It’s finally consistently warm here, and the worst of the pollen is over. If you didn’t know, NC pollen in April is brutal — the pine trees puke a foggy yellow dust on everything, and it is virtually inescapable. My whole family is allergic to that much pollen, and so it’s just a really tough time for us. But, thank God, we are over it, yes and amen, and just in time to enjoy Spring before the heat of Summer bakes us to a crisp.

The other day my sweet neighbor friend invited my kids and me to her house for a Butterfly Release. She had studied Painted Lady caterpillars with her preschool class, and they had formed their chrysalises and were ready to emerge as beautiful new butterflies any day. This has now become a treasured tradition, as she’s invited us to join her in this endeavor the last few Aprils, and we love her for it.

I am so excited to be joining back up with my friends Lily and Amanda at The Hybrid Home in launching their very own mastermind group for bloggers. ‘The Oak Grove Collective’ is a private Facebook group that aims provide a safe place for gathering, sharing, and encouraging other bloggers in their social media adventures.

I’m sharing this because I’m coming out of a tough 18 month season of friendship, and while I know my worth is not found in my friends, I can’t deny it’s wounded my pride some! I hope you’ll find encouragement, too!