Tree-ly Good Journaling

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John Muir documented his discoveries from his heart and mind, which later lead him to write essays to help save and preserve the wilderness.  Journaling is a personal conversation which, if shared, demonstrates to others our observations and values.  The journals of the students at Stonewall Gardens allows insight to the variety of educational opportunities provided by our garden's natural settings.  The students learning walks, explorations, and  journals express the simple delights of discovery.

Although we have the luxury of an amazing garden, educators, who are resourceful, can incorporate any local gift, i.e. trees, into their student's education as an extension.

Our classes decided to take a closer look at the redbud tree in our school parking lot and the Mexican plum tree in our garden.  The students were given the opportunity to both view and illustrate.

They came up with their own conclusions; there are more differences than just the color of the blooms.

It's extraordinary to see students working side by side documenting their observations and making different comparison notes.

It's opportunities such as a local resources, or a garden, that ensures a richer and more diverse education.

Whether collecting plums off the ground,

following up with an art project in the classroom,

or discovering a worm in your plum!

Try your own local resources and discover along with Stonewall Gardens.