Captivated by Outdoor Spaces

“To sit in the shade on a fine day and look upon verdure is the most perfect refreshment.” – Jane Austen

The first day of summer begins on Wednesday, June 21, and with it comes an urge to take it outside. Whether we are reading, writing, or just hanging out, summer allows us to spend more time in the great outdoors. We asked our team members to show us their favorite outdoor spaces. Here’s what they said:

PWN instructor Gay Norton Edelman said: 

“A simple backyard picnic table for now. Early morning is best. I’ll add an umbrella and net when the skeeters ramp up their attacks. Can you see the woodchuck hole? Sometimes he visits, if I’m quiet enough.”

Read more about Gay’s need for natural spaces in her blog, “How Wild Nature Feeds My Writing.”

Our PWN Screen Academy director and book inc Peer Artist Leader Lizzie Finn said:  

“I read something on Instagram recently that said, ‘Creative people need time to sit around and do nothing.’ While it sounds counter-intuitive, the truth is sometimes we are more productive when we play, relax, or clear our minds instead of grinding away at work. One of the ways I summon my muse is by taking regular walks with my dog at my favorite spot in Highlands, NJ—Popamora Point/Henry Hudson Trail. When I walk, I often write at the same time. After all, writing isn’t just about putting pen to paper or typing. Often, I hear scenes in my head (complete with dialogue and description) well before I transcribe the words onto the page. And if I’m lucky, I get a bonus beautiful sunset while on the job.'”

Our program coordinator and writing instructor Lisa Hartsgrove, who leads the popular Lunchtime Write-In, said: 

“I love where I live. To be able to sit outside my apartment and see the river, the bridge, the birds, and the people all at once is a gift not lost on me. Inspiration abounds right outside my front door. Even my dog, Lucy, feels the magic!”

Our PWN operations and communications manager and book inc program manager Liz Jannuzzi said: 

“My new favorite writing spot is my back deck. Weather permitting (of course) I bring my laptop outside to our deck that overlooks a large backyard that we’ve let ‘re-wild.’ This wild space is buzzing with wildlife. Birds are everywhere but so are chipmunks, a fat groundhog, a cute tiny bunny, a sly fox, and a herd of deer. It’s amazing I get any writing done with all the wildlife entertainment.”  

Our outreach instructor and book inc Peer Artist Leader Jennifer Shields said: 

“We have a cabin in the Catskills on the Neversink River. I spend hours losing myself traveling this river with my dog, Bruce. After long runs or hikes, I jump directly into the big swimming hole at the end of the lane. Sneakers and all. I have seen bald eagles, mink, porcupines, bears, coyotes. No leaf blowers here. My special place.”

We hope you enjoyed this tour of our team’s favorite outdoor spaces. Now you go “take it outside!” Go now!