About this Event
In this gentle, supportive gathering, we will explore how writing can open pathways through grief, illness, and other personal challenges. Through guided prompts, shared readings, and quiet reflection time, participants will be invited to slow down, listen inward, and give voice to their experiences.
Together we will create a welcoming space to write, reflect, and connect—with ourselves, each other, and the natural world around us. Time will be set aside for intentional writing exercises as well as moments to wander, observe, and allow inspiration to emerge organically. Participants may choose to share their work, listen, or simply write privately.
This workshop is open to anyone who feels called to explore their inner landscape through words. No poetry or writing experience is necessary—only curiosity and a willingness to show up as you are.
Come spend time in reflection, discover new ways of seeing your journey, and perhaps leave with a poem or two of your own.
Schedule
9:00 AM – Check-In & Arrival
Arrive, settle in, and enjoy a moment to ground before we begin.
9:30 AM – Opening Circle
We’ll gather for introductions and a brief circle share to set intentions and build a supportive space for the day.
Morning Session – Guided Writing Prompts
The morning will focus on three thoughtfully crafted writing prompts. Participants will split into smaller groups guided by Jan and Robert. Groups may rotate through prompts so everyone has an opportunity to be guided by both facilitators.
Lunch Break
Time to nourish ourselves, rest, and connect informally. We are exploring options for a catered lunch from local wellness-focused cooks who specialize in small gatherings. Final pricing will depend on the catering option selected.
Afternoon Session – Reflection, Writing & Q&A
The afternoon will offer more spacious time for free writing and reflection. Participants may also choose to join smaller Q&A conversations with Jan or Robert, depending on whether they feel called to explore writing through experiences of illness/cancer or grief more broadly.
Closing Poetry Circle
We will end the day with an optional poetry sharing circle—a gentle space to read a poem, share a line, or simply listen.
Optional Add-On Experiences
Cooking & Poetry with Jan
Participants may have the opportunity to join Jan for a special small-group experience combining cooking and poetry writing—part of a pilot exploration for her upcoming project on cooking and writing through grief.
Overnight Stay & Campfire Gathering
For those who want a deeper retreat experience, there may be options to stay overnight Friday and/or Saturday. Evenings could include a relaxed campfire gathering for storytelling, connection, and quiet reflection.
Morning Coffee & Tea
Guests staying overnight can enjoy coffee and tea in the morning, with the option for a simple breakfast or bringing their own.
Meet Your Facilitators
Jan Hummer, MA (she/her) is the founder of Sycamore Roots, a contemplative practice that supports individuals navigating grief, transition, creativity, and life’s many thresholds. She is a yoga teacher, Reiki practitioner, grief educator, and trained death doula with more than twenty years of experience in mindfulness-based education and mental health work. Jan holds a Master’s degree in Contemplative Education and is currently completing PhD research exploring contemplative end-of-life care for companion animals through ritual, painting, and embodied presence.
Her work weaves together poetry, visual art, somatic practices, and nature-based reflection. Jan has facilitated programs in schools, recovery centers, detention facilities, and national mental health organizations, and co-founded the nonprofit Open Minds, Inc., bringing mindfulness and creative expression to communities navigating trauma and change. A long-time student of medicinal plants, her practice is rooted in reverence for the more-than-human world and the quiet ways creativity helps us tend both grief and belonging.
JoAnn Coates Hunter holds a BS from University of Pittsburgh, MA from Earlham College/School of Religion and a teaching certificate from Brown University. JoAnn empowers and supports our stellar team, oversees operations, directs our educational programs, teaches, and brings her knowledge and excitement about the wonders of nature to visitors of all ages. Her work on the boards and steering committees of Community F.A.R.E., the Frederick County Food Council, and Frederick Farm to School serves to weave Fox Haven’s mission into the lives of farmers, students, and families struggling with food security and the food economy of Frederick County and the region. JoAnn’s hope is that everyone leaves Fox Haven with a new understanding of self, nature, and our inter-dependency with an action to take, be it a new gardening or farming technique, an energy-saving act, a letter or phone call to a business or governmental body, a plan for a community project or better nutrition.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Fox Haven Organic Farm & Learning Center, 3630 Poffenberger Rd., Jefferson, United States
USD 44.52 to USD 81.88
