Nature is FREE & fun.

Today, my stepson (Mason), my niece (Bella) and myself went on a nature walk! It was really a lot of fun... I'm always trying to get the kiddos outdoors and away from electronics....Not only for them, but for myself too! It feels so good just to be outside and enjoying and embracing Gods beauty! So we decided to explore around our condo... We walked around the block until we ended up at the marina nearby and then walked back towards the condo and went for a dip in the pool! Now- we've walked this same path many times before.. but THIS time- we really took our time to notice all the little details in nature- and document with my camera....On our walk we encountered everything from giant crickets, to lizards, to Rollie Pollies and crabs....We snapped pictures of unique leaves, pinecones and birdhouses we discovered in the woods....It was a great time together and the best part- it didn't cost a thing!!!! I can remember as a kid- I'd play outside from sun up to sun down- and it was fun and free!!! I think we need to get kids out of the mindset of always having to do something- that cost money....Now don't get me wrong- I love going and doing- but with 4 kids I'm budgeting and cutting corners more than I ever have... And I did that ALOT with just 2 kids, as a single mom.....But I hate to see money thrown out the window- when it can be used for so much more.....I want to pass that along to these 4 precious souls God has entrusted us with... You can enjoy this beautiful life by just simply walking out of your front door- and embracing... and noticing.... beauty really does surround us............

Minus 2......again....

Yesterday I had to drive to Lagrange Georgia to drop off my littles with their dad....For 2 grueling weeks....I wonder if this will ever get easier?! In trying to find the positives- I am EXTREMELY thankful that they are older- and able to contact me through cellphones, facetime, ect...I literally think I would curl up and die if I couldn't see their sweet faces in a 2 week time span..... Another thankful tidbit- that they LOVE their daddy and are always so excited to see him....And I know he loves them.. Maybe not quite like Momma- but nonetheless, he loves them..... I just can never rest easy until they are in my arms again.... Oh the life of a divorced mom.....I'm in awe of the number of acquaintances I have had in just the past few months approach me about relational problems/possible pending divorces....Wanting my advice and opinion... I am not shy about telling them to do WHATEVER you can to save your marriage- especially if your partner is willing as well....Divorce is hard. It sucks. It is the hardest thing I've ever suffered through. And it will never be over- because Reese and I will always deal with the aftermath of it.. From our children- and from our own wounds...Yes, wounds heal- but the scars will always be there....I believe a couple can work anything out if both parties are willing... In each of our cases- our partner wasn't willing.. So divorce- not chosen by us- happened... I think God is now blessing us with our relationship together and I honestly have never been happier... But its still hard...As with any relationship... I feel blending a family whose had divorce on both sides needs extra special attention- and with that- LOTS and LOTS of prayers....  So-back to my littles....... I'll wait for their return- unfortunately, NOT at the beach- the forecast is RAIN all week...... But I think I can handle reading in my hammock chair- over looking the nearby ocean.....


But let me be honest- its not as glamorous as it all seems....My washer has been broke for almost a week- the laundry of 6 people is quickly overtaking the house- so loads of lovely laundry will most definitely be on my agenda as well.....


My youngest soon to be stepson, Mason, is here as well- his big brother is away at camp for the week... So we may go explore some this week- and see what we can get into......I'm thankful that even though my kiddos are away, I'm able to keep busy and keep my mind occupied....There is never a dull moment.......