Beneath Our Feet

Tomorrow is Earth Day—a beautiful invitation to reconnect with the world beneath our feet. Whether it’s walking barefoot on the beach, through soft grass, or across warm sand, there’s something grounding and restorative about feeling the earth directly. That simple act reminds us not only of nature’s beauty, but of the quiet ways it supports our well-being.

This week I had the privilege of speaking to the students at The School in the Woods, where their motto, “Once a naturalist, always a naturalist,” truly comes to life. This special program is just for 4th graders, giving them the chance to step outside the classroom and learn how to care for the earth in meaningful, hands-on ways.

My author visit was especially meaningful because my youngest son, Cody, once walked those same wooded paths when he was in 4th grade. He joined me for my visit and shared with the students how his time at the school—now 22 years ago—continues to shape how he respects and connects with the natural world.

In my book, Ivy Blue’s Greatest Pumpkin Playhouse, Ivy Blue tells her pumpkin, “I think the greatest honor for a pumpkin is giving back to the earth,” and I believe that sentiment holds true for all of us in the ways we care for, protect, and give back to the world around us.

This Earth Day, may we each find simple ways to give back—to slow down, step outside, and take pleasure in feeling the earth beneath our feet.

Warmly,

~Wendy