Prompt:  Nature Poet Mary Oliver carries a small memo-pad in her back pocket in which she records the “felt experience” of her time outdoors, writing down only what her senses perceive, without analysis, explanation, or abstract thinking.

For example, on a bright autumn day, Oliver jotted down, “Look, the trees are turning into pillars of light!”  Later she developed these lines into her poem, “In Blackwater Woods.”

Practice tuning into your felt experience during your time at the park. Jot down, in brief, vivid language, what your senses experience.  After practicing this attention, incorporate your jotted notes into a poem, short essay or story.