As I sit at my computer and reflect on the last fourteen months at Sylvalchemy Grove for my blog, it's raining outside. I like to tell my students when it rains that it is just earth getting a drink. In fact, some of my favorite days of field teaching have been in the rain! My favorite places to teach outdoor education have been when the classes take place rain or shine. At Princeton Adult School, I maintain that same philosophy. You can sign up for my classes here:...

Something that I like to do to start the day is a gratitude walking mediation exercise. Start with slow steps on the earth. Every time you take a step, say, "I'm thankful for ..." Keep finding things to be thankful for as you are taking each step. A profound brain chemistry change takes place in the brain. Focus on your breathing as you pay attention to the sights and sounds around you. Take slow breaths. You can also do this gratitude exercise by a tree or your teacher

May 23, 2026 I’m celebrating another elliptical orbit around the sun tomorrow, so I thought that this would be a good time to reflect. I think it is important to take time in life to reflect. It gives me time to process the experiences and learn. I never want to stop learning! We have been busy planting throughout the food forest and vegetable garden during the month of May. I like to think of planting a tree as a sacred act. Before placing it into the ground, I take a mom