't able to take it. I emailed her to see if there was any positions she had available.  And guess what! She did. She sent me a great job, which was so much closer to home, and a better position in general. I met with her on a Tuesday and by the end of the meeting, I walked out with a job. I accepted and as soon as I got into my car I cried. I was so happy. I called everyone in my family.

I had a way out! I had it and I was going to take it! Something so joyful and light came over me and instantly felt like a new person.  I'm finally winning! 

Last week I got back from my vacation, (I felt so happy and stress-free on my vacation), and I sent an email to my GM, his boss and my manager and I told them that I couldn't work for a place that wouldn't put my safety first, and I couldn't ever feel safe there.  And they never emailed me back. 

But you know what?! I'm so free! I'm more free then I've ever felt in my 4 years of working there. I started my new job, with  no fear to walk through the door. No fear of being alone at work. I get to live my life as the way it's been intended to live. 

So I encourage you, if you are in a situation that is compromising who you are then get a game plan and get it done as soon as possible. Things will work out how they are supposed to work out, and you will see the rainbow at the end of the storm. I'm living proof that following your heart and making hard decisions is worth it.  You need to live as your best self, and don't let anything hold you back from your highest abilities. 

Leave those toxic situations behind and start fresh because you will never feel better! 


Please email me, or comment if you don't know what to do but you know something needs to be done. I would love to help, I would love to get you through whatever you're going though because you're worth it. Your happiness and peace of mind is and always will be worth it. I'm hear for you, and I know it's over whelming but we will get you through this hump. I'm here for  not only girls who are having a hard time with some unwanted comments from creeps or not knowing when a friendship is too toxic, I'm here for anyone at any time. 

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​XOXO

Everyday is a new day for opportunity for change and for a happier you. You are able to start everyday with a fresh head leaving all of your woes and stresses behind in the day before. But every birthday you get to re-evaluate your life and see if you're on the right path for what you want in life. And this year I am so so ready for a new chapter and what better time then  turning 26! Weird to say, because it feels just like yesterday that I was turning 16 and learning to drive with my mom screaming in the passenger seat. I've has so much fun growing up and becoming the woman and adult I am today. I can't wait to see where this next year takes me mentally, emotionally, spiritually and physically.  I have come up with a list of 26 things that I want to do or accomplish in my next 365 days. 

1. Quit my job, I want to quit my job and be free of the stresses it comes with. And not driving 75 minutes each way wouldn't be horrible either. 

2. Have a baby, Now I put this one on my list every year. And last year it just wasn't right but I think with my new found self 26 might be the year I grow my family.

3. Blog Full Time, It's been my dream for a long time for to be a full time blogger and share my hope, love and ideas with the world of my readers. By becoming a a full time blogger, it'll give me the opportunity to quit my job and provide for my future kiddos. 

4. Travel to new places, I love to travel and to see places that I haven't gotten the change to see before. I have a road trip planned in May visiting, Zion, Arches, Bryce Canyon and The Grand Canyon. But I want to see more places! If you can think of any places in Canada, Oregon, Washington or Idaho I can skip away to for a weekend get-a-way please let me know!

5. Love myself, This one seems so silly. But this last year I've put myself through the wringer and didn't leave much room for self love. I want to love my body, and my inner self. I want to be able to wake up, and not second guess myself every time I try to do something that would otherwise make me happy. 

6. Write two books,  I'm currently writing my first E-book for you all to read, and I'm planning on being done within a month or two! So as soon as I launch that I will start working on book number two! I can't wait to launch my books and see how you guys respond to them!

7. Start a new gratitude journal, Some days it's hard and we forget everything we have in our lives that's going well and thriving. We are so much more then just one bad day or even a bad week. There are so many things to be happy and grateful for, family, health, a roof over your head. So having a daily reminder that you are okay even if you don't think you are. 

8. ​ Begin saving for a new house, I'm not ready to move yet but soon we will out grow this little home we've created. I bought this house a month after I turned 23, and we have lived here 3 months this March. And I love this house. But since we were able to save so much before moving here, I would love to continue that trend and take that to the next house we purchase. That way we can financially be ready when we do decide it's time to buy!  

9. Ski Lessons. I first stared to Ski when I was 23. And it was so much more fun than I had expected it would me. I've only been twice since I had my first lesson and I'm still very timid on the slopes and I would love to be able to be a little more confident and go skiing with Tyler through-out the winter. Which sometimes in the Pacific Northwest can last for 6 months! 

10. Start a craft/ flipping/ salvage business,   I love wood working, crafting and turning things into something new.  It's such a relaxing outlet for me and I would love to be able to share that with my local neighbors and an online community. I'm not sure exactly when I'll start this but I'm excited beyond words for it. 

11. Go camping 6 times,  Every year, we always say how often we plan on going camping and every single year life gets crazy during the summer and we only go 1-3 times. Being the outdoor lovers that we are, we really like to disconnect from the stresses and bustles of life to breathe in fresh air, fish and make s'mores. I hope to start camping earlier hopefully in the spring and go into early fall. 

12. Go on a side by side,  This is something we've both wanted to do for a while, and wanting to purchase out own. Side by sides are something we can take, camping, off roading, through the snow,  and just cruising around the campsite. We are hoping we can go on a tour in Bryce Canyon! 

13. Hike once a month, This is also something I've said I wanted to do year after year, and I just get too busy, (lazy). And just don't make time, this year I went hiking 3 times. I want to enjoy my backyard, challenge my body and breathe in the fresh air.

14. Go on a cruise. I've only been one cruise in my life but I absolutely loved it. It was so fun. We saw dolphins, otters, played bingo, saw shows and had great food! I would love to go on another cruise this year even if it was just a weekend cruise! If you haven't been on a cruise yet I definitely recommend it. For couples, singles and families big or small this is a great way to spend vacation. 

15. Lavender Festival,  Do you love lavender too? I am obsessed with it, it smells so great and helps with headaches and anxiety. There is a Lavender Festival up north in Washington State and I've been dying to go since I found out 3 years ago. But it's only for one weekend and I always realize too late. But not this year! 

16. Learn 12 new meals,  This year we got BLUE APRON and just fell in love! Although it's been out of out budget for for the last few months, I loved learning new recipes! There are so many meals that you can make that are quick, easy, and cheap. I want to be able to learn 1 new meal a month, whether it be breakfast, lunch or dinner! Have a meal you're wanting to try? Lets share!

17. Get a grown-up wardrobe,  I'm nearly 26 and my clothes don't show it! I don't want to wear pant suits or heals everyday but something that's sophisticated enough for someone who nearing the end of her twenties. The reason I haven't gotten an adult wardrobe is because I haven't loved my body in a very long time but that is also changing this year. 

18. Learn to make kombucha,  Just a few months ago I fell in love with Kombucha. Have you had it? It's so healthy and delicious too! From what I've read online it's not to hard to make! I would love to make my own, and be able to gift it to my friends and family.  They even have kombucha cocktails! 

19. Wild Life Park, there are a few here in Washington that looks so fun! Big parks where wild animals walk around a natural habitat. You get to feed them an drive around in your car! They aren't caged up and really seem to enjoy it! If you know otherwise please let me know! 

20. Braces,  so silly but my smile has always been a insecurity of mine.  I had braces as a teenager because my smile was all crazy but I didn't receive a retainer so my teeth shifted! I'm hoping to get Invisilign to help my inner confidence. But I know that it won't change who I am and I'll still be loved no matter if I get the braces or not. 

21.  Pay off student loans,  Loans are so soul sucking! Pay, pay, pay and they never seem so disappear. How does that work? Wouldn't we all love for one less bill? Well I'm determined to end the vicious cycle. I have 4 separate loans with Navient student loans and I will pay one off at a time through-out the year so that it's a little less over whelming.

22. Start or join a book club, I love to read! But sometimes I need more accountability in order to make time to actually read the books I love.  While a lot of my friends do enjoy reading the same books as me, we are never reading them at the same time. I would love to join or even start something where we can all take time for something that we love and talk about it with people who enjoy as much as we do! 

23. Volunteer more, I am blessed beyond belief and I have more then I'll ever need. And not everyone has the benefit of having a roof, a car or a food in their bellies. There is always a way to help out in your community and we never do enough! 

24. Look into fostering kids, I have always wanted the opportunity to improve a child's life. There are so many kiddo's that need help, whether it be for a month or a year. There are so many kids out there that don't always get a warm bed and a hug that the end of the day. I hope one day I'm lucky enough to be a foster mom.

25. Go to North Carloina, Tyler's dad moved to North Carolina almost 2 years ago and we have yet to visit. It's just so far and expensive. They might not be there too much longer and we would have missed the chance to see how they've lived in North Carolina, and lets face it there will never be a reason for me to go to there if they leave. As beautiful it is, I just don't think it'll be on my must see list. 

26. Run in a marathon or a fun run!  There are so many different kinds that look so fun, and they usually have a charity involved! I'm not a runner at all but I would love to be able to at least check it off my list. A glow in the dark run, a color run, running around lakes, beast cancer runs. I will pick something that's close to my heart and push myself into something I've never been able to do. 

These are the 26 things I hope to accomplish this year, and I'll do my my best to get through each goal. But it's absolutely okay if I can't complete all 26! That makes for a very full, yet fun year. Getting older means I have more goals each year. I'm growing, we're growing and not every goal we make needs to be so huge but it needs to be something that will make us happy and that we've always wanted to do. This is me in my 26th chapter and this is how I want to spend it. I hope I can share my chapter with you, and learn about you next chapter too!
 


​XOXO

​

 I love reading and I'm actually in the process of writing my own book for you all to read. But I want to tell you about a really inspiring book that I read last year! The book was called, Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes. I never really knew who she was, I knew she was a writer of some powerful television shows, some of which I had never seen. But I knew that I liked Grey's Anatomy and that her other productions looked very interesting. I don't really remember what made me buy this book, but as soon as I got it I could not put it down. I read it cover to cover in just a few days, I loved it. And I've since read it 2 more times, I just can't get enough. 


Let me tell you a little bit about what this incredible book, it's a little bit of an auto-biography and explains how hard Shonda worked her whole life, worked though hardships and being a single mother of three. Who realizes she's been saying no and not truly living to the best of her ability. And I've found myself in the same boat more often than not, lately. I say no, because I'm comfortable with staying home or because I'm feeling lazy after a long week. While it is normal and natural to want to relax you also need to get out in the world and say yes! 

Through the book you get to grow with Shonda, starting with her social anxiety, depression and unhealthy lifestyle and watch her bloom into someone who glows with confidence and pure happiness. 

You will learn that using your voice is so powerful, don't be afraid to vocally express yourself. Because doing things that you don't want to do just because someone else wants you to do them won't make you happier at all. You need to be able what you want to do as well as what you're obligations are whether it be for work or home. I'm not telling you to tell your boss no, every time they tell you to do something, that would just be silly. But if you have a different way of doing something, or just don't have the time to do that project don't be afraid to speak up and express yourself. Don't let them run you to the ground because you don't think that you can say no. Stand up for yourself in any situation because you may have an opportunity to not only change your life, but potentially help other people in similar position. 

You will also learn to love yourself in your own skin, even if you're not in where you want to be in your health journey you still need to love how far you have come and everything your body has done for you. Work everyday towards where you want to to be and try your best not to stress about it. Don't let people bring you down because you don't have the body they they want you to have. Do you know how how silly that is? We get down about how we look because it makes other people uncomfortable, because they don't want to look a the extra weight you have on your belly, or your small chest our your puffy eyes. Who cares? As long as you feel beautiful and you are happy what other people think should not effect how you feel about yourself. 

Thirdly, you will learn to grow closer with people you love. Get rid of all those nasty people who don't support you, you don't have your back and don't help you reach your dreams. You will get to see who is truly behind you when you start staying away from the bad energy and toxic relationships that have dragged you down or way too long. Sometimes we forget out worth and that tends to make us be pushed over and walked on because we just don't want the fight. We don't want to stand up for ourselves just to be shut down. We don't deserve that! We deserve love and joy every day of our lives and if we aren't finding it with the current people are are surrounding ourselves with then we need to let go and find some people who we can share this life with. So get together with those people you love and share some memorable experiences together. It will be so much more meaningful to live life with the people whom your heart loves. You all can grow and learn about them as well as have them learn about you. 

 
Lastly, love like you've never has a broken heart. Shonda didn't want to want to fall in love and she certainly never wanted to get married but  once she opened up her heart to the idea of loving again she wasn't opposed to the idea of getting married. She didn't keep her walls up and her heart closed. She was open to ideas about love and dating. Even if you've had your heart broken into a million pieces you have to get back on that horse and love again. Because how amazing does love feel? How great does it feel to love and to be loved? Don't deprive yourself of being loved just because you are scared of getting hurt. Love to love! 

I love this book and have officially decided that my 26th year is going to be my year of yes. Through my heart, my mind, my joy, family and experiences. I'm going to see and do things I've been to lazy and closed off to do thus far. I'm going to say goodbye to people who don't have my back. I will keep you posted throughout my year of yes. But I encourage you to take the leap of faith, trust yourself to love yourself! This book has taught me so much about myself and gave me hope about how far I can go in this world by just believing I can. You can change your life too by making a few changes and opening your mind, heart and soul to the possibility of a whole new world. Imagine the possibles of the next year and beyond. Do it! You don't need to life this life day by day without seizing the day, it's not fair to you! Say yes! And pick up this book and read it today, read it a million times.

I'm going to read it again this afternoon! I just can't get enough of this book! I loved how well I can relate to someone who is famous and well known, who is way more successful then I could ever hope to be. She has struggles just like you and I, she didn't like her body, and she liked watching TV after work, she had self doubt but she changed it all just by changing the way you think and keeping an open mind about trying new things with new people. 

Make a list of some of the people and things you need to close in this chapter and make another list off a few things you want to try and experience in this new chapter. This way you can visually have an idea of some of your next steps. 


I can't wait to hear all about your journey, and I hope it include reading this amazing book!
 
​

I definitely love to travel and see new places, meet people and taste new food. Although, I still have so much of the world to see, I have learned a lot in my years of road trips, flight trains and even cruises! Here are some helpful tips for your next trip!

Tip one: Whether or you're flying, driving, boarding a vessel or riding a train make sure you pack snacks and drinks! They are SO expensive on trips and sometimes just not convenient to get. So I ALWAYS pack snacks for the trip, waters, alcohol, tea, coffee and fruit. If you can manage to bring a cooler, do it! You will save a lot of money with this tip! 

Tip two: Always bring a first aid kit! You never know if you're going to step on glass or have heart burn when you're on a beach in Mexico. I am ALWAYS the one in the family who has everything you'll need from my first aid kit, ibuprofen, Tylenol, tums, band-aids, gauze, anti-bacterial cream, aloe, sun screen, chap stick, Cortisone, Benedryl, tweezers, thermometer and hydrogen peroxide.

Tip three:  Mini pocket router. While most of the time you go on vacation to unplug and turn off distractions sometimes you need the internet or maybe you have a blog and want to stay connected. Bringing a mini router is the best option you have just plug it into a internet jack!

Tip four:  PLAN PLAN PLAN, price things out, look into using discounts from your work, AAA or Costco. Make a budget and also set aside an emergency fund for the trip. In 3-4 weeks leading up to the trip, make a list of things you want to do and things you need to bring. When starting this step early, you are less likely to miss items!

Tip five:  Stay hydrated, you're going to a new place and your body might be all out of wack. The more you remember to drink water the better you will feel later, less headaches, less fatigue and less hangovers! With that being said, make sure every time you see a bathroom use it, I've been in too many situations when I didn't see another bathroom for hours.

Tip six: Take a picture of your luggage before you leave, it helps makes the process go so much faster then lost or damaged.

Tip seven: Do research on the area you'll be going and make sure you are fully aware about tipping, things that will get you a fine,  and ways to behave without offending the culture.


Well there you go, and I'm excited to keep you updated with more specific tips as I get to planning some trips near and far!

​XOXO N