Join us at Yates Mill County Park as we explore our natural environment through observation, journaling, sketching, and reflection. Melissa Dowland, coordinator of Teacher Education at the NC Museum of Natural Science, kicks off the course with her own style of experiencing and interpreting nature through inspiring poetry, photography, and blog posts. Walk in the park to grow your curiosity, sharpen observational skills, reflect in your journal, and share as you wish. Stretch your capacity to respond to and enjoy nature as we experiment with models, techniques, and flexible prompts. Read and discuss selections from nature writers such as Henry David Thoreau, John Muir, Wendell Berry, Amy Tan, Helen Macdonald, and others. Take some first steps in nature journaling in our fresh air community!  This course is designed for participants to explore the park at the activity level that they desire.

Notes: Specific directions and meeting location will be sent prior to the first class session. Wear comfortable walking shoes, dress for the weather with sun protection. Bring a filled beverage bottle to keep you hydrated.  Expect to walk on unpaved paths and uneven ground. Participants will provide their own transport to Yates Mill County Park. Meeting location and parking suggestions will be sent in advance. In case of inclement weather, class sessions may be cancelled and rescheduled. Any decisions about weather cancellations will be communicated to participants via email on the morning of the scheduled class session.

Registration deadline: Sept. 14