Writing in the Natural Environment – Pocono Critters

The range of wildlife in the Pocono region is incredible. It provides me with an endless supply of images that often end up animating my creative work. For example, I thought I knew what happiness was until I saw this tiny frog exploring the back lawn at Pennsyl Pointe. From buggy eyes to webbed feet he was smaller than the top joint of my thumb and exhilarating to watch. He must have just traded his tadpole tail for that pair of wild legs he now kicks with so much joy. Today he can hop up one side of a tuft of grass and jump right down the other – it’s his version of Olympic victory. When he rested near the roots of plants it was impossible to see him. His red orange color eliminated any contrast between him and the clay dirt at his tiny feet. It was the leap through vegetation that gave him away. A frog this small and red belongs to some science book my teachers never gave me. Unlike the green and grumpy ones, this one might actually convince a princess to kiss it.

Writing and Walking -- Finding Your Muse at the Labyrinth

This past weekend was a gift in every sense. At the retreat we had great weather, lively companions, and enough free time to drink in the natural beauty around us. Since we had an artist in residence, we dedicated some time to sprucing up the labyrinth installation at Pennsyl Pointe. Indigo Raffel, our labyrinth designer, helped us to improve the layout by adding more and bigger rocks to outline the walking path. We took some beautiful shale and granite river rocks from a creek bank that’s pretty close to the house. This involved crossing the creek on slippery stones and hurling rocks across the water. It wasn’t dangerous exactly -- just risky enough to make you feel 100% in the moment. It also gave us a chance to take turns throwing stones at each other. How often does that happen?

Now the labyrinth looks terrific. With autumn approaching, the place is perfect for walks that bring you a little closer to your muse. In fact, I suspect the deer are strolling up there right now, reflecting on their plot points. Don’t laugh. On various occasions, I've caught them in the act.