TEACH YOUR KIDS THE IMPORTANCE OF UNPLUGGING

On Saturday, I went on my first hike in St. Thomas with Steve and the kiddos. We did the Magens Bay Trail. So here is something you need to know about me. I don’t normally enjoy walking or running. I mean, cars are just so much faster. Also, over the years, my love for the outdoors has seemed to dwindle a bit. When I was 16, I could play beach volleyball all day. Let’s just say that is no longer happening. This homebody reluctantly went outside today and did physical activity and had fun. There is hope for us yet!!!

It was hard and my body is sore but it was so much fun being plugged out from the world and being 100% plugged into the family. We planned to do the shorter trail but clearly missed some sort of sign so 45 minutes ended up being an hour and 30 minutes. Jackson led the way the first half and Eden the second half. I was so impressed. They didn’t complain at all and had so much energy the entire way. We did have a touchy situation with a hermit crab but it’ll make for funny memories down the road.

The absolute best part was the conversation. The things that came out of their mouths had me and Steve in stitches. At one point, Eden asked who thought this was a good idea and if we really knew where we were going. Turns out she was right to be concerned…lol. Jax was disappointed when he thought it was a nature walk because he was looking for something more dangerous. Lord, help us with these two.

Turns out I need to keep training to keep up with this bunch. We didn’t take the trail back down. Instead we walked down the road to the closest restaurant and Steve walked all the way back to down the car by himself. Thank you, Lord, for that man. I am already looking forward to doing it again. The sea bath at the end was the best I have had in a long time. There is nothing like cool saltwater massaging every muscle after a tough workout. For all you non-nature folks like me, shake off the cobwebs and try it again. It’s all about the company you choose so pick the right people and pack plenty of water in case you miss the marker like us. I am trying my best to say yes to spending more time with the people I care about and saying no to the stuff that won’t me feel fulfilled. All that ‘saying yes to the stress’ is over and done with.

Hope you can get outside with your people and find your love for nature again. I am still working on mine but our motto over here is one day at a time. Also, if you happen to be in St. Thomas, I would definitely recommend the Magens Bay Trail. Just wear a swimsuit and pick up lunch from Brooks Bar on the way back. You may have to order dinner too depending on how long it takes you to recover. Pots down tonight for sure. Stay healthy, friends!