Spontaneous, Spectacular, Saturday

Martie was working today and Taylor wasn't home. That left me and the kiddos alone for this beautiful Saturday. We started the morning off at Tabitha's 9:00 am T-ball game. We all cheered on our star and enjoyed the honeysuckles surrounding the ballfield.

It was far too nice to go straight home. After a rainy week and lots of indoor time, I decided to find something for us to do. Strawberries!!! Yes!!! Perfect!!! When you have 6 kids you learn fast that you can't plan as much as you would like. Some things are better when they're spontaneous. I only told the children to stay buckled while I ran in the house to grab the camera and some baskets. We were then off to Jean's Berry Patch. By the time we arrived they had guessed where we were going. Unfortunately, we pulled in to park only to discover the strawberries were "sold out." At a berry patch that just means picked through for the day.

I immediately asked the children if they wanted to go on an adventure. (That means I have nothing else planned) They were disappointed about the berry patch, but excited to see what lie ahead. Being so near Jordan Lake, I decided a hike was in store. I drove to the nearest and only gas station and picked up lunch. (Potato chips, peanut butter crackers, cheese crackers, and drinks)

We then pulled off the side of the road onto a gravel path. This led straight to the water where there was a pier and several fishermen. This was a familiar spot, meaning I'd been there once. The girlscout in me came alive. I used one of the baskets I'd brought for strawberries and packed our "lunch", drinks, our small first aid kit, a couple diapers and wipes, and my bible.

Then we set off toward the woods. I loved seeing Ethan step up when daddy wasn't around. He was trooper. We took turns taking care of Seth and holding the basket.

 We hiked and talked and hiked... We found a great spot to stop and eat. 

Healthy lunch!

 After eating the kids and I found a perfect spot to sit in the sun, play with the water, and in some dirt. That's when I decided it was a perfect time to read God's Word to them. I read Psalm 104. The chapter starts off saying, "Bless the Lord, O my soul! O Lord my God, You are very great..."It goes on to talk about creation and how the Lord cares over all His works. I asked the kids to look around and tell me some things they see that God created. We continued by praising Him and singing a bit.

 During our hike we only had to face 7 ticks (that I could find so far) and one snake! I only screamed (out loud and really loud) at the first tick that I saw (crawling on me). By the 7th I had complete dominion over those little blood suckers, crushing their little heads with anything I could find. (bottle cap, rock, and even my nail) EEEEKKKKK!!! Did I ever mention how much I despise ticks. They are certainly left from the plagues. I never saw the snake for myself. But I totally believe Ethan. I don't recall ever seeing him that scared. I lined the children up, went ahead of them, and we walked briskly on the trail, watching our every step.

At the end of our hike we went around and said what was our favorite part of the day. Mine of course, was spending this precious and priceless time with my children. In the end, ticks and all, I sing with the Psalmist:

"Bless the Lord, O my soul, Praise the Lord!" Psalm 104:35