Hello again!

Monday again?!  Crazy.

10 On Tuesday | Gratitude

Hello friends!

Long time no posts, but I'm hoping to get back on a more regular posting schedule.

Last week was very stressful and emotionally draining. But I'm glad it's over and a new week is upon me.

I think, more often than not, we can get wrapped up in our day-to-day lives and forget what we have  to be thankful for.

Today I'll be linking up with Karli at Sept. Farm for 10 on Tuesday on 10 things I'm ever so grateful for.

Ready. Get set. Here goes..

[1] My daughter.  I know, I know, I know...isn't everyone grateful for their children?  I feel my daughter is my little saving Grace.  If it wasn't for her, I perhaps wouldn't be where I'm at today.  Am I where I thought I'd be? No way! But I do believe everything happens for a reason and I believe she was put in my life at just the right time.

[2] My family. I truly mean this too. I have the best, supportive family anyone could ever ask for. They've given me support, love, shelter...anything really to help me in times of need but also in the good times.  I couldn't have asked for a better family in life.

[3] Friends. Over the past 31 years of my life, I have developed some of the best friendships and bonds a girl could ever make.  I have friendships from elementary school, middle school, high school, college years, and co-workers.  Each of these people hold a special place in my heart.  Each of these friends have played a specific role in my life and I am ever so grateful for these friendships I've made over the many years.

[4] My pets. Just like my child, I love my fur-babies!  They are extremely stress relieving for me.  The fact that every time I walk through the door after coming home, they welcome me like it's the first time they've seen me. 

[5] Life's challenges. Life gives us all challenges.  I'm thankful for these challenges life has thrown my way to allow me to grow and think. They've made me the person I am, allowed me to figure out what I do and don't want in life, and where I'm headed.  Everything happens for a reason, right?!

[6] My job. I've been at my current position for 3 months now.  Yes, it's still new to me, but I can honestly say, I enjoy the work I do.  Not only is my job enjoyable and I get to work from home, but it allows me to provide for my daughter and I.  It's allowed me to provide a great, reliable vehicle, health insurance, food on the table, clothes on our backs, and shelter.

[7] Target. Seriously, can I get an AMEN on this one?  Target is now a one-stop shopping (for the most part).  Food, produce, kitty litter, makeup, pharmacy, clothes, shoes, cards, lightbulbs, picture frames, cleaning supplies, diapers, movies, TVs, toys, and kid clothes.  As a mom, it's the best place ever!  And if you're lucky...sometimes they have a Starbucks. Inside.  For convenience.

[8] Music. I swear, music mixed with sunshine, can be a super power and heal just about anything!  I love the fact that I can put on classical, rap, country, alternative, or pop....it's bound to make my day that much better!

[9] Dark chocolate. Good for the soul. Good for the heart. Good everything. Enough said.

[10] A good hair day. I think it goes without being said, a good hair day, can make an entire day that much more fabulous!  What's even better, a good makeup day.  It's like the inner confidence comes outs. #watchoutworld

What are you grateful for?  Share below!

Confessional Thursday | I'm Not Wearing Green

Thursday.
March 17th.
[say what? St. Patty's Day?!]

That's right, it's Confessional Thursday!

I'll be linking up with Jessica at The Newly.

Today, I confess....

[] My newest favorite snack: baby carrots dipped in crunchy peanut butter {don't judge - it's pretty tasty}

[] I've never been a huge fan of St. Patrick's day in all honesty.  I like the color green, but I don't wear a lot of it.  Actually, I own one green cardigan.

[] ...and no, I'm not wearing the green cardigan today either. #pinchme

[] It felt so good to have a mommy/toddler playdate with my old co-worker last night.  At her house. With her 2.5 year old and my 2 year old. We swear, we are sisters from another mister - so much in common...it's really kind of odd.

[] You know those "memories" that Facebook likes to let you know that you posted about in the past? Like "6 years ago, you posted this picture {insert photo}?  I've been deleting all the past things that remind of my horrible past {i.e. the ex}  Who needs to know that stuff even existed?  Not me...

[] I've had a lot on my mind lately.  A lot of things have been weighing heavy on my mind. Sometimes I just wish I could hop on a plane, fly somewhere tropical, be pampered and served fruity drinks with little umbrellas. I swear, it's the umbrellas that make life that much better.

Your getting warm fuzzies just thinking about this umbrella in your drink...beach side, huh?!

[] I cried got teary eyed at the proposal on the Bachelor's last episode of this season.  I just love Lauren B. I know, it's all fake and made up (or at least thats what they tell me #ThanksGrandma) but it's so sweet to think there are guys out there like that. And relationships as cute as that. A girl can dream, right?!

[] Remember when I did a lot of cleaning one weekend?  Well I found several gift cards.  One of which was a Barnes and Noble one for $50 bucks!!!  I mean, I do like reading...certain genres of books of course.  So I took it upon myself and ordered 5 books the other night.  I'm excited that they all shipped yesterday and should be here soooooon!   Let the reading fest begin...

[] Lastly, I feel like the luckiest mom in the entire world to be blessed with such a sweet little girl.  Not that I didn't feel like that before, but the last two weeks, I've really felt a deeper feeling as having her for my daughter. I just couldn't imagine my life without her.  I mean, I could imagine life without a child {hello, condo in LA, NY, or waterfront Portland Oregon-duh, driving around in a not-so-kid friendly car}, but I couldn't imagine life without her as my child. Her and I belong together. Like peas and carrots; peanut butter and jelly; chocolate and caramel; coffee and scones...you get the point!

Have a fabulous St Patrick's day!

Weekending: Accomplishing the list

HELLLLOOOOO FRIENDS!

Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

I'll be linking up Biana over at B Loved Boston.
[Head over and link up too! It'll be one big link party.]

One word sums up my weekend: Productive.

I got a ton of stuff done.

Last Monday morning I woke up after an emotional and draining weekend with a different kind of feeling.  A feeling of - it's about me and McKenna, getting things done, and getting life on a different [better] track.

And this last week was just that - no cell phone in the evening [I've grown to hate talking on the phone now...even texting can annoy me, but at least I can pick and choose when I want to respond. Sounds bad huh?!  Eh, I need some away time from electronics], no outside distractions in the evenings while doing the evening routine with the little one, cleaner eating habits, and figuring out a routine that works best for the little and I.

Friday I had started a list of things I needed to accomplish over the weekend.
Things I had been wanting and needing to get done for quite some time.
[Although my list of 'to-dos' never truly end, these have been weighing heavy on my shoulder - small tasks, seem to take a backseat on the day to day life, but not this weekend]

I got most everything completed this weekend that I've been needing/wanting to accomplish on the list...except a few.

And it feels amazing!

I feel like I can think more clearer, get more things done and now am ready for the next weekend of challenges: figuring out what I want in life, having some more 'me time' and getting my study on for the next adventure in life.

Do you ever just feel that your 'happiness tank' isn't full?
Or even half full?
Yeah, I've been feeling that way for a long time now...which is why I've decided to take the bull by the horns and concentrate on my little and I for a little bit.
#TimeForChange

The weekend brought us all kinds of weather - sunshine, clouds, rain, down pours, hail, thunder and lightening...just about everything except snow and ice.  

#TypicalOregonWeather

The newest obsession: mom's new umbrella.  Because it's that cool to carry an umbrella in the rain and leave mom without an umbrella.

#TheLittleThings

Oh, and remember how I was working on Phase 1 of the South Beach?
So that went very well all week, until Saturday when a Baja Fresh black bean/cheese burrito was in order.  Since then I haven't had any sweets.  It's hard to complete this kind of detox when your the only one who's being super strict on foods in the house.
But it's a good kick start for me!
#YahMe

Move over world...I've got my sassy pants on!  There's no stopping me now!

Horrible selfie, but this is what I felt like Sunday afternoon after getting [most] everything accomplished this weekend!  

#DayOldMakeup

#DayOldHair

[I did shower though]

However, what you don't see is the venti Starbucks on the coffee table.

#MotivationAtItsFinest

Here's to an awesome week!  I've got my list going for the next weekend to come of things to get accomplished!

#ImOnFire

What are some things you do to make your happiness tank full?

How was your weekend? 

Share details below - I'd love to hear your ideas and stories from the weekend! 

Weekending: Berry Bowl & an Epiphany

Happy Monday Friends!

Another week, another dollar, another chance for success.

I'll be linking up with Biana over at B Loved Boston for the link up party [go link up too].

This weekend was another weekend with nothing planned.
And it was nice.

I decided to head out to Janelle James Boutique at Bridgeport to see all the new pre-Spring items they've recently got in.

Aaaannnnd to see my sister [it was a win-win situation].

While at Bridgeport, I stopped and had a berry bowl at The Bowl & Berry.
[Which by the way, is super delicious if your ever in the Portland area. It's like Jamba Juice - on steroids.]

What's Up First Wednesday in March

Holy Schmoly....
First Wednesday of March (*gasp* already) and I felt like I haven't blogged in forever.
[Well...technically, it's been awhile. A long while at that]

Welcome friends!

Since it's been a little while for me, I'll be doing my own little 'What's Up Wednesday' version today.

What I've been up to:
Lately, 'traveling lady' sums up my life.  I've been to Tacoma, Washington to Long Beach, California and then came back from Eugene, Oregon today.  It's safe to say, I'm excited to be 'home' and back snuggling with my little one.

Also, we've finally finished up the birthday and holiday season around this household...and I am beyond excited for that to finally be over.  We celebrated my little's birthday the weekend of the 21st and 22nd. Fun, but exhausting.  Celebration dinner at my dads house and then family birthday get together at my house.

Shhh....I Had !A Ton of Carbs & Sugar Yesterday

Confessional Thursday...

One of my favs!

I'll be linking up with Jessica for Thursday Confessions.

Here are some confessions...

[] Up until Tuesday night...I had never spent the night in a hotel room. Alone.  Was I scared? Eh, not so much. I was super excited...I was about to be adulting on my own. I'm so growing up!

[] I hate public restrooms. I will purposefully not drink anything if I know I won't be around a good, clean bathroom (i.e. public restroom).

[] I still keep up with the Kardashians. I know, I know...the show has turned into a train wreck over the years, but I absolutely love Khloe and Kourtney.

[] I have a hoarding issue compulsive disorder with buying things because it was on sale...and never using it.  After cleaning the bedroom, I found close to 20 gift cards - Nordstrom, Craft Warehouse, JoAnn's Fabric, massages {yes, more than 1}, restaurants....the list goes on. Guess I'll be going shopping at Nordy's soon!

[] I exited 4 times off I-5 in the Tacoma/Olympia area in search of a Starbucks.  Let me rephrase that...a convenient, easy to get to drive-thru Starbucks. And was unsuccessful.  I was desperate for a latte. But, I prevailed! Finally! Let's just say...the drive home last night was way more successful with a coffee in hand.

[] Yesterdays food choices consisted of: carbs, sugar, coffee, salad, carbs, water, 1/2 sandwich, more carbs.  My body was on carb overload. Let the detox begin - next week after the final birthday of the month comes to an end.

What are some of your confessions?  Share below!
Hope everyone has a wonderful Thursday!

Show & Tell Tuesday: Pin-spiring

Pinterest...my main love in life since 2011. 

A dear friend introduced me way back when....back when you had to be "invited" to join.

And I've been hooked since.

I used to pin a ton of craft and sewing ideas when I had more free time, but over the years...it has evolved to just about anything that catches my eye.

Today I'll be linking up with Andrea @ Momfessionals for a little Show and Tell Tuesday: Favorite Pinterest pins!

[Eeek, I'm excited]

Favorite Crafts

I've made a few of these for friends and well as myself. Super cute and inexpensive!

Source

I've even made this little one for myself and absolutely love it!!!

Source

Source

Favorite Quotes:

Source

Source

Me Everyday...

Source

Source

INK I'D LIKE TO GET

Source

Huge Beatles fan...

Source

Source

FOOD

Made this a few times - so flipping delicious!!!

Source

This is my quick desert for any occasion. I've even used Rolos...

Source

Source

Source

FASHION & BEAUTY

Source

Source

[I will master this look...]

Source

[I've done purple a time or 2 like this....love!!!]

Source

[This outfit makes me happy - polka dots with a pop of color!]

Source

Source

HOME DECOR

Source

Source

Source

Well...there you have it. 

My favorite list on Pinterest as of today.  

[it changes all the time - go figure]

Pinterest is my #1 go to app/site when I need inspiration, bored, waiting in line, at the Dr's office, need a quick idea, etc.

What are some of your favorite pins on Pinterest?

Follow me @ A Little NW Charm

Confessional Thursday...For I Have Sinned {Maybe}

Logged in this morning and my old coworker/friend linked up with an awesome blog for Confessional Thursdays.
[Thanks Jess at Jessica's Little Bits of Joy]



Jess at The Newly is putting on a fab link party - come join!
Sounds interesting huh?!
I thought so too.

Here goes.

I Confess...

[] This morning I went to Starbucks again (shocker). Not because I had to, but because I enjoy pulling up to a window and having my coffee made for me.  I could very well come straight home from dropping the little one off at daycare and make my own...but seriously, it's not as good. Thankfully, I still have a ton of $$ left only gift cards.  Just hope it doesn't run out anytime soon....

[] While ordering my drink at Starbucks...I ordered an old-fashioned donut too. Best guilty pleasure on the ride home after a loooooong night with the little one last night! All alone. No child. No dogs. No phones. [This could be the culprit of the Michelin tire I've been carrying around] #momlife

[] While working at home this week...I've had old re-runs of Laguna Beach and Teen Mom running in the background.  Hey...back in the day, those shows rocked! [and still kinda do]

[]  I haven't styled my hair all week this week.  Ponytails it is. Wet hair and all.  That's how bad it's been this week feeling run down. #sicknessbegone

[] With that being said...I haven't put any makeup on either since Saturday. Eek.

[] Stopped by the store yesterday morning for some EmergenC. Ended up in the beauty aisle...just browsing.  You never know what you'll find.

[] I love Valentine's day. I just think red roses are so cliche.

There you have it.
Some of my week's confessions.
Boy...do I feel better.

What are some of your confessions?

Share below!

Wednesday....What's Up?

What I'm excited for:

Last week I was asked if I wanted to attend some trade shows for work...which meant travel. Um...yes!  Count me in! I'm super excited about the (very soon) upcoming work travel scheduled.

Tacoma, WA.

Long Beach, CA.

Eugene, OR.

All West coast travels.

What I'm wearing:

Jeans. Maternity tank with built in bra. Sweatshirt. White crew socks. Latte in hand.

No makeup. Although I did straighten my hair #score

I'm a hot mess right now.  

Don't judge.

Woke up not feeling too hot, took the child to the babysitters, and am now working from home.

Amen for working from home.

I feel like death warmed over.

#HotCoffeePlease

What I'm watching:

As of now, I've been catching up on The Bachelor, Younger, Teen Mom OG.

I just love this show!

Catelynn and Tyler in Hawaii?  #jealous

And how are their kids now turning 7!?  I mean, 7!  Gees.

Oh...and Reba.

Does anyone else watch Re

ba?  

That show cracks me up!

Barbara Jean is the best.

If you haven't seen it, I highly suggest watching an episode or 3.

What I'm reading:

I hate to admit this, but I'm still reading the same book I've been reading for a few months now.

With my little one, it's hard to find "quiet" time around here.

So, occasionally, I'll flip through Pinterest late at night or read some of my favorite blogs.

That's the extent of my reading right now...since that's what time allows.

What I'm dreading:

I'm really, really dreading this cold I feel coming on.  

Woke up this morning with a sore throat.

Picked up some more EmergenC.

I feel super exhausted.

Hopefully, I'll be able to shake this tiredness and sore throat square in the butt soon! 

This is my favorite flavor in EmergenC. I mix with about 3-4 ounces of water, stir with a spoon, let fizz for about 30 seconds...and then chug.

Tastes way better than with 8 ounces of water.

Just saying...

What we're eating:

Lately, a lot of roasted veggies.

Brussel sprouts.

Carrots.

Butternut squash.

Tossed with a little olive oil, sprinkled with salt/pepper (or any other kind of seasoning).

Bake in oven.

BAM. Healthy side dish!

What I'm listening to:

As I type this right this very second...I am listening to "When I Come Around" by Green Day.

Taking it back to the 90's - yo!

I usually put iHeart radio on during the work day...either to my Sum41, Kesha, or Weezer station.

What we've been up to:

Birthdays. Birthdays. & Crafts.

Seriously, my sister, mine and my daughter's birthdays all fall within a 30 day span after the holidays.

And, lately, my aunt has been coming over to have me help her assemble 100+ invitations for an event she's part of. 

(the crafty side lives!)

What I'm annoyed by:

The fact that my child still doesn't sleep through the night.

That's a tough one for me, especially because I require about 8-10 hours of sleep a night.

Which, does not and has not happened in several years.

It's a slow adjustment, but man...it's tough!

#patience

Hope everyone has a WONDERFUL Wednesday!