A Walk in the Woods

Yesterday afternoon we visited a forest. We walked with a forester who explained how the forest’s resources are used and how he helps the landowners maintain them responsibly. It was mostly a forest of Norwegian spruce and beech, but we also saw interesting fungi, a wild boar wallow and, in a pond, a big ol’ golden carp. (Not a native species, but still impressive!)

We also saw yellow loosestrife and purple foxgloves blooming beside one of the roads into the woods. A lot of the plants look just like what I often see in England.

Overall, I think this retreat is going well for me, professionally. It’s definitely helping me to consider more mindful ways of responding to students. Rather than getting cranky about their overdue materials or the fact that someone wants yet another computer charger, maybe I can pause and breathe and put things in better perspective — be a more compassionate presence. This isn’t a new idea, but my practice here may help to reinforce it. (Let’s hope I’m still feeling as conscientious by the time mid-August rolls around!)

Here’s my empty porridge bowl at breakfast this morning.

And here are some marine creatures, because I can: 🦑 🐠 🐬 🐋 🦀