Finding Wildness Within: Nature Journaling and the Quiet Joy of Lockdown

The world feels… different these days, doesn’t it? Maybe you’re staring out the window, longing for the open trail, the crunch of gravel beneath your boots. The desire for wide-open spaces is a deep human need, a yearning for something bigger than ourselves. It’s the same quiet pull that draws us to mountaintops, to the vastness of the prairie, to the thrill of a new river bend. It's the same longing reflected in the faces of our children as they trace their fingers across a map, dreaming of where we'll go next.

Julia Bausenhardt, an artist and nature educator, understands this need. In her recent video, she offers a balm for the soul—practical ideas for finding joy and connection with nature, even during lockdown. It’s a reminder that adventure isn’t always about distance; sometimes, it’s about perspective.

She isn't preaching a grand escape, but rather a shift in focus. A moment to pause, observe, and appreciate the tiny miracles unfolding right outside our doors. Think of it as a field trip – a field trip at scale – where the classroom is your windowsill, the curriculum is the natural world, and the potential for learning is limitless. This is where Rogue Adventurers and Rogue Schoolers converge – families seeking both the freedom of the road and the richness of intentional learning.

Rediscovering Wonder

Bausenhardt’s suggestions are beautifully simple: bird watching, long walks (when permitted), immersing yourself in nature documentaries and books, exploring the sketchbooks of Leonardo da Vinci (a fascinating blend of art and science!), and delving into online resources like wildlife webcams and nature journaling podcasts. These aren't just activities; they're opportunities to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the intricate beauty of creation.

Imagine your children, captivated by a tiny hummingbird at the feeder, learning about migration patterns and the delicate balance of ecosystems. Picture yourself, notebook in hand, meticulously sketching a wildflower, noticing details you’d never seen before. These moments—these small, intentional acts of observation—become anchors of peace and joy in a world that often feels chaotic.

The Rogue Adventurer’s Toolkit

And speaking of intentionality, remember the tools we carry as Rogue Adventurers? A CRockyGo painted rock, left at a trailhead as a silent blessing for a stranger, a small act of kindness that ripples outward. Or a decorated Currency Kids bill – a “Benny,” “Abe,” or “Tommy” – spent at a Proof Breads bakery, spreading a little joy and supporting a fellow believer along the way. These aren't just tokens; they're tiny ambassadors of hope, reminders of a larger community.

Finding Connection

Bausenhardt’s video is a gentle nudge to reconnect with the world around us. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of restrictions, we can find solace, beauty, and a renewed sense of purpose. Whether you're a full-time RV family, a homeschool co-op planning a big trip, or simply longing for a bit more wilderness in your life, there's a place for you in this movement. This isn't about escaping reality; it’s about finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, the sacred in the everyday.

So, step outside (or look out the window!), take a deep breath, and rediscover the wonder that awaits. And when you find a particularly breathtaking view, leave a CRockyGo for someone else to find. Consider spending your next loaf of bread at Proof Breads. Let’s build a community of believers, one rock, one bill, one observation at a time.

Ready to join the journey? Find your local Rogue Adventurers meet-up. List a field trip and inspire others. Claim your creator profile and share your adventures. Or, if you’re ready to guide others, consider becoming an Adventure Angel.