You know, one of the things I was scared about when I thought of becoming a single mom was outings. Sure, I’d been a stay-at-home mom for over 9 years when I got divorced, but I was in my element INSIDE the house. Playgrounds, parks, grocery stores, Target runs – that was easy too. But theme parks, zoos, places with large crowds. Nah.
So how do I combat that fear? I try to find the easy win. Low crowds + potential fun for the kids = easy win. It’s a bonus if it’s cheap, the kids get fed and it tires them out! **fist pump**
The choice this time: Strawberry Picking.
Living in Florida has is benefits…weather, sand, Mickey Mouse, and fresh produce. I found this U-pick farm on Facebook, luckily they were just opening for U-pick season that weekend. We grabbed some containers and bags out of the house (for most U-pick farms, you have to bring your own containers), took the 30 minute drive, and ended in Strawberry Love.
The kids received the picking instructions and got to work. *This is also the point where a lot of parents do a teachable moment about the growth cycle of a strawberry. I did not.
Fun Fact: Did you know a strawberry isn’t even a berry, but a banana is? That’s messed up right?
I digress.
The kids got to work. Side note: arrive early to get the best pick. We went down SO many rows. My youngest ran from the butterflies and bugs and asked to be picked up – a lot. I finally called time and we went to weigh and pay. Y’all. $7 for plenty of organic strawberries. It was a win in my book. Then they had vendors and more fresh produce…double win. All-in-all, it cost me less than $25 for food and memorable moments.
Now real talk. These are the moments I used to be afraid of doing alone. But one of the things I’ve learned over the years, is that many times, you’ll just have to do it afraid.
I talk about this (and many other topics) in my new course Covered: bringing clarity to the unknowns of divorce. It’s REALLY good, make sure you sign up before the end of March! Here’s the link to Covered. I’ll see you over there!