It has been three years since we made our big move to  Michigan, and 2016 was really a settling in year for us. Nothing particularly “big” happened to our family. We’re getting into a groove on the farm, it wasn’t a baby year (unless you count the lambs) and nothing broke that couldn’t be fixed. It was exactly this kind of ordinariness that allowed us to fully experience and enjoy where we were.

While a lot of people are making resolutions right now, I like to choose one word to inspire and set the tone for the upcoming year. While “listen” was the perfect companion to our more introspective, slow-living year, I already feel a shift going into 2017. Tethered by a strong sense of place, I’m ready to reach out, connect and share with other Wild Ones. My word this year is COMMUNITY! Here are a few ways I’m working on manifesting this sentiment into our every day life:

FAMILY

My parents are moving into a house on the farm, and their presence and support will mean big changes for us. It’s not going to be all penny whistles and moon pies, but I’m open and ready for a more village-inspired experience and mentality!

FOREST FRIDAY

Towards the end of the year, I started a nature-play group. I originally heard about this idea from Dawn Suzette over at Mud Puddles and Meteors. Here is a great periscope where she shares more details on how she sets up her Forest Fridays. My goal with our Forest Fridays this year is to meet as consistently as possible and to reflect the needs and curiosity of the kids who are showing up every week.

THE MOON COLLECTIVE

While it’s important for me to give my energy to my family, I also want to make time for myself. And in 2017 that means meeting and developing relationships within The Michigan Moon Collective, an incredible group of women who meet every full moon to talk poetry, ideas, nature and whatever other loveliness emerges! We connected through a #puremichigan hashtag (yes, it’s true), but why not create your own moon group? The full moon printable and poster is ready, get it here and track the dates of each full moon with us this year.

OUTSCHOOLING

Last but not least, I’m so excited to grow and nourish the Outschoolers in the Wilder Child Facebook Group. The sheer passion and knowledge inside of this group has blown me away, and I want to honor and support the dynamic community that is growing there.  If you’re not already a part of the group, the first of the year is the perfect time to join. Join for free here.

Well, that’s it from me. Now, I want to hear from you, what’s your word for this upcoming year? Do share in the comments below!

Thank you for a beautiful 2016 – I can’t wait to share 2017 with you…

Your Woman Gone Wild,

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