Why I started this blog:

Almost 11 years ago, I welcomed the most beautiful and life changing person into my world, my son Fleet. Since then, he’s been joined by his brother Luke (9), sister Elle (5) and baby brother Charlie Mac (3).  Motherhood has been the most rewarding and challenging endeavor. I’ve basked in moments of pure bliss; newborn snuggles, first smiles, learning to read, witnessing sibling kindness. At other times, I’ve struggled to find the balance between motherhood, wife, employee, friend and human being. Believe it or not, writing has helped tremendously with that. It has given me the opportunity to reflect on my days and connect with other moms. Through this blog, I’m hoping to comfort and inspire other mothers on their parenting journey.

I love stories. I’d love to know what makes you tick, what challenges you, what scares you, what makes you cry tears of joy and of sadness. I’d like to know where you struggle and where you soar. I’d love to hear your story.

My story is here.

About Me:

I’m a South Carolina native originally from a small town outside of Columbia called Hopkins, you’ve probably never heard of it. I grew up in the country running around barefoot and getting lost in the woods with my little brother, Lewis and our big old golden retriever/babysitter, Moses. I moved to the Lowcountry in 1999 to go to the College of Charleston where I earned a B.S. in Elementary Education. After exploring as much as my wallet and my parents would allow, I married my high school sweetheart, Luke and we are about to celebrate our 13th anniversary. Our four kiddos keep us focused on the essentials in our life which at times are very immediate (they’re hungry, they’re thirsty) and other times are more subtle (how to instill kindness and compassion).

When not chasing after the under 3 foot crowd, I write for publications such as Mommy Nearest and work for my Beautycounter business, jobs I feel honored to be a part of. I like coffee in the morning and a good micro brew in the afternoon (Westbrook One Claw please!). You can find me at the park, the beach or on the boat with my lively crew whenever we get the chance. I’m still a country girl at heart and prefer anywhere outdoors to walls and ceilings. I’ve traded the woods of my youth for the salty air and pluff mud of the Lowcountry and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Email me at laurenskijones@gmail.com

I’d love to work with you! I’ve been blogging since February 2016. Check out my first site at embracingtheessentials.wordpress.com