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🌿 Nature scavenger hunt for kids AND TIPS FOR mindful MOMS

Last week, we went off-grid.


Like literally.


No cell service. No Wi-Fi. Just red rocks, pine trees, and a caravan of cousins running wild through Bryce Canyon, collecting rainbow-colored rocks, swimming in creeks, fishing with their uncles, and making core memories with dust on their knees and joy in their lungs.


It was our last big family trip before our oldest heads off to college (cue all the emotions), and while it was beautiful in all the expected ways, it was also messy in the very real mom life kind of ways.




Our toddler? She got sick right before we hit the road.


And when I say sick, I mean that kind of surprise you’re never quite ready for—even when you’re me, someone who tries to plan for every scenario.


So while the cousins were laughing over water balloons and belly flops, I spent most of the trip attending to the needs of a two-year-old who just wanted her mama. And somehow... I felt deep gratitude.


🍷 Then vs. Now: What Alcohol Used to Steal From Me

If this had been a few years ago, I know exactly how I would’ve felt:

  • Irritated that I was “missing out”

  • Resentful that I was stuck with the sick kid

  • Ready to drink because “I deserve it after all I do”

  • Frustrated with my husband for… well, just existing nearby while I was exhausted


Back then, I believed the only way to “have fun” was with alcohol. That it was my reward. That motherhood was just so much that I needed something to dull it all.

But alcohol never gave me more joy. It just blurred the beauty.


And the hard parts? They were still there—only now with a headache and shame hangover.


✨ This Time, I Was Present


This time, even with the mess, I laughed. I snuggled. I showed up.


I didn’t miss the real magic of the trip:🚗 Driving down the canyon with the windows down, my toddler’s blonde curls flying in the wind, laughing with pure, contagious joy.



These are the moments I used to miss—or fail to remember—when I was drinking.


And yes, I still overpack and try to prepare for everything. But even I didn’t see this coming.


Thankfully, I always keep a beach blanket in the car “just in case.” (Pro tip: Always keep the beach blanket.)


📝 Why I Made You a NATURE Scavenger Hunt FOR KIDS


After this trip, I felt inspired to share a simple tool to help you create your own core memories—with more connection, less stress, and zero pressure to be perfect.


It’s a free printable Nature Scavenger Hunt for Kids—perfect for camping trips, backyard adventures, or just something to get the kids outside while you take a breath.


There’s even a team challenge for older siblings to help little ones, plus non-sugar reward ideas (because bedtime is hard enough without a sugar crash).


But more importantly...

I made this for you—the mom who’s doing everything.
For the mom who’s ever poured a glass of wine just to make the chaos feel manageable.
For the mom who’s curious if maybe there’s a way to feel better without the wine.

Because I promise: the connection you’re craving isn’t at the bottom of your glass.


It’s out there—in the breeze, the laughter, the muddy shoes, and the unexpected snuggles.


📥 Download the Free Scavenger Hunt



Includes:

  • Printable checklist for kids

  • Mixed-age team challenge

  • Non-sugar reward ideas

  • A gentle grown-up reflection from me, a wellness coach and mom who’s been where you are


Wishing you fun, safe, and vomit-free travels.


Best, Stephanie Brislin

Certified This Naked Mind Coach

 
 
 

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