I-20 Nature Preserve

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and I still have this little cold. It is kind of amazing that things that are suppose to be enjoyable, can so quickly turn into stress - and so much more. Sadly, I am wishing the holidays away, because I miss the simplicity of it we once had, now it just stressful and at times frustrating.

We are having a Thanksgiving lunch with Nate's family, and we are in charge of desserts, so pies and cupcakes - that is if I can kick this cold and muster up the energy to do anything.

I have had this cold for about three weeks now - it goes away for like a day where I feel fantastic and like I can conquer the world, and them boom, the next day it is back with a vengeance. I'm looking forward to a quiet weekend with my kids - having some quality time, and just being together. That is my favorite way to spend any holiday.

So on one of these "good" days we decided to venture out the I-20 Nature Preserve. I first discovered this little gem, just after we moved her (gosh three years ago) in an desperate effort to find adventure and familiarity when everything seemed to spin out of control.

It is so beautiful there, and sometimes I just need some nature for some clarity. For a hot minute I get to forget that I truly live in the middle of nowhere, and that well nothing worked out like we wanted or expected.

The kids love this place, and it is stunning (well as stunning as you'll get in West Texas) in the fall.

There is suppose to be a bunch of wildlife, but we only saw a ton of frogs, ducks, birds, and some butterflies this time. I think the fact that Hayleigh can't be quiet to save her life, played a roll in this as well.

I love these two and the sweet little bond they share. I do hope that they'll be the best of friends forever. Watching them grow together, and how tender they can be towards each other simply melts my heart, and just brings so much joy and thanksgiving within.

It was just such a gorgeously beautiful day. It was actually just what I needed even if I woke up sick and sicker the following day.

Look at the fall colors - it is obviously not as impressive as places like Boston - but then again this is what I have to work with ;)

So we had all fall with a little side of spring - flowers. It was fantastic, and of course Hayleigh and I couldn't have been more excited. All the girl wanted was for one of the butterflies to land on her finger....

It was even sweeter because Nate was able to spend the day with us, and well we don't get a lot of those days - so when we do we soak it up, we hoard it, and we cherish it.