Let’s talk about the power of carrying a notebook.

Hi! I’m Stephanie. On the blog, I talk about motherhood, finding wellness, journaling and planning strategies, and teaching reading and writing to kids. When I am not writing or doodling in a notebook, you can find me cooking up a new recipe from Pinterest and enjoying a fresh cup of coffee.

About Me

Start a Nature Journal

Ready for Spring? Use a Nature Journal to Observe, Reflect, and Learn

Have you ever noticed the first green buds of spring or the sound of birds returning after winter and wished you could capture the moment? A nature journal might be your new favorite tool for observing and reflecting on the changing seasons. If, at the beginning of the year, you wanted to deepen your connection with the outdoors but didn’t know where to start, this project could be just what you’re looking for. Let’s explore what a nature journal is and how you can start one tailored to your lifeβ€”whether you're a teacher, a parent, or simply someone who finds joy in the natural world.

Today, nature journals are as unique as their creators. Think of it like your personal scrapbook of seasonal discoveriesβ€”only in physical form.

Observe and Record: Sketch or describe what you see in natureβ€”buds on trees, blooming flowers, or changing cloud patterns.

Capture Sounds and Sensations: Write down bird songs, the feeling of the sun on your skin, or the scent of fresh rain.

Track Seasonal Changes: Note the first signs of spring and compare them over time to see patterns year after year.

Include Creative Elements: Press flowers, create leaf rubbings, or add watercolor sketches to bring your observations to life.

Reflect and Connect: Use your journal to write about how time spent in nature affects your mood, thoughts, and creativity.

With just a notebook and a few simple tools, you can create a beautiful record of spring’s arrival and your personal connection to the natural world.

The Writing Mindset Hub

Access free resources for teaching writing and working in any journal or notebook.

Current Resources Available:

  • Biography Writing Resources

  • Research Writing Resources

  • Mentor Text Resources

  • Informational Writing Resources

  • Narrative Writing Resources

  • Teaching Inspiration Resources

  • Argumentative Writing Resources

  • Journaling for Teachers

  • Substitute Plans

  • Book Lists/Recommendations

  • Canva Templates

  • Grading Writing Resources

  • Poetry Writing Resources

  • Journaling Decoration Resources

  • Generative Writing Resources

Literacy & Teaching Workshops 

Writing Together: Building Writing Communities in All Subject Areas

Together, let’s amplify voices and foster strong writing communities.

Writing Together is a comprehensive collection of resources and workshops designed to support educators in enhancing writing instruction across all content areas. These workshop materials provide valuable tools and strategies to help schools establish a unified approach to writing.

Included in this resource collection are resources that focus on the four tenets of building writing communities:

  • Collaborative Environment through Speaking and Listening

  •  Inspiring Joy

  • Using a Common Language and Common Writing Process

  • Using Mentor Texts

The goal is to empower educators with the confidence and competence to improve student writing skills through effective and cohesive teaching methods.

Inside Writing Mindset

  • Teaching

    The teaching category on Writing Mindset offers resources and insights on disciplinary literacy, English language arts, and writing instruction, all aimed at enriching classroom practices. Explore mentor texts, lesson examples, and strategies to deepen literacy across subjects and inspire student writers.

  • Journaling

    The journaling category on Writing Mindset is your go-to for product recommendations, creative layout ideas, and inspiring journaling prompts. Whether you’re new to journaling or looking to refresh your practice, you’ll find tips and inspiration to make every page meaningful.

  • Motherhood

    The motherhood category on Writing Mindset shares heartfelt affirmations, creative learning ideas, and honest reflections on navigating life with a toddler. It’s a space to find encouragement, practical tips, and relatable moments in the journey of early motherhood.

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