A Summer of Nature Journaling: Highlights & Adventures

This summer was overflowing with creativity, connection, and discovery through the art of Nature Journaling. I had the privilege of working with people of all ages—families, children, teens, adults, and educators—each bringing their own perspective to the practice of slowing down and noticing the natural world. Here are some highlights from an inspiring season:

Orangeville Library – Families, Teens, and Adults

Partnering with the Orangeville Library was such a joy. I ran three workshops—one each for families, teens, and adults.

The Family Workshop was filled with laughter and curiosity, families explored Mill Creek Park and discovered how differently each person captured the nature around them. It was heartwarming to watch families bond, share perspectives, and enjoy much-needed time outdoors together.

The Teens embraced creativity and reflection, sharing that they loved looking at nature in a new way and experimenting with techniques I introduced. It was inspiring to see their unique artistic styles emerge.

The adult session was rich with conversation and curiosity. Many participants stepped out of their comfort zones to try new approaches, leaving inspired to begin or deepen their own journaling practice.

Riverwood Conservancy – Summer Camp Magic

At the Riverwood Conservancy, I worked with campers ages 6–12 during four workshops. Each group brought boundless energy and curiosity.

We sketched leaves, flowers, and insects; asked plenty of “I notice, I wonder, It reminds me of…” questions; and shared discoveries with one another. Many campers said they had never looked this closely at nature before. They especially loved the fish pond and using flower petals as natural colouring tools. Those simple, joyful discoveries remind me why I love this work.

Outdoor Learning School and Store – Creative Workshop Series

Nature Journaling went virtual this summer with a workshop hosted by the Outdoor Learning School and Store. Participants tuned in from their homes and backyards, showing that journaling doesn’t require wilderness—you can do it wherever you are.

We explored prompts to spark creativity, each person bringing a natural object from their surroundings to study. Together we reflected on how nature journaling meets you where you’re at and practiced letting go of the inner critic.

Take Me Outside – Professional Development for Educators

One of the biggest highlights was partnering with Take Me Outside to facilitate a full-day professional development session for the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board.

I led three Nature Journaling workshops focused on wellness, reflection, and connection to the land. It was powerful to watch educators experience firsthand how journaling can be a tool not only for teaching science, art, and literacy but also for cultivating mindfulness and well-being. Many left excited to bring these practices back to their classrooms.

Looking Ahead – Galapagos & Alaska

The summer closed with exciting news: I’ll be joining John Muir Laws as his Co-Lead on the Galapagos Island Nature Journaling Trip. The trip is now sold out, and I’m so grateful for the chance to teach, learn, and explore alongside Jack and an incredible community of Nature Journalers.

In June, I’ll also be heading north with Jack and Let’s Me In Alaska for a week of Nature Journaling if we meet participant numbers. This will be a truly unique opportunity to explore northern landscapes and wildlife through the nature journaler’s lens.

Looking back, this summer was filled with community, creativity, and connection to the land. From the wide-eyed wonder of campers to the thoughtful reflections of educators and adults, I witnessed again how powerful the simple act of nature journaling can be.

Thank you to everyone who joined me this summer—I can’t wait to see where our Nature Journaling journeys take us next!