Thanks Kim for your interesting and inspiring article! This will definitely expand my awareness and connection with my local community, Wheaton, IL. But it is cold and snowy here. The primary place I go is Wheaton Sports Center daily. I want to go beyond my backyard. I can pick a spot at Lincoln Marsh by my house. I guess that is what I will do. I have never found out much about Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, or Wheaton where I live. I would rather go somewhere else. I guess I have decided. Thank you very much for all your time and dedication in doing this wonderful class!!
Looking forward to this, I confess that I didn't take part at all last year, I was overwhelmed at the beginning of the year and then it seemed I couldn't figure out how to jump in in the middle. Last year, I wound up walking the trail up behind my house almost every day from about the beginning of May till the end of October. I've walked it on and off for years, but never consistently, certainly not daily, and was constantly amazed at how things changed... almost every day.
I was the same way Catherine, overwhelmed and disorganized for me. I too walked by my house for an hour daily and loved it. Now I walk indoors at Wheaton Sports Center. Where do you live Catherine??
Thanks Catherine! Anxious to see what you come up with , as well as myself. The place I was thinking of gets icy in the winter, and don't want to fall. For me, it is very challenging with sub zero temps to get excited about a place right now.
Yes, you don’t want to fall. Even the animals are hibernating or staying protected from the cold. And, you don’t have to be excited about your place. Just listen and see what’s happening.
Thanks, helpful comment about listening and seeing what's happening. Pausing and being open to new discoveries and possibilities. This is always a fun approach with surprises along the way.
Kim I lived in Indianapolis for a few years working in a settlement house, Christamore House as a social worker. I am eager to read about your project of Indianapolis. Thank you for sharing it!
Hi everyone,
A few thoughts to share.
This project, for me, is about deep listening, wherever you are. Let go of expectations and be open to what you discover. Prepare to be surprised.
If possible, don’t let the weather keep you in. Dress for it and you may be amazed at what you find.
Pay particular attention to the in-between spaces between your home and wherever you’re going.
Tim created a great map showing two circular areas around his neighbourhood - one a 15 minute walk and the other a 15 minute bike ride. https://www.instagram.com/p/CYUn2S3v8ZT/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Thanks Kim for your interesting and inspiring article! This will definitely expand my awareness and connection with my local community, Wheaton, IL. But it is cold and snowy here. The primary place I go is Wheaton Sports Center daily. I want to go beyond my backyard. I can pick a spot at Lincoln Marsh by my house. I guess that is what I will do. I have never found out much about Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, or Wheaton where I live. I would rather go somewhere else. I guess I have decided. Thank you very much for all your time and dedication in doing this wonderful class!!
I don't know how to use Instagram, don't know if I signed up before or not, never ever use it! What do I do Kim? Thanks!!
Looking forward to this, I confess that I didn't take part at all last year, I was overwhelmed at the beginning of the year and then it seemed I couldn't figure out how to jump in in the middle. Last year, I wound up walking the trail up behind my house almost every day from about the beginning of May till the end of October. I've walked it on and off for years, but never consistently, certainly not daily, and was constantly amazed at how things changed... almost every day.
I was the same way Catherine, overwhelmed and disorganized for me. I too walked by my house for an hour daily and loved it. Now I walk indoors at Wheaton Sports Center. Where do you live Catherine??
I live in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, or just outside of it. Still pondering my 'place' for this year!
I talked to someone else who wasn’t sure about how to choose their place. I suggested they let the practices guide them.
Interesting idea! Sort of like contemplative photography and letting the image chose you instead of the other way around. Thanks!
This is beautiful and spot-on, Catherine. Love this POV!!
Like this suggestion, thanks!
Thanks Catherine! Anxious to see what you come up with , as well as myself. The place I was thinking of gets icy in the winter, and don't want to fall. For me, it is very challenging with sub zero temps to get excited about a place right now.
Yes, you don’t want to fall. Even the animals are hibernating or staying protected from the cold. And, you don’t have to be excited about your place. Just listen and see what’s happening.
Thanks, helpful comment about listening and seeing what's happening. Pausing and being open to new discoveries and possibilities. This is always a fun approach with surprises along the way.
Thanks Kim, I will see what evolves. Is it once weekly that we should go to the spot we select to observe for 20 minutes?
There are no shoulds here, Sharana. Whatever works for you. The purpose is to observe the same place over time to see more deeply and to see change.
Kim I lived in Indianapolis for a few years working in a settlement house, Christamore House as a social worker. I am eager to read about your project of Indianapolis. Thank you for sharing it!