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On July 18th, our cohort went to Pacific Spirit Park to participate and lead various activities outdoors. Groups led a variety of fun activities for different grades. The space we were in was a beautiful natural area filled with trees, logs to sit on, and plants. It had a cedar fence around the area which contained our activities to ensure that we do not cause any ecological harm to the surrounding forest. The different activities, while also being super fun, were a chance to reflect on being on the land. Many of the activities incorporated all of our senses or an artistic aspect. We all felt that we were able to connect to this space quickly and create a meaningful connection due to these activities. Even on the walk through the forest to get to the space, our group was using our senses: Emma was eating red huckleberries, Jenn was pointing out various plants and trees. During the activities, Sheana enjoyed sharing stories of pinecones, Keira liked being hands on creating her name, Vanessa enjoyed creating a mandala with nature, and Allison enjoyed using all her senses except for sight to find a tree. These unique activities really connect to our inquiry question. The activities explored different ways that we can connect to land, some of these ways are ones that our group has explored: our senses, art, story. Using our senses and art, we feel that we are able to connect to land. Another connection that we have not previously explored, is that being in a group and having a shared experience is another way to connect to land. We now feel much more connected to Pacific Spirit Park, and specifically that area, due to the shared experience we had. We look forward to reflecting further on our connections with each other, our shared experiences throughout this past year, and how these have contributed to our connection to land.
How can our memories of an experience connect us to land? What ways can we share our memories with others so they feel a connection to land?
This community map is one way we are exploring sharing our connections to land and our memories. We hope that others will be able to connect with land through our presentation and the sharing of our map.
Do we feel a deeper connection to land when we have a shared experience with others?
Featured photo taken by Sheana