Bond with a nature journal

By Mick Trombley

When I first saw this idea I discounted it, thinking it was not "manly enough."

But nature journaling has been a fantastic point of connection with my children, particularly my daughter. Nature journaling is the re cording in words and pictures what you are observing while you are out in nature. There is no wrong way to journal, and you don't have to have artistic talent. You just record sights, sounds, smells and anything else you observe.

Years after creating a drawing, you will almost magically be able to recall the feelings and details of that day. I encourage you to grab some colored pencils, a pocket-sized notebook and at least one of your children and try this. You'll be glad you did.

ACTION IDEAS:

• Think about the "connection activities" you have or had with your dad, your children and your wife. What makes them great?

• Is or could nature be incorporated into your time together? (Canoe rentals at Shaver's Creek are only $6/hour.)

• Pennsylvania offers abundant outdoor activities and places for outdoor recreation. Is there a family hike in your future? Don't forget your notebook.

The local fathering effort, in cooperation with the National Center for Fathering, provides bi-weekly Action Ideas to stimulate conversation between fathers and children. For more information, or to join local conversations, contact

David Eggebeen at e5x@psu.edu

Mick Trombley at mick@apartmentstore.com

Robert Orndorff at rmo104@psu.edu

Marc McCann at 237-1719 or marc@thesecondmile.org