Life is an Adventure

Our family every Summer for about 7 years now packs up the car and heads North from Florida to the Blue Ridge mountains. It's a beautiful escape from our everyday routines and responsibilities. As much as we love sunny Florida and its picturesque beaches, the mountains really are our happy place as a family. Life moves at a different pace up here. No rushing to work or school. And although there are still dishes and laundry to be done and meals to cook, my days do not feel monopolized by housework. I can breathe a little easier without the weight of everyday tasks on my shoulders. The cell service is a little spotty most places as well, which is an extra bonus for me. I feel it is much easier to disconnect and feel more present with my family when I am not constantly bombarded by the noise of technology. It forces me to slow down and just be.

Yet, the reality is that no matter where you go, there you are. Removing myself from my typical life doesn't change my problems or my triggers. Even here, in this beautiful place, I still find myself triggered into anger or frustration when I have to repeat myself too many times to the kids or they relentlessly bicker with one another in the backseat of the car. No amount of beautiful scenery can change my heart. Only God can do that.

Being aware of this truth has freed me from the "grass is greener" mentality that sometimes creeps in. Especially as you watch others live out their Pinterest lives on social media. I'm working really hard to overcome those yucky parts of me that come out in stressful situations. Allowing myself time alone each morning (even on vacation) sitting in God's presence and setting my heart and mind for the day is a great start. Learning to take all the beautiful moments, soak those in, and ponder them in my heart. Not allowing the bad attitudes or stressful moments to seep their way into the overall experience. It is how I can still find joy even when things don't go as planned or a kid ends up with a stomach bug or we get lost in the woods.

I've come to learn that traveling with children is an adventure. Not relaxing by any means, but just like life, filled with highs and lows. Ups and downs. Joyous and sorrowful and frustrating. Your location may provide temporary reprieve from your problems, but until you truly allow God to work and move and heal your heart, no matter where you are, you will still feel an angst. An emptiness that can't be filled by anything of this world. Only your Creator can fill the void in your heart and soul. It's a place put there by Him that only He can fill.

There is nothing wrong with seeking grand adventures. Clearly my family and I love traveling and exploring this beautiful planet. All those adventures can be used to draw you closer to your Creator if you allow them to. All those longings in your heart for beauty and wild and love are just your heart's longing for what is to come. For your place in Heaven. Drawing you nearer to the truth of this grand design and your place in it. You are not an accident. You are an intricate and important part of an amazing masterpiece.

No matter where you find yourself today, remember, God created you. On purpose and for a purpose. May every adventure in this life draw you nearer to the beautiful master Creator who designed your very own soul. Seek Him first and you will discover wonders beyond your wildest dreams. Find joy in the journey that God has set before you.

Love you mama!