Experience areas of Sholom Park that were not covered at your first Walk and Talk. Explore the Enchanted Forest, Fragrance Trail, Food Forest, and a behind the scenes look at how the park is operated with Managing Director, Robert Colen and Park Manager, Brian DeVane in Part Two of Sholom Park's Walk and Talk. Registered students will meet at the pavilion near the restrooms.
William Bartram called it the Great Alachua Savanna. We know it as Paynes Prairie. On this chapter of our "Bartram's Florida" series, we'll take a 3 mile stroll onto the wetland savanna made famous by the young explorer in 1774. The talk will include a brief overview of the prairie's rich history from Lars Andersen, author of "Paynes Prairie: A History and Guide."
Note: Meeting time at park is 9 AM; There is a $5 Park Fee payable at the entrance day of trip. The trip duration is 1.5 - 2 hours long. Difficulty: Easy, two mile stroll on easy (mostly flat) terrain. Since this is an out-and-back hike, participants who can't do the entire hike are welcome to turn back at any time. Skill level: Good for beginners.
The Withlacoochee and lower Rainbow Rivers near Dunellen offer a different look at "old Florida" as well as the more "modern" appearance. This course features a three-hour boat ride with an experienced river boat Captain. Great opportunity to learn about all the wading/water birds you are likely to encounter in Florida. Lots of songbirds too!
The first class will be in the classroom with discussion and video presentation on any of the birds we are likely to see. You should be able to identify most of them accurately by the end of this first class. The second class will be a boat ride and will begin with about one mile of the Rainbow River and as much of the Withlacoochee as we can cover in the allotted time. Enjoy up close and personal views of magnificent birds with great photo opportunities. An optional luncheon will follow at a nearby riverside cafe where we will make up a list of all the birds we have seen and/or heard on the boat-ride. Second class date field trip directions: Rt. 484 to Dunnellon. Turn left at the first traffic light - Rt.41. Park in Municipal lot in front of City Hall. Boat sails from Public Boat Ramp.
This will be a slow-poking exploration, geared toward inquisitive paddlers who are more interested in learning wild lore than covering distance. Unlike our other paddle tour/classes, this one will only cover a couple of miles in total, allowing time to drift, observe and learn about the river's plants, animals, archaeology, history and other wild lore.
If you want to see more of the river and learn a bit less of its wild lore, I recommend one of the other great courses offered in this catalog. Difficulty: Easy paddle, going downstream and then returning against a light current. Skill level: Good for beginners.
There is a $6 Park Fee the day of class. The trip lasts approx. 2.5 hours.
Meeting time (at launch site): 9 a.m. Kayaks are provided. After registering for the class, participants should call (386) 497-4214 during the week prior to the trip to discuss any special needs or requests and confirm an email address for launch site directions. Lunch not included in price.
Experience areas of Sholom Park that were not covered at your first Walk and Talk. Explore the Enchanted Forest, Fragrance Trail, Food Forest, and a behind the scenes look at how the park is operated with Managing Director, Robert Colen and Park Manager, Brian DeVane in Part Two of Sholom Park's Walk and Talk. Registered students will meet at the pavilion near the restrooms.
This will be a slow-poking exploration, geared toward inquisitive paddlers who are more interested in learning wild lore than covering distance. Unlike our other paddle tour/classes, this one will only cover a couple of miles in total, allowing time to drift, observe and learn about the river's plants, animals, archaeology, history and other wild lore.
If you want to see more of the river and learn a bit less of its wild lore, I recommend one of the other great courses offered in this catalog. Difficulty: Easy paddle, going downstream and then returning against a light current. Skill level: Good for beginners.
There is a $6 Park Fee the day of class. The trip lasts approx. 2.5 hours.
Meeting time (at launch site): 9 a.m. Kayaks are provided. After registering for the class, participants should call (386) 497-4214 during the week prior to the trip to discuss any special needs or requests and confirm an email address for launch site directions. Lunch not included in price.
Experience areas of Sholom Park that were not covered at your first Walk and Talk. Explore the Enchanted Forest, Fragrance Trail, Food Forest, and a behind the scenes look at how the park is operated with Managing Director, Robert Colen and Park Manager, Brian DeVane in Part Two of Sholom Park's Walk and Talk. Registered students will meet at the pavilion near the restrooms.
Escape into the natural beauty of Sholom Park with a two-day, all-inclusive retreat designed to reconnect you with nature, restore your inner balance, and renew your vitality. Immerse yourself in a thoughtfully curated program featuring a blend of mindfulness, creative expression, and holistic wellness. Each session is led by expert practitioners who will guide you through transformative experiences that nurture your mind, body, and spirit. This retreat offers a unique opportunity to rejuvenate and reconnect with both yourself and the natural world. By registering for the entire two-day package, you will receive a 15% discount on the total cost. Retreat Schedule:
Day 1: February 14, 2024
8 AM - 9 AM:Sholom Park Welcome Reception / Meet and Greet - Part 1
Start your day with a light breakfast, followed by a mindful walk through Sholom Park, where you can immerse yourself in its serene beauty and explore its rich history, vision, and unique symbolism.
9 AM - 11 AM:Ida Covi, MA: iRewild Forest Bathing for Health & Wellness
Experience the scientifically proven benefits of forest bathing, enhancing your well-being through nature immersion.
11 AM - 12 PM:Lunch Break
Bring your own lunch or explore one of the many local eateries. During this time, Sholom Park staff will be onsite to discuss the Zen Garden and Labyrinth with attendees, offering insights into how to use these tranquil spaces for meditation, reflection, and relaxation.
12 PM - 1:45 PM:Joanna Gardner, PhD: iRewild Writing as A Gateway to The Soul
Explore the healing power of storytelling and memoir writing as a means to connect with your inner wisdom.
2 PM - 4 PM:Casandra Akins and Ida Covi, MA: iRewild The Art of Feeling Alive
Reignite your zest for life by embracing physical, emotional, and spiritual aliveness in this transformative workshop.
Day 2: February 15, 2024
8 AM - 9 AM:Sholom Park Welcome Reception / Meet and Greet - Part 2
Start your day with a light breakfast, followed by a mindful walk through Sholom Park, where you can immerse yourself in its serene beauty and explore its rich history, vision, and unique symbolism.
9 AM - 11 AM:Ida Covi, MA: iRewild Forest Bathing: Restoring Inner Strength
Engage in forest bathing to support healing, restore inner strength, and find peace amidst the healing power of nature.
11 AM - 12 PM:Lunch Break
Bring your own lunch or explore one of the many local eateries. During this time, Sholom Park staff will be onsite to discuss the Zen Garden and Labyrinth with attendees, offering insights into how to use these tranquil spaces for meditation, reflection, and relaxation.
12 PM - 1:45 PM:Peter Angood, MD: iRewild Rethinking Wellness
Discover the science behind how nature exposure enhances wellness and overall life through this enlightening session.
2 PM - 4 PM:Linda M. Spencer: iRewild Sound Bathing
Conclude the retreat with a meditative sound bath, using quartz crystal singing bowls to promote deep relaxation and inner peace.
Note: The Sholom Park Welcome Reception / Meet and Greet including a light breakfast is only available with the full 2-day package.
This unique retreat provides automatic registration for all scheduled events above, all necessary materials, and a serene environment for personal growth and rejuvenation. See individual workshops for more complete description.
Hotel accommodations at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott are available for this retreat at a discounted rate. If interested, please contact us at 352-861-9751 for more information.
Event #:CMT159 Location:Sholom ParkMembers: $272; General Public: $272
Day of Week | Event Dates | Time: F Sa | 2/14/2025 & 2/15/2025 | 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spots Available:20
Forest bathing is not just for nature lovers. It is a scientifically-proven practice to support health and wellbeing through simply sitting or walking in a natural environment and consciously becoming aware of your surroundings through your senses. The sounds of the forest, the scent of the flowers, the wind playing through the leaves, the feel of water in a stream – these experiences act as a balm for our busy lives. The key is not to hike a long distance or climb a mountain, but to leave behind the stress of our daily lives as we help to inspire your curiosity, awareness, and re-sensitize your senses to the natural world around you, all the while receiving nature’s many health benefits.
Each workshop is designed to deepen your connection with the natural world, restore inner balance, and promote personal growth. Led by expert instructors, these sessions nurture your mind, body, and spirit, offering tools for renewal and well-being. You can register for each workshop independently, or to get the full experience, enjoy a discounted two-day all-inclusive package instead.
Hotel accommodations at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott are available for this retreat at a discounted rate. If interested, please contact us at 352-861-9751 for more information.
Event #:CMT159 Location:Sholom ParkMembers: $40; General Public: $40
Day of Week | Event Date | Time: F | 2/14/2025 | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Spots Available:5
Like myth, memoir presupposes that there is a certain unity to human experience, that we all share similar hopes, dreams, and desires. When we tell the story of how and where we grew up, who our parents were, how the significant people in our lives influenced us, and what challenges and obstacles we faced, we are locating ourselves within an ancient human tradition of storytelling and meaning-making. Writing down our stories help us to find meaning in our lives by showing us how our lives fit into a larger mythic pattern. Immerse yourself in a holistic experience that facilitates the ability to compassionately hear and release the stories that live within you, for they exist to heal and restore you.
Each workshop is designed to deepen your connection with the natural world, restore inner balance, and promote personal growth. Led by expert instructors, these sessions nurture your mind, body, and spirit, offering tools for renewal and well-being. You can register for each workshop independently, or to get the full experience, enjoy a discounted two-day all-inclusive package instead.
Hotel accommodations at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott are available for this retreat at a discounted rate. If interested, please contact us at 352-861-9751 for more information.
Event #:CMT159 Location:Sholom ParkMembers: $40; General Public: $40
Day of Week | Event Date | Time: F | 2/14/2025 | 12:00 PM - 1:45 PM Spots Available:5
"The Art of Feeling Alive" is a transformative workshop designed to reignite your zest for life. Children embody this aliveness effortlessly, always immersed in the present, curious about every sight, sound, smell, and sensation. Imagine how joyful and excited your inner child would feel when given the same opportunity. This workshop emphasizes the importance of opening oneself to the full spectrum of experiences—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—to capture this vibrant aliveness. Attendees will be encouraged to delve into life’s rich tapestry: emotions, thoughts, soul, and self-expression. This workshop offers a safe and supportive space for personal growth, rediscovering passions, and unlocking a renewed sense of vitality. Whether breaking free from routine, overcoming obstacles, or simply infusing more vibrancy into daily life, "The Art of Feeling Alive" provides the tools and inspiration to awaken the spirit and embrace each moment with renewed enthusiasm.
Each workshop is designed to deepen your connection with the natural world, restore inner balance, and promote personal growth. Led by expert instructors, these sessions nurture your mind, body, and spirit, offering tools for renewal and well-being. You can register for each workshop independently, or to get the full experience, enjoy a discounted two-day all-inclusive package instead.
Hotel accommodations at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott are available for this retreat at a discounted rate. If interested, please contact us at 352-861-9751 for more information.
Event #:CMT159 Location:Sholom ParkMembers: $40; General Public: $40
Day of Week | Event Date | Time: F | 2/14/2025 | 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Spots Available:4
Navigating through trauma, healing old wounds, and breaking free from the past can be deeply challenging, impacting not only your physical well-being but also your mental and emotional resilience. Those who have endured such experiences often wrestle with the lasting effects, struggling to find a path towards healing and restoration. While therapeutic interventions are crucial for recovery, nature-based practices contribute an additional layer of peace and well-being. The transformative potential of nature emerges as a valuable and complementary aspect to your well-being. Engaging with the natural world offers you a healing refuge, allowing you to reconnect with your inner strength and rediscover your inner wellspring of joy and self-love amidst the complexities of your healing journey.
Each workshop is designed to deepen your connection with the natural world, restore inner balance, and promote personal growth. Led by expert instructors, these sessions nurture your mind, body, and spirit, offering tools for renewal and well-being. You can register for each workshop independently, or to get the full experience, enjoy a discounted two-day all-inclusive package instead.
Hotel accommodations at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott are available for this retreat at a discounted rate. If interested, please contact us at 352-861-9751 for more information.
Event #:CMT159 Location:Sholom ParkMembers: $40; General Public: $40
Day of Week | Event Date | Time: Sa | 2/15/2025 | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Spots Available:5
Have you ever wondered why you feel more energized while spending time outdoors? Why sitting in the sand by the ocean, hiking through the woods, having a picnic in a park, or swimming in a lake leaves you feeling both invigorated and at peace? Mounting scientific evidence now shows how experiencing nature can improve our overall health and life: our immune system is boosted, oxygen uptake is higher, lung and heart functions are improved, our body produces more endorphins, and cellular repair mechanisms become more efficient. Building on this evolving scientific literature, physicians are now writing prescriptions for their patients to spend time outdoors in green spaces. iRewild Institute’s collaborative expert, Dr. Peter Angood, delivers a life-changing presentation where participants learn about the science of how nature exposure benefits their wellness and overall life.
Each workshop is designed to deepen your connection with the natural world, restore inner balance, and promote personal growth. Led by expert instructors, these sessions nurture your mind, body, and spirit, offering tools for renewal and well-being. You can register for each workshop independently, or to get the full experience, enjoy a discounted two-day all-inclusive package instead.
Hotel accommodations at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott are available for this retreat at a discounted rate. If interested, please contact us at 352-861-9751 for more information.
Event #:CMT159 Location:Sholom ParkMembers: $40; General Public: $40
Day of Week | Event Date | Time: Sa | 2/15/2025 | 12:00 PM - 1:45 PM Spots Available:5
This workshop offers participants a transformative sound bath experience with Linda Spencer and her quartz crystal singing bowls. We invite you to immerse yourself in the soothing vibrations of these quartz crystal singing bowls during a meditative journey that encourages deep relaxation, whether lying down or sitting. Let the resonant sounds wash over you, creating waves of tranquility that lead to a profound state of meditation. Our goal is to create a tapestry of sound that envelops participants, facilitating a journey of deep relaxation and inner peace. We strongly suggest wearing loose fitting, comfortable clothing and bringing your own mat or blanket for maximum comfort and relaxation.
Each workshop is designed to deepen your connection with the natural world, restore inner balance, and promote personal growth. Led by expert instructors, these sessions nurture your mind, body, and spirit, offering tools for renewal and well-being. You can register for each workshop independently, or to get the full experience, enjoy a discounted two-day all-inclusive package instead.
Hotel accommodations at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott are available for this retreat at a discounted rate. If interested, please contact us at 352-861-9751 for more information.
Event #:CMT159 Location:Sholom ParkMembers: $40; General Public: $40
Day of Week | Event Date | Time: Sa | 2/15/2025 | 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Spots Available:5
Experience areas of Sholom Park that were not covered at your first Walk and Talk. Explore the Enchanted Forest, Fragrance Trail, Food Forest, and a behind the scenes look at how the park is operated with Managing Director, Robert Colen and Park Manager, Brian DeVane in Part Two of Sholom Park's Walk and Talk. Registered students will meet at the pavilion near the restrooms.
Note: There is a $5 park fee payable by cash on day of trip.
On this 3.5 mile kayak/canoe exploration of the upper Ichetucknee, we will enjoy some of North Florida's most stunningly beautiful waterways while learning about its interesting geological formations, including beautiful limestone outcroppings and seven named springs.
Paddlers will also hear some of the rich history that has made this one of Florida's most famous rivers. For 14,000 yrs, these waters have quenched the thirst of Indians, Spanish missionaries and DeSoto's conquistadors!
Meeting time (at launch site): 10 AM. There is a $5 Park Fee. Trip duration: 2 hours. Difficulty: Easy paddle, going downstream with the current. Skill level: Good for beginners.
The Withlacoochee and lower Rainbow Rivers near Dunellen offer a different look at "old Florida" as well as the more "modern" appearance. This course features a three-hour boat ride with an experienced river boat Captain. Great opportunity to learn about all the wading/water birds you are likely to encounter in Florida. Lots of songbirds too!
The first class will be in the classroom with discussion and video presentation on any of the birds we are likely to see. You should be able to identify most of them accurately by the end of this first class. The second class will be a boat ride and will begin with about one mile of the Rainbow River and as much of the Withlacoochee as we can cover in the allotted time. Enjoy up close and personal views of magnificent birds with great photo opportunities. An optional luncheon will follow at a nearby riverside cafe where we will make up a list of all the birds we have seen and/or heard on the boat-ride. Second class date field trip directions: Rt. 484 to Dunnellon. Turn left at the first traffic light - Rt.41. Park in Municipal lot in front of City Hall. Boat sails from Public Boat Ramp.
On this kayak/canoe tour of Cross Creek and portions of Orange and Lochloosa Lakes, we'll explore the wild realm made famous by Pulitzer prize winning author, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings. The charming creek, beautiful lake vistas and abundant wildlife remain little changed since the early - mid 1900's, when Rawlings lived here and wrote such Florida classics as The Yearling and Cross Creek. Good for beginners, basic lessons included. Please meet at the launch site at 9 AM. The trip is 2 - 2.5 hours. The difficulty: Easy paddle, going downstream and then returning against a light current.
Note: After registering for the class, all participants should call (386) 497-4214 during the week prior to the trip to discuss equipment needs and confirm an email address for launch site directions.
On this easy, 2-2.5 hrs. tour we'll follow broad, winding channels through an array of broad marshes and shrubby islands, viewing the myriad plant and animal species those rich ecosystems support. In addition to an interesting history, this tour is a birders wonderland. Most years, in spring and early summer months, we pass a large rookery of assorted waders and water birds.
After registering for the class, all participants should call (386) 497-4214 during the week prior to the trip to discuss equipment needs and confirm an email address for launch site directions.
Note: Participants will meet at the launch site at 10 a.m. Kayakers will receive an email a day or two prior to the trip to discuss specific launch directions.
William Bartram called it the Great Alachua Savanna. We know it as Paynes Prairie. On this chapter of our "Bartram's Florida" series, we'll take a 3 mile stroll onto the wetland savanna made famous by the young explorer in 1774. The talk will include a brief overview of the prairie's rich history from Lars Andersen, author of "Paynes Prairie: A History and Guide."
Note: Meeting time at park is 9 AM; There is a $5 Park Fee payable at the entrance day of trip. The trip duration is 1.5 - 2 hours long. Difficulty: Easy, two mile stroll on easy (mostly flat) terrain. Since this is an out-and-back hike, participants who can't do the entire hike are welcome to turn back at any time. Skill level: Good for beginners.
Unlike other coastal regions, where civilization crowds shoulder-to-shoulder along the shore, like lemmings amassing for their mythical plunge into the sea, nature still rules in the Cedar Keys area of Florida's Big Bend. It's a low, wet country where the "shoreline" defies definition, ever-changing, shrinking and expanding, with the ebb and flow of tides.
Difficulty: Open water is easy if calm weather. Moderate if it's breezy. We won't go if the forecast is too windy (or inclement in any way). Skill level: Good for beginners. Meeting time (at launch site): 10 AM
After registering for the class, all participants should call (386) 497-4214 during the week prior to the trip to discuss equipment needs and confirm an email address for launch site directions. Lunch is not included in price.
Instructor:Lars AndersenMembers: $51; General Public: $56
Course #: TRI130 | Room:Field Trip Day of Week | Date | Time:Tu | 6/10/2025 | 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM Seats Available:15
By registering, I agree to INDEMNIFY AND HOLD HARMLESS Master the Possibilities, Inc., Sidney Colen & Associates, Ltd., On Top of the World Communities, Inc., Horticultural Arts & Park Institute, Inc., Bay Laurel Community Development District, and any of their agents, directors, officers, representatives, volunteers and employees from any and all loss, damage, injury, action or cause of action resulting from the classes, events, or trips and/or equipment owned or operated or permitted to be used or operated or is used or operated. This Release Waiver and Hold Harmless Agreement includes those classes, events, or trips inside or outside of Master the Possibilities, Inc. For the full waiver, visit https://www.masterthepossibilities.org/sites/default/files/PDF/WaiverofLiability.pdf.
If class is cancelled by the participant because of COVID positive results, there will still be a processing fee incurred by the participant.
