The Beginning of Something Rooted: A New Chapter in My Life—And Maybe Yours Too

I have something vulnerable and powerful to share: my newest book, Rooted: Finding Real Love in a Fake World, is officially complete and waiting to be released.

This book has been living in my heart for years. It’s not just pages and chapters—it’s pieces of me. It’s everything I’ve learned about heartbreak, healing, over-explaining, people-pleasing, trauma, red flags, and finally—real love.

In a world where filters, ghosting, and hookup culture are normalized, Rooted is a call back to what’s real. It’s for the ones who have been told they’re “too sensitive” or “too much,” and have wondered if lasting love even exists anymore.

It’s not a dating guide. It’s not another list of dos and don’ts. It’s an invitation.

✨ An invitation to heal.
✨ To reflect.

✨ To reclaim your standards.

✨ To prepare for love that doesn’t require shrinking yourself.

Each chapter includes real talk, reflection prompts, and journal exercises—because this isn’t a book you just read. It’s a journey you take.

💬 If you’ve ever asked:

• “Why do I keep falling for the wrong ones?”

• “Am I broken, or is dating just this hard?”

• “Will I ever feel seen and chosen without pretending?”

Then this book is for you.

The official Amazon link is still on its way—but I couldn’t wait to start this conversation. If any part of this message spoke to you, comment below, share it, or just follow along. When the book officially launches, I’ll be sharing it everywhere.

➡️ Follow for updates, sneak peeks, and healing tools: seasonsoflifecampground.com ➡️ Sign up for my newsletter and be the first to know when Rooted goes live.

Let’s grow something stronger—together. 🌳

#RootedBook #ComingSoon #MentalHealthAwareness #HealingJourney #RealLove #DatingWithDepth #SeasonsOfLife #AuthorLife #SLBradleyBooks

The Stories That Heal Us- Why I Started Sharing on Etsy and Youtube.

There was a time in my life when I felt invisible.

    Like I was screaming into the world, but no one heard me. I spent years hiding pieces of myself just to keep the peace. But slowly, through healing, journaling, and lots of growing pains—I began to reclaim those pieces.

And that’s why I started writing stories again.

Not just any stories—stories that feel like medicine for the soul. Stories that remind people they're not broken. That beauty still blooms after the storm. That you can lose everything you thought you needed and still become someone stronger, softer, and more whole.

My Etsy shop was born from that healing. I wanted a place where someone could stumble upon a digital download and feel like the universe left them a love note.

                                    My Newest Short Story

I just added a new piece called "The Girl Who Grew Through Winter".
It’s about heartbreak, quiet growth, and the moment you realize you're not just surviving—you’re blooming.

It’s the kind of story you might read on a quiet morning with tea in hand and tears in your eyes... not from pain, but from finally feeling seen.

“Not everything that stops blooming is dying.”
— The Girl Who Grew Through Winter

 Mental Health Matters—Every Day, Not Just in May

As someone who lives with anxiety and has walked through dark seasons, I know how lonely it can feel. That’s why every word I write is rooted in empathy. You're not alone. You’re never too far gone. And your softness is not your weakness—it’s your gift.

Come Walk With Me

I’d love for you to explore my growing collection of heart-healing short stories. Each one is written with intention, warmth, and truth. 

👉 Visit my Etsy shop here: Seasons of Life Creations

You are not behind. You are not broken.

You are growing—even when it’s quiet. 

Why I’m Creating a Children’s Book Series That Teaches Life Skills Through Storytelling

 HELLO!!! I hope the day is finding you well,

As a mom, skills trainer, and children’s book author, I’ve seen firsthand how much our kids are navigating emotionally—often without the tools they need to express or manage those feelings. That’s why I’m combining my two passions—creative storytelling and mental health education—into something I believe could really make a difference: a brand-new children’s book series paired with a life skills curriculum.

Why This Series Matters

In today’s world, kids are dealing with big feelings, peer pressure, anxiety, and more—all while trying to learn math and spelling. But what about the life skills that help them cope, communicate, and grow confident in who they are?

That’s where this new series comes in. My upcoming books are designed to do more than entertain—they’ll teach kids how to navigate their emotions, build self-esteem, express themselves, and handle real-life challenges, all in a way that’s gentle, engaging, and age-appropriate.

What’s Coming

I’m currently working on two new children’s books, both of which will pair with a fun and interactive Outschool class designed for kids ages 6–11. These stories will feature lovable characters and relatable situations that open up conversations about emotions, friendships, self-control, and healthy habits.

But I didn’t stop there—I’m also creating a printable life skills curriculum that goes along with the books. Whether you're a parent, homeschooler, or educator, you’ll be able to use these lessons to guide children through what they’ve learned in the stories in a meaningful, memorable way.

Created From the Heart 💖

This project was born out of my own experience working with students who struggle with anxiety, low self-esteem, and emotional expression. I wanted to create something fun and meaningful that helps kids realize they’re not alone—and gives them tools to thrive emotionally and socially.

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This is just the beginning!
Follow along for more updates, sneak peeks, and behind-the-scenes as I bring these stories and lessons to life. Details coming soon!

📌 Don’t miss a thing:

• 👉 Follow me on Pinterest for inspiration and project updates

• 👉 Check out my Etsy shop for printables and resources coming soon

Thank you for being here. Together, we can help the next generation grow strong from the inside out.

COMING SOON on OUTSCHOOL!!!

Before the Bloom: A Golden hour walkthrough my sleeping garden.

                THE SLEEPY GARDEN....

There’s something sacred about the garden before it wakes up.
This evening, under the soft light of golden hour, I walked through the bare bones of what will soon become my sanctuary. My garden is still asleep, resting beneath the earth after a long winter. But I can feel it—change is whispering just beneath the soil.

I paused where my garden house will one day stand, imagining the little kitchen, the tucked-away books, the soft sounds of classical music drifting out the open window. I imagined herbs drying in the sunlight and laughter around the little fire pit nearby.

Today I took a photo of this place in its before—the space that holds hope. The space that’s waiting to be filled.

It’s not fancy right now.
It’s raw, and quiet, and honest.
But so am I.

From Winter’s Stillness to Spring’s Awakening

Winter is not the absence of growth—it’s the preparation for it.
It’s where the real healing happens—underground, unseen, slowly.
And now, as the season begins to turn, I feel that same stirring in myself.

That’s why I created the Nature Cure Journal—a printable 30-day journey through healing, reflection, and awakening. It mirrors this transition from winter to spring. From stillness to movement. From surviving… to gently thriving.

What’s Inside the Journal

• 30 days of soulful prompts

• Gentle emotional check-ins

• Space for herbal notes and wellness tracking

  
  
  

• Affirmations and reflections to guide you from the quiet of winter into the bloom of spring

Whether you’re just beginning your healing or are ready to grow something new inside yourself, this journal is a soft place to land and begin again.

🖨️ It's printable, easy to use, and designed with deep love and intention.
🛒 Available now in my Etsy shop: 

Here’s to fresh beginnings.

To slow healing.
To blooms that begin underground.

– SL Bradley
The Nature Cure Co.

Nurturing Young Minds: Coping with Emotions Through Creative Expression

 

Nurturing Young Minds: Coping with Emotions Through Creative Expression

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s more important than ever to help our little ones understand and express their emotions. I’m excited to share insights from my children’s book, which gently introduces topics like anxiety, depression, and anger, and offers creative ways for kids to manage these feelings. In this post, I’ll talk about some common mental health challenges kids face and offer practical solutions—plus, I’m thrilled to announce a FREE PDF with coloring pages designed to encourage mindfulness and calm.

Why Talking About Mental Health Matters for Kids
Children experience a wide range of emotions, and often, they don’t have the words or tools to express what they’re feeling. By discussing mental health in a kid-friendly way, we empower them to understand their emotions and develop healthy coping strategies.

• Emotional Literacy: Learning to identify and name their feelings is the first step toward managing them.
• Building Resilience: Equipping kids with coping techniques helps build resilience, preparing them for life’s ups and downs.
• Open Communication: When we talk about mental health openly, it creates a safe space for kids to share their experiences without judgment.

Common Emotions: Anxiety, Depression, and Anger
Every child feels worried, sad, or angry sometimes. Here’s how we can recognize and gently address these feelings:

• Anxiety: Often, children might worry about things they can’t control. Simple breathing exercises, reassuring words, and a calm environment can work wonders.
• Depression: A feeling of sadness or low energy can sometimes be seen in children, too. Encourage them to talk about their feelings and engage in activities that bring joy, such as drawing or playing outdoors.
• Anger: It’s normal for kids to feel angry. Teaching them to pause and express their anger through art, movement, or even writing can help transform that energy into something positive.

Simple Strategies for Emotional Wellness
Here are a few techniques you can try with your child to help them manage their emotions:

• Mindful Breathing: Teach your child to take slow, deep breaths when they feel overwhelmed. Making it a fun activity, like “smelling the flower and blowing out the candle,” can make it more engaging.
• Creative Outlets: Encourage drawing, painting, or coloring. Creative activities allow kids to express feelings they might not be able to put into words.
• Routine and Predictability: A consistent routine helps children feel secure. Even simple activities like reading together or a daily walk can provide comfort.
• Open Dialogue: Let your child know that all emotions are valid. Regular check-ins can help them feel heard and understood.

Announcing a Special Free Resource: PDF Coloring Pages
To support your journey in helping kids manage their emotions, I’m excited to announce that I will soon be offering a free PDF of coloring pages! These pages are designed to be both fun and therapeutic, featuring themes and imagery inspired by the gentle narratives in my children’s book. Coloring has long been known as a calming activity that helps children relax and focus, making it a perfect tool for managing stress and expressing creativity.

How to Use the Coloring Pages:

• Mindfulness Practice: Encourage your child to focus on the colors they choose and the patterns they fill in, turning the activity into a mindfulness exercise.
• Emotional Expression: Use the pages as a conversation starter about how they feel. Ask questions like, “What does this color remind you of?” or “How does drawing this make you feel?”
• Quality Time: Enjoy coloring together as a family. This can be a wonderful bonding experience and a way to model healthy emotional expression.

Addressing mental health doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right tools and a little creativity, we can help our children navigate their feelings and grow into emotionally resilient adults. I’m passionate about sharing these ideas through my children’s book and supporting resources like the free PDF coloring pages. Stay tuned for more details on when you can download the PDF, and I’d love to hear your thoughts or questions in the comments below.

Let’s embark on this journey together—one colorful step at a time!

Get yours here>>> FREE Emotions Coloring pages

🍄 Behind the Scenes: Writing a Thriller That Keeps Readers on Edge

Hello, my beloved friends, 

I’m currently working on a new book—one that takes a fresh twist on the thriller genre. The Echoes of Tomorrow is a story filled with high stakes, psychological tension, and a dark mystery waiting to unfold. This novel is different from my previous works, diving deep into themes of corruption, revenge, and the thin line between justice and madness.

There’s something electrifying about writing a thriller—the tension, the mystery, the slow unraveling of secrets. Unlike other genres, thrillers demand a constant push-and-pull between giving readers just enough information to keep them hooked while holding back enough to maintain suspense.

As I dive into my latest project, The Echoes of Tomorrow, I’ve been reflecting on what it takes to craft a truly compelling thriller. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at my process and the key elements I focus on while bringing this story to life.

1. The Power of the Hook

A great thriller starts with an unforgettable hook. For The Echoes of Tomorrow, the story revolves around a young man, Alexander, who experiences disturbing premonitions about a disaster at his school. As he races to uncover the truth, he finds himself entangled in a deeper conspiracy—one that threatens not just the school, but the entire town.

Every thriller needs a ticking clock—a sense of urgency that keeps the stakes high. Whether it’s a time-sensitive mystery, an unraveling crime, or a looming disaster, the story must keep moving forward, making readers feel like they’re racing against time along with the protagonist.

2. Creating an Unpredictable Antagonist

One of my favorite aspects of writing thrillers is crafting a layered antagonist. The villain in The Echoes of Tomorrow is a brilliant but broken former student who was failed by the system. He sees himself as a victim, yet his methods are extreme and destructive.

A great thriller villain isn’t just “evil.” They have motivation, pain, and logic behind their actions—even if it’s twisted logic. Their presence should send shivers down the reader’s spine, making them question how far someone can go when they feel they have nothing left to lose.

3. Playing with Suspense and Unreliable Narratives

I love to use dream sequences and visions as a storytelling device, blurring the line between reality and premonition. It’s something I’ve incorporated into The Echoes of Tomorrow to create an unsettling, almost surreal atmosphere.

Suspense thrives when readers aren’t sure who (or what) to believe. Dropping false clues, creating misleading characters, and planting red herrings all help maintain that delicious sense of paranoia.

4. The Dark Yet Hopeful Ending

Thrillers don’t always have to end in doom and gloom. While my story will have dark themes, the ending will leave readers on edge yet hopeful—suggesting that, even in the face of destruction, there’s still a chance for redemption and survival.

Writing a thriller is like setting a trap and waiting to see how the reader reacts. Every twist, every unsettling moment, and every moral dilemma is designed to keep them guessing until the final page.

What do you love most about thrillers? Is it the mystery, the twists, or the psychological tension? Let’s talk in the comments!

Fantasy Book Lovers! Here's Your Next Favorite Read

Fantasy Book Lovers!!!

Are you searching for your next fantasy obsession? A book that whisks you away to a world of magic, danger, and unforgettable characters? If you love stories filled with dark secrets, powerful supernatural beings, and heart-pounding twists, then you’re in for a treat.

Let me introduce you to Mystical Bounty—a spellbinding fantasy novel that will keep you turning the pages late into the night.

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Why You’ll Love Mystical Bounty

🌙 A Dark and Enchanting World – Step into a realm where werewolves and succubi walk a fine line between power and survival. The world-building in Mystical Bounty is rich with lore, history, and a touch of mystery that will keep you hooked.

🔥 Characters You Can’t Forget – Meet a heroine who is strong, flawed, and navigating the complexities of her identity. If you love protagonists who aren’t afraid to challenge fate, this book is for you.

⚔️ Action, Romance, and Twists – With high-stakes battles, sizzling chemistry, and shocking revelations, Mystical Bounty delivers everything a fantasy lover craves.

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If You Love These Books, You’ll Love Mystical Bounty

Readers who enjoy the following books will find Mystical Bounty to be their next favorite read:

• A Court of Thorns and Roses – If you love powerful female protagonists and immersive fantasy worlds, you’ll adore Mystical Bounty.

• The Vampire Chronicles – Like Anne Rice’s dark and gothic storytelling? Mystical Bounty brings a fresh supernatural twist.

• The Shadowhunter Chronicles – If urban fantasy and supernatural beings intrigue you, this book belongs on your shelf.

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What Readers Are Saying

✨ "A gripping fantasy with a heroine I couldn’t stop rooting for! The supernatural elements felt so real, and I didn’t want it to end." – Early Reviewer

✨ "A perfect blend of action, romance, and deep character growth. If you love fantasy with heart, don’t miss this one." – Fantasy Book Blogger

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Get Your Copy Today!

Don’t miss out on a fantasy adventure unlike any other. Grab your copy of Mystical Bounty today and step into a world where power, love, and destiny collide.

📖 Buy Now on Amazon     Want a free chapter? Join our email list: CLICK HERE

Love discovering new books? Pin this blog post and share it with fellow fantasy lovers!

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Join the Fantasy Reader Community!

Are you a fantasy book lover? Let’s connect! Follow me on Pinterest for more book recommendations, fantasy world-building tips, and behind-the-scenes looks at Mystical Bounty.

📌 Follow me on Pinterest: Pinterest

📌 let's get social on my author page: Facebook

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Stay tuned for more magical reads, and happy reading! ✨

A Journey Through Stories and Seasons: Inspiration behind the ideas

 

Every story begins with a spark. For me, that spark was deeply personal—The Dawning was born from my real relationship with my mother, a bond marked by confusion and heartbreak. Writing it became a path toward understanding, healing, and finding hope through pain. It was my first published book, but more importantly, it was my heart on the page. From that raw beginning, my journey as a storyteller continued to grow, leading me to new books, new dreams, and a vision that I long to share with you.

From The Dawning to Mystical Bounty

While The Dawning came from a personal place of loss and discovery, Mystical Bounty takes my storytelling into realms of fantasy and adventure. In this world of werewolves and succubi, I explore power, passion, and the fight for identity. It’s a story of transformation, reflecting my own growth as a writer and a person.

The Adventures of Skylan and Mary-Jean: Stories for the Heart

In contrast to the complexity of fantasy, my children's series, The Adventures of Skylan and Mary-Jean: Alien Virus, celebrates wonder and play. Inspired by my family, these stories capture the joy and imagination of childhood. My dream is to create more books that parents and children can experience together, building memories through Storytime.

Seasons of Life: A Dream Beyond the Pages

Beyond the pages, I dream of bringing stories to life in a new way—through a place called Seasons of Life. This future campground will be a sanctuary for connection, creativity, and reflection. Imagine cabins inspired by alternative living styles, gardens brimming with life, and an outdoor theater for stories under the stars—a space where people can create their own stories together.

How You Can Help Bring the Dream to Life

Every book purchase, every share, and every donation brings me one step closer to turning Seasons of Life into reality. If my stories—born from love, loss, and imagination—have touched your heart, I invite you to support this journey. Together, we can build a space where stories and community come together.

Thank you for being part of my story. The next chapter awaits, and I would be honored for you to help me write it.

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Will you help me bring Seasons of Life to life? Donate today and be part of the dream.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-make-the-seasons-of-life-campground-a-reality?attribution_id=sl:2d9e1b7c-5ad4-4397-beb4-d2aa16de99b8&lang=en_US&utm_campaign=man_ss_icons&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link

Why I write, My Journey as an Author

     From a young age, storytelling has been a deep passion of mine. I loved getting lost in a good book, drifting off into another world created by words and imagination. As an only child, I spent countless hours entertaining myself, allowing my creativity to run wild. Although I have siblings, we didn’t grow up together, which left me alone with my thoughts and vivid imagination.

When I was 13 years old, my love for writing blossomed through poetry. I was so passionate that I submitted some of my poems for publication. To this day, I can’t recall exactly where they were published, but I do remember proudly receiving a certificate confirming that my poem had made it into print.

By the time I was 15, I had started writing my very first book, titled Sweet Sixteen Bites, a romance between a human and a vampire. Although that premise has since become quite common, back then, it felt fresh and exciting. I spent hours typing on my dad’s computer, printing out chapter after chapter, and even researching ways to get my book published.

One of my most cherished memories was sharing my manuscript with my English teacher, Mr. Pondexter. He encouraged me and told me how impressed he was with my writing. Ironically, years later, Mr. Pondexter became a published author himself! I never asked him for advice on publishing—life had taken me on a different path.

As the years went on, my writing dream took a back seat to other chapters in my life: marriage, children, and building a home filled with love. But the desire to write never left me. In 2017, when my fourth child turned one, I decided to reignite my passion and return to my writing journey. Three years later, in 2020, I accomplished a lifelong goal and self-published my very first book. I was 30 years old.

As a child, I dreamed of becoming the youngest published author. But dreams evolve. Publishing my first book at 30 brought a different kind of joy. Now, I get to share my writing journey with my children. They are my biggest supporters, listening to my chapters and giving their feedback. When I write children's books, they eagerly share their opinions, making the process a true family affair.

For me, writing is more than a personal journey—it's a shared experience. Each book I publish is a family victory, woven with love, imagination, and memories.

And the best part? This story is still being written.

How i grew, and why time is our friend!

Hello readers,
Yall know I'm a writer. That is what this blog was started on. But I want this blog to be a personal area, where I can teach others and inspire others with my story!

Today I have a lot on my mind. My husband and I are about to embark on the next journey of our life together and I want to take you all on this journey with us! I am not only a writer, but I am a mother, a wife and a lifelong dreamer! I am totally sold on the idea that once you set your mind to your dreams, that you can achieve them, no matter how crazy they are or how far away they seem.

Here is a little back story of my life: I am a product of a split marriage. Which honestly I felt like it didn't effect me a whole lot, seeing as i was a baby when their marriage ended. But, from a psychological standpoint, i know that isn't true. ( Im not an expert in psychology, but I did take 2 years of it to obtain my associates degree :) )

I went through a lot emotionally, and ended up also being physically as well. My mother went on to get married another 5 times, and having  4 more children. When I would go around her, she would treat me as if I was an outcast. Ending up eventually becoming violent and hateful towards me. On top of that, my father worked all the time, so much that I hardly got to spend time with him. My grandma ended up raising me most of the time. My home life was isolated. I spent time in my room, with my door shut, watching tv. While my grandma was in the living room watching her soaps, and my dad in his room watching his t.v. We hardly ever, and I mean EVER did things together.

I'm not telling this story to get sympathy. I'm telling yall my story so that you can see where I come from. There is more.....

When I got into my teen years, lets say around 16-17 that is when I started to rebel. I snuck out of the house, I drank illegally. I dated many guys. I was in constant search of "Mr. Right" but only falling for all the "Mr. Wrongs" When I as 16 I dated a really sweet guy for, I don't know, maybe a few days? Well, he was really into me but I wasn't feeling mutual. So we ended things. I had my heart set on another, but that relationship was complicated. Him and I had a mutual friend and that friend (who WAS my best friend) had a open crush on him and we didn't want to hurt her feelings. So, that was that.

Remember the guy that I dated for a few days that was a really good guy? He ended up getting in a motorcycle accident and lost his life. I was devastated, and blamed myself. I felt that if I just gave him a chance maybe he would of been with me instead of on that bike without a helmet!

I went to his wake and when I was there.. my "Best friend" you know the one made the other relationship complicated? Ya, her. She came up to me at my Ex's wake and told me that it was my fault that he died! As if I didn't feel horrible enough as it was!

That, on top of my mother issues, on top of feeling like I had no one in the world that was in my corner... caused me to become suicidal. I remember I would lay in my room and cry, I would cry myself to sleep.

I ended up searching for the love and affection from men (well, boys then lol) to soothe the ache inside my soul. I didn't have Jesus in my life. Matter in fact, I was an atheist. I believed more in revolution.

I met a guy... he gave just the right amount of attention, while also having an issue that the helping soul inside me thought I could fix. He had a drug addiction. This is my oldest daughters father.

LONG story short... I tried helping him, SO much.. but instead of me pulling him out of the hole, he was pulling me in. I had to cut ties, even though that was the hardest and longest drawn out process ive ever had to go through. I loved him.. he loved drugs. He wanted a baby, I gave him one. It wasn't enough. Through the whole process,... I started to feel god!

A relationship between me and my childhood sweetheart began to bloom. He was the boy next door. Always a crush of mine.. I remember being 12 years old, shooting him with a BBgun because he crossed over in my yard: and this voice came in my head telling me I was going to marry him one day. I laughed at it at the time, and kind of cringed. lol

He is a wonderful man. Ive been with him for 12 years now. I put him through SO much. Like I stated above, it took a long time for me to get over my daughters dad. He stuck by me through all of the years, all of the lies, secrets and deception. I kept telling myself I didn't love him, because I wanted to be with my Childs father.. we split up during that time, and when I seen him start to date again.. I about lost my mind, so.. I was so obviously lying to myself.

Basically where I am getting at with all of this.... is this:

When I was in High school I had plans: I wanted to be a writer, a famous writer! I wanted to go to college. Instead I met a guy who talked me into having a baby and dropping out of high school.

I chose the wrong path.. but the wrong path doesn't  mean that its the end of your journey and dreams!

2008- I had a blood clot in my LUNG, god gave me another chance!
2010- I had a miscarriage.
2011- I had a healthy baby boy!
2012- another healthy baby boy!

During this time.. times were hard. We were living in an apartment that we now had outgrown. Neither of us had a job, we were living under the assistance of the government completely. I felt stuck. I felt helpless.. I felt ridiculous! I should of been this... I should of been that.... could of done this... blah blah.. I had all of those feelings! My husband (boyfriend at the time) wouldn't work .. he was super shy! I say was now.. because he has since grown tremendously!

2013- We moved into a small town house. Very small.. but it would do! I got a part time job as a dietary aid. (didn't enjoy it at all.. but it was money!) I shortly after applied for a custodian job and got hired! Which was awesome because it was right down the road! I also got my GED this year!
I knew I wanted to go to college, I didn't know what for or why.. I just knew I did! I would write on occasion, poems and short stories.. but nothing more than that. I was buys with kids and my job!

2014- I started college! I got baptized! I got married! This was a very full year!! I was also building my credit and paying off bills that I had accumulated over the years.

2015- Bought our first house with a mortgage! I found another job that was now closer to our new home. Decided I didn't want to work anymore.. told husband to find a job (LOL) he was doing the stay at home dad life, with the occasional working for a local business on a Friday here and there.

2016- I became a stay at home mom and gave birth to a healthy baby girl! Life was good and starting to turn around! We had 1/2 acre home for our children to run free (in the fence) on! It felt amazing!

2017- received my associates degree in psychology! still couldn't decide what I wanted to "Do" with my life.. or my education. I had all kinds of ideas.. I even had a part time job for a little bit, but I didn't want to work outside of the home anymore. I missed my babies. Not to mention, daycare for 4 children isn't cheap! I started really researching gardening, sustainable living, different home building options, ect… all kinds of different things. I never was a "normal" person.. lol. I haven't ever wanted to be like everyone else. So when I started learning about alternative ways to live.. I thought that was amazing! I began writing mystical bounty.. but then shortly after.. put it on hold.

2018- I was still very heavy into my research of fresh, clean living. Learning about our broken food system, as well as environmental situations that are being impacted by us humans. I wanted to live a more simple life. I wanted to have a way of sustaining my family in the case of anything happening. first thing I thought of was this huge mortgage that we had just taken on. Which in all honesty.. it wasn't huge. It was only $78,000.. but to me that was a LOT of money! The more I read and learned.. I wanted to be free of all huge amounts hanging over our heads. Security... you cant have security if you don't own it. So I set out to find ways to pay it off faster. At the end of the year, I got a job at a mental health center. Working Midnights. while my husband worked days. We hardly ever seen each other.

2019- The job only lasted about 5 months. Oct 2018- Feb 2019. My health took a turn for the worse and my womanly hormones' were actually attacking my body because my immune system was failing. Lack of sleep and adequate nutrition was taking me over. I would only get maybe 4 hours of sleep a day.. I was eating fast food most of the time, or gas station food. I wasn't coping very well at all. But, in the process we were making good money and I managed to buy a lot of awesome books to teach me a lot of skills I hoped to learn! I had to weigh the pros and cons tho, I wasn't getting enough time with my kids (and that's the reason I got a midnight job, was so I could be there) But your not there when you are a zombie! So, I quit. My health dramatically changed over the months and was back on track and I was feeling great again! Back on my path of researching.... I sat down and talked with my husband (whom I hadn't had a lot of time with before due to the job) and we decided to sell our house, and get property in Missouri! We bought a camper and planned on staying in that until we got the means to getting us a house built. Now, this could of been an amazing journey! But.... idk.. it didn't pan out that way. Sometimes life takes you a different direction.
So, MAY came around and our house was SOLD!!!! So.. we went looking for a house that was away from where we were, but still close to my husbands work. we got $30,000 cash from our house after the pay off.. and we found only ONE house that was available within our budget (god?) I have a saying that I say when I feel god is responsible for what happens in our lives now, ("I'm pretty sure that was a god thing!") Maybe I say it.. and am awkward about it still? Idk.. I know that my faith has grown tremendously since we have arrived here, so I know we are on the right path. This house was rough when we first moved in.. I actually have a youtube channel called blossom valley ranch and you can check out what I am talking about. I'm also on facebook under Bradley homestead. This house wasn't livable when we got here. We had $10,000 left over to put into it, to make it livable. We got the electric turned on, and lived in our camper for a couple weeks until my husband did his magic and fixed all the plumbing and we cleaned it out, did all the tests it needed done for safety. Then we all moved into the ONE room that was ready to go. lol! All 6 of us were sleeping in what is now, the living room. We will forever have that memory! :) The septic wasn't good.. but we had to deal with that for the time being because our repair money was drained. Once we were somewhat settled, I started writing my book again!!

2020- As you all know.. this year started off, going to be OUR YEAR!! I'm sure yall can relate?? Ya.. then this amazingly small nuisance came into our lives called Covid-19. Now honestly.. it hasn't effected us that bad. My husbands job is considered essential, but for safety they let him take off about a month (which set our bills and plans back a bit)
In March, I finished my book and I published it on amazon! That was one of the best, most satisfying feelings I have ever felt in my entire life. Something I felt I would never be able to do.. I DID IT!
And today, I just completed Day 1, of my LAST class EVER!! In another four weeks, I will have my bachelors degree in business management! It has been a LONG 6 years! That is one chapter in my life closing.
*1st book published ✔️
*Graduate ✔️
*own paid off home ✔️

If you would have talked to me back in 2008 and told me that today I would have all of this accomplished in my life.. I wouldn't believe you!

I share my story with you, to show you that anything is possible! Don't ever think that you cant do what you want to do.. or that what your dreaming of is too far out of reach! Because if you have determination and the will to do it, It will get DONE!  You will make it! You can do it!

We can only do what we tell ourselves we can do! If you tell yourself you cant do something.. then you wont do it. You cant have that attitude!

My children are better people because they see that they have a mother who never gives up! Now, that's not saying I'm perfect.. because I'm not! I fail, I have bad days.. I have horrible days.. mood swings, depression still creeps in every now and then..

But its how you handle those situations that matters! If you just crawl into a ball and hide in a corner and let the darkness consume you.. you wont find the light.

But I assure you, once you find the light, the darkness cant touch you! It can try.. it can tempt you.. you have to FIGHT! Let the LIGHT become YOU!!

Jesus has open arms yall, he always an ear away!
All you have to do is take time and pray!

My newest dream, yet has been my lifelong dream.. is owning property.... I know.. I have property.

Not just any property... mountainous acreage property! When I was 15 my dad and I took a trip to Tennessee, and I left a huge chunk of my heart in the mountains! I felt at peace.. and I truly feel that now that I look back on it, god was trying to talk to me then. I feel the most spiritual when I'm in the mountains! And I want to live like that till I'm old and grey!

We don't know exactly what state we are going to grow roots in yet, but we do know that we want to rent out our house here eventually and move to that property and grow all old and stuff together, with our children and our farm animals and huge garden! I sit here and I talk about this now.. and just like in 2008 it seems so far away. But I know now what just a short time can do for someone! Its in gods hands and he knows the desires of my heart!

This was a really long story, and if you stuck around and read it all.. bless your heart and I hope I encouraged and inspired you! With much love, ill see yall next time. -Slbradley

April showers

Hello wonderful people!

They say that when it rains it pours... I feel I speak for us all when I say that I can confirm that we have had our fair share of rain showers (metaphorically) lately. Am I right? Kind of? I'm the mother of four littles and being trapped in the house with little to nothing to do, has become quite draining. I have found myself going to bed extremely later than what I normally do, and this has became rather drawing on my creative juices. As a writer I need those juices to be on overdrive, but lately with my sleep schedule and my stress levels being all over the place, that has been very daunting. Most of my inspiration comes from my dreams. I feel that I am not able to complete my dreams in time for my children to get up.. in that I mean, when we enter REM sleep, which is where our dreams come from, it is near the time we are coming to wake up. Well, for me around that time is when my kids start to stir and they are fighting with one another, lecturing the puppies for barking, or singing and dancing... there truly is no in between for mornings in my household. Its either loud, or kind of loud LOL. So, if I don't get to that REM sleep before that happens, well... I don't get to finish that inspiring dream and I loose it.

I do remember a dream that I had recently, bits and pieces of it anyway.. that seemed quite inspiring. Now, for you to understand this dream and how my brain works, you need to know that I am inspired by nature, I love nature! I'm a very big environmentalist! This dream was of this crazy looking tree in my yard.. if I can I will post a picture of it down below! ↓
This dream reminded me of other dreams that Ive had, do dreams do that to anyone else? Its like images, textures, sounds etc. things that are in the dream take you to other dreams that you have had. Well this one in particular reminded me of another book inspiration that I had when I was just a teen. So, maybe there will be more about that in upcoming blogs.

This dream was of this tree, the tree was all funky (I'm sure its a normal tree, but it was funky to me)
Well, our yard is bare, we just had our septic replaced so our backyard looks like a desert island. Its very sad to say the least... So, in my dream there came this massive down pour of rain, like rained really really hard. It was a dream so for a matter of explanation sake, I'm going to say it seemed like we got at least like 5 inches of rain in less than an hour! After the rain stopped, we all went outside. When I walked outside, everything was GREEN! The grass was lush and soft under my bare feet... ya, my feet were BARE! I wouldn't ever not wear shoes outside right now in my yard lol. There were weeds, but there was mainly green lush grass! It was amazing. As I was looking around the yard, one of my children called out to me from across the yard. I ran over to them, and before they could even say anything, my jaw dropped to the ground! That tree... the same tree, the day before I stood and looked at with wonder... I stared at with far more wonder as I saw the dust of pollen coming off these lush HUGE blue flowers that looked as if they could consume me whole! I'm 5'2" so, I'm not extremely tall, but that flower was extremely huge! That was just the size of the petals. The look of the flower mimicked that of a tulip! After seeing that, the dream gets kind of foggy, I remember seeing a tree end up coming to life and talking to me, as if it was my guardian or something.. I don't know, but I know that some of these aspects would be super neat to incorporate into one of my up coming books!

Well, I hope you all have a very blessed day... night, (or whenever your reading this!) Have a nice one! I'm going to jump off of here and go make supper for my mini army! We are eating some breakfast for supper, homemade biscuits and gravy! Yum! Just remember, after all the April showers have passed, they are said to bring may flowers! Anticipate and search for the beautiful flowers friends!
Love you all! Don't forget to check out slbradley.com and read my 1st published book!

 SL.Bradley.

Here is the tree!

Has weird "Leaves" I'm guessing pine?