Just Play

The main focus of today's action was to get back in touch with understanding play.  And we basically learned how to play.  I was going to write a bunch about it, but the pictures say it all:

We got close playing the magic carpet game.  Successfully solidified the moat and avoided the trolls.

Carly played her 'found' instrument...

... and together with Amelea and Benji performed an original song.

Assir was Old Mr. Ladybug, kicking unwanted berry-pickers out of his berry patch.

Stephanie, Will, and Kara built a den.  It included a fire and chief necklaces.

Myself, Sarah, and Kaitlyn built a mini community.  It had houses, a  grocery store, ice cream truck, drive-in movie theater, lake with a sailor and a romantic bench, a wildlife refuge, and a community art piece with a picnic area.  It was inhabited by pine cone people.

Jess Hoffmire (Visitor Educator at the NC Zoo-- she is SO GOOD at playing.) and Amelea discovered an abandoned boat in the woods... and also some sinking mud

And we did a lot more, too.  Our debrief at the end of the day took a whole hour because everyone was so inspired and reminiscent about our childhood play-- so much of which was deep rooted in nature.  We also felt instantly comfortable and close with each other, like we have been together for much longer than 2 days.  Can't wait for tomorrow.