CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

Instructor Name: Christiana Childers

Instructor Bio: Christiana Childers, professional photographer and founder of Cork and Click photography classes, has been teaching digital photography for 12 years and is passionate about showing people all that they can do with their cameras.

“Photography has taught me many lessons; how to slow down, how to savor, how to remember, how to connect, how to see beauty in the ordinary and even has helped heal me in times of grief. I can’t wait to teach you how to express yourself through photography.”

Workshop Description: Cork and Click is all about teaching photography in an easy to understand, low stress environment. Learn the essentials of smartphone photography while sipping a glass of bubbly! In this workshop, you’ll explore easy-to-understand photography techniques that will help you get the most out of the powerful camera you carry every day—your smartphone.

From capturing stunning portraits to action shots, mastering lighting and composition, and editing and sharing your work, this class will unlock your creativity and boost your confidence behind the lens. Embrace the incredible potential of today’s smartphone technology and take your photography skills to the next level!

In our time, you will learn:

• Camera Basics – Learn about the basic features of your camera, such as burst mode and portrait mode, and when to use them.
• Exposure and Metering – Learn how to adjust the exposer and understand the camera’s meter.
• Composition – make your images sing by understanding some compositional tools and rules.
• Lighting – without light, photography wouldn’t be possible! Understand how to look for and manipulate light for better images.
• Favorite Photo Apps – There are many useful apps that will take your photo to the next level!
• Equipment and Accessories – Learn about some suggested add-ons that could help you capture your image.

Workshop Sessions:
Saturday 2:30 – 4:30 pm (CLASS FULL)

Instructor Name: Tracy Matsue Loeffelholz

Instructor Bio: Tracy Matsue Loeffelholz grew up in the food culture of Hawaii’s Japanese community, whose food traditions connect generation after generation — nissei, sansei, yonsei — to our issei, who brought their southern Japanese farm recipes with them to Hawaii at the end the Meiji era. She began a focused study of washoku cooking with chef Elizabeth Andoh and the Tsudoi Project. Tracy teaches at The Pantry in Seattle and at Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network. She is a recipe developer for Providence Heart Institute, with certificates in health coaching from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition and from the CHEF coaching program at Harvard’s Institute of Lifestyle Medicine.

Workshop Description: Learn how the 15 principles and practices of traditional Japanese food culture can offer a path to balanced nutrition, fun in the kitchen, and delicious meals.

Together we will make a simple “5-Color Miso Soup,” a perfect solution for breakfast on the go, and also a perfect recipe to introduce and discuss washoku principles. Washoku principles include cooking with 5 colors, 5 flavors, seasonal and local ingredients, diversity of ingredients, connection to nature, and attitudes of gratitude and community.

We will end the session with a discussion of ingredient diversity as an easy way to support the healing of our bodies and our planet. In Japanese schools, students are encouraged to eat 30 different ingredients a day. The miso soup will be built in individual jars that you can take with you. Handouts will include a card outlining the 15 principles of washoku cooking and eating, the recipe for the “5-Color Miso Soup,” and a weeklong ingredient log that participants can use to track the ingredients they eat in a day – aiming for 30.

Workshop Available:

Saturday 9:00 – 10:30 am (CLASS FULL) or Sunday 8:30 – 10:00 am (CLASS FULL)

Instructor Name: The Edge

Instructor Bio: The Edge Improv is a Bainbridge Island-based comedy group known for their quick wit and spontaneous performances. For over two decades, they’ve delighted audiences with unscripted, off-the-cuff humor, creating hilarious scenes and stories based entirely on audience suggestions. A favorite on the local arts scene, The Edge Improv brings a unique, interactive experience to every show, offering laughter and surprises that keep crowds coming back for more. Their talented cast of improvisers ensures that no two performances are ever the same!

Workshop Description: Let’s have fun together! This dynamic, interactive workshop offers a fun and supportive space to explore the exciting world of improvisational theater. Led by the women of The Edge, who bring a wealth of experience and playfulness to share, you’ll learn the core principles of improv, including spontaneity, collaboration, and creative thinking. Discover the tools to build scenes and stories from scratch, working together in a playful and encouraging environment. Whether you’re new to improv or looking to sharpen your skills, this class is designed to inspire creativity, boost confidence, and cultivate the joy of unscripted storytelling!

Workshop Available:
Saturday 9:00 – 10:30 am

Instructor Name: Megan Trumper, IslandWood Staff Instructor

Instructor Bio:

Megan comes to us by way of the Muwekma Ohlone lands of California’s central coast. She spent her formative years tending the family garden, exploring the creek behind her house, and hiking or running in the local park. She believes that exploring those places where the urban and natural worlds meet is what first sparked her interest in ecological study and outdoor recreation, but her passions would not be fully realized until later in life.

After receiving her BA in Literary Studies from UC Santa Cruz, the recession sent Megan in search of a more fulfilling career than the path she had initially chosen. Determined to work in the outdoors, she went back to school for her Park Management degree, during which time she enjoyed part time jobs in Park Maintenance, Education Outreach, and invasive species removal. Megan’s love of field work and outreach led her to a career as a Park Ranger for Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. This position challenged her to take on a multitude of roles (first responder, law enforcement officer, wildland fire fighter, park maintenance worker, educator etc.), but her passion was most fully expressed when developing and facilitating educational programming. It wasn’t long before Megan was tasked with attending a Certified Interpretive Trainer course from the National Association for Interpretation (NAI), in order to develop and facilitate interpretive training for fellow rangers along with a team of her peers.

As with most origin stories, the universe saw fit to send Megan on a new quest. After proposing on the top of Mount Whitney, Megan followed her partner and his Coast Guard career from California to Florida and eventually on to the great Pacific North West. During this journey Megan took advantage of the downtime afforded by COVID and went back to school yet again, this time for Environmental Education (EE). While attending Prescott College, she facilitated the first ever Virtual Certified Interpretive Guide courses where she utilized her coursework to enrich the standard curriculum for US and international students.  Megan’s Master’s work and capstone focused on inclusive program design and creating an inclusive community both in and out of the classroom even in a virtual setting. She graduated with honors upon her arrival in Washington State.

Since then she has been looking for ways to use her unique combination of education and experience to give back to her community. She has spoken at conferences, continued to provide interpretive trainings, and participated in a standards review committee for NAI. Megan is excited to start working in person again and believes that spending time in the outdoors is a transformative experience and should be available to absolutely everyone.

Workshop Description: Ever wonder what IslandWood offers for visiting school kids each week? Join one of our knowledgeable docents for a journey of discovery! This vigorous hike takes you deep into the forest ravine, across the suspension bridge, and up our 120-foot canopy tower, offering breathtaking views and a new perspective on the natural world. Along the way, discover how nature inspires hands-on learning and adventure at IslandWood and experience firsthand how nature becomes the ultimate classroom. It’s a perfect opportunity to experience the magic of our campus and see firsthand how we connect students to the natural world.

Workshop Sessions:
Sunday 8:30 – 10:00 am

Instructor Name: Sterling Rose

Instructor Bio: Sterling is the founder of Sterling Rose Art, a business in the creative and wellness space focusing on self-expression and healing through art creation, embodiment and nature immersion. As an artist, healer and mentor Sterling teaches and curates workshops and retreats to guide people in an exploration and reconnection to self. As a bi-coastal leader in this space, she is very passionate about supporting people in their evolution with the tools of breathwork, meditation, land art, photography and energy healing. Sterling’s goal is to bring people back to the simplicity and grace of nature, to realize their inner power and that they too are a work of art!

Workshop Description:Join us for an inspiring and interactive arts practice that connects you deeply with the land. This workshop, led by Sterling, honors the natural elements while encouraging introspection, creativity, and connection. We will begin in a sacred circle, setting intentions and grounding ourselves through guided teaching. From there, participants will mindfully forage materials from the landscape to create a collective land art piece. After completing the artwork, Sterling will lead a meditation to honor the earth, followed by a celebratory dance—captured by drone for a unique perspective on our creation. Expect a powerful blend of creativity, mindfulness, and community celebration in this one-of-a-kind experience!

Workshop Available:

9:00 – 10:30 am

Instructor Name: Stacy Hemmingway

Instructor Bio: Stacy Hemmingway is the founder of Conscious Classroom, an innovative educational platform designed to cultivate mindfulness and emotional well-being for students. With a background in education and a passion for holistic learning, Stacy has dedicated her career to empowering teachers and students to create supportive, mindful learning environments. Her work emphasizes emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and social connection, helping to foster healthier, more engaged classrooms across the country. Stacy is a sought-after speaker and workshop leader, known for her practical, heart-centered approach to education and personal growth.

Workshop Description: In this workshop, participants will explore the power of breathwork as a tool for emotional balance and mindful living. The session will begin with a centering practice, reflecting on the importance of self-regulation and the role of mindful breathing. Participants will be guided through various breathwork techniques, for energizing the body, calming anxiety, refocusing, and more. The workshop will conclude with a mindful movement chair practice. and open discussion, equipping attendees with techniques to stay grounded in their daily lives.

Workshop Available:

Saturday 9:00 – 10:30 am (CLASS FULL)

Instructor Name: Stacy Hemmingway

Instructor Bio: Stacy Hemmingway is the founder of Conscious Classroom, an innovative educational platform designed to cultivate mindfulness and emotional well-being for students. With a background in education and a passion for holistic learning, Stacy has dedicated her career to empowering teachers and students to create supportive, mindful learning environments. Her work emphasizes emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and social connection, helping to foster healthier, more engaged classrooms across the country. Stacy is a sought-after speaker and workshop leader, known for her practical, heart-centered approach to education and personal growth.

Workshop Description: In this workshop, participants will explore mindfulness and meditation as key tools for self-regulation and emotional well-being. The session begins with a centering practice, encouraging reflection on the importance of mindfulness in daily life. Through sensory grounding exercises and mindful self-inquiry, attendees will deepen their awareness of how they perceive the world. Participants will also learn a variety of meditation techniques and practical tools to integrate mindfulness and meditation into their daily routines for enhanced focus and emotional balance

Workshop Available:

Sunday 8:30 – 10:00 am (CLASS FULL)

Instructor Name: Vicky Edmonds

Instructor Bio: Vicky Edmonds is a poet and teacher who uses the written and spoken word as a means of trying to understand the mysteries that are still unsolved in our lives. She has worked in hundreds of facilities with adults, adolescents and children, at-risk populations, arts organizations, teachers, counselors and parenting groups.

Workshop Description: Writing can inspire us… it can change and open our world. Through our own hand, from our own voice still inside, it can guide us to the hope in our lives. The intimacy of this kind of poetry, the essential need for it in our lives is to bring us back home to ourselves, again and again, until we can finally live there.

In this workshop, learn the basics of poetry writing to change and open our world. Invisible Beauties uses the art and practice of writing to unearth more meaning in the worlds both around us and within us. We will use simple poetic elements as a way of moving into the center of ourselves and writing from there, the deepest and most genuine places where truth resides. In this class we will write poems to try to find more of the beauty that’s always been waiting inside of us as well as using the time we have to appreciate our relationships with our closest and most trusted others.

* No previous writing experience is necessary *

Workshop Available:

Saturday 9:00 – 10:30 am

Instructor Name: Vicky Edmonds

Instructor Bio: Vicky Edmonds is a poet and teacher who uses the written and spoken word as a means of trying to understand the mysteries that are still unsolved in our lives. She has worked in hundreds of facilities with adults, adolescents and children, at-risk populations, arts organizations, teachers, counselors and parenting groups.

Workshop Description: Writing can inspire us… it can change and open our world. Through our own hand, from our own voice still inside, it can guide us to the hope in our lives. The intimacy of this kind of poetry, the essential need for it in our lives is to bring us back home to ourselves, again and again, until we can finally live there.

How do we find deeper meaning in the beautiful and even the difficult experiences of our lives? Thoughts and feelings move through us like whirlwinds, but we were never shown how to slow down and deeply listen to them. In this workshop, we will learn the basics of poetry writing to explore how we connect with others and navigate life’s challenges. Through creative expression, you’ll craft a Greater Than the Sum of the Parts poem that reflects the journey back to love and connection.

* No previous writing experience is necessary *

Workshop Available:

Saturday 2:30 – 4:30 pm

Instructor Name: Anne-Marie Sargent

Instructor Bio: I’m a serious hobbyist who picked up art late in life and discovered it is a skill, and like any other skill, the more you do it, the better it is. I’ve always loved art and museums, pens and paper, but never thought I could draw or paint. I started watercolor painting in my early 40s – no matter your age, it is never too late. I enjoy sharing tips and tricks in a playful environment for drawing and painting with people who are new to art and watercolor and don’t yet know that we are all artists.

Workshop Description: Join local artist Anne-Marie Sargent for an inspiring workshop that invites you to observe and capture the beauty of the world around you through the art of nature journaling. Together, we will walk through nature, reflect on our surroundings, and learn simple techniques to bring your observations to life on paper with ink and watercolor. Whether you’re new to art or looking to try something different, this workshop offers a welcoming space for creativity and connection.

Perfect for beginners of all ages, no prior experience is necessary—just bring your curiosity and a desire to explore a new creative path!

Workshop Available:

Saturday 2:30 – 4:30 pm (CLASS FULL) or Sunday: 8:30 – 10:00 am (Sunday’s workshop is a shorter offering.)

Instructor Name: Cindi Schoettler & Debbi Brainerd

Instructor Bio: Cindi Schoettler is a certified Hudson Executive Coach who specializes in guidance through life transitions, leadership, team building, goal-setting and time management. Cindi brings over 30 years of expertise to her coaching and leadership work. She has a proven ability to listen to her clients and help inspire change.

Debbi Brainerd and her husband Paul co-founded IslandWood in 1999, after learning that Washington State mandated environmental education but only half of Puget Sound schoolchildren had access to environmental education programs. She is an active volunteer whose primary philanthropic interests include conservation, improving access to environmental education, and supporting sustainable community development. Debbi and her husband, Paul Brainerd, are also the founders of The Headwaters in Glenorchy, New Zealand, a sustainable tourism and community development project currently slated to open in late 2017.

Workshop Description: Join IslandWood founder, Debbi Brainerd and personal coach, Cindi Schoettler for a reflective hike through our beautiful trails, designed to help you connect with nature and yourself. As you walk, you’ll engage in meaningful discussions about how to bring more balance, happiness, and joy into your life. Topics will include shifting from being “humans doing” to “humans being” and learning to tune into your body’s wisdom. This hike offers a peaceful opportunity to slow down, embrace mindfulness, and discover new ways to nurture your well-being in the serenity of the outdoors.

Workshop Available:

Saturday 2:30 – 4:30 pm (CLASS FULL)

Instructor Name: Miriam Shiroma-Kentner, IslandWood Staff Educator

Instructor Bio: Miriam grew up in Indianola, WA on the beach and in the woods. She participated in our School Overnight Program in 2006 when she came with her 5^th-grade  Suquamish Elementary class. Miriam is a recent graduate of IslandWood’s graduate program, class of 2023, and completed her Master of Education at the University of Washington in 2024. She hopes to develop curriculum that contains principles and actions of how to incorporate environmental education, art, peace, and coexistence with the natural world into all classrooms. She loves to be on her paddleboard, block print, play tennis, and snuggle with her cat, Chamomile.

Workshop Description: Join us for a hands-on exploration along the shores of Mac’s Pond, where you’ll dip-net for critters and get an up-close look at them through field microscopes and hand lenses. Just like scientists, you’ll observe, identify, and learn about the fascinating creatures you catch. This engaging activity is inspired by one of our School Overnight Program activities and offers a fun, educational experience that connects you to the wonders of the natural world. Perfect for curious minds of all ages!

Workshop Available:

Saturday 2:30 – 4:30 pm

6:30-8:00am
Coffee, tea, fruit, & pastries
Dining Hall

7:00-8:00am
Forest walk or yoga
Welcome Center, Great Hall

8:00-9:00am
Hot breakfast
Dining Hall

9:00-10:30am
Workshop Session #1

• Invisible Beauties: Poetry Workshop, Learning Studio 102
• Intro to Washoku Cooking & Eating, Garden Classroom
• Breathwork for Self-Regulation, Great Hall
• Land Art Ceremony, Welcome Center
• Improv Workshop, Learning Studio 103

11:00am-12:00pm
Armchair conversation with Kristin Hannah
Great Hall

12:00-1:00pm
Lunch
Dining Hall

1:00-1:45pm
Q&A with Kristin Hannah
Great Hall

1:45–2:15pm
Kristin Hannah book signing
Welcome Center

2:30–4:30pm
Workshop Session #2

• The Joy of Sketch Journaling, Art Studio
• Greater than the Sum of the Parts: Poetry Workshop, Learning Studio 102
• Cork & Click, Learning Studio 105
• Water Wonders, Learning Studio 104
• The Soulful Hiker, Welcome Center

5:30-6:30pm
Happy hour
Welcome Center

6:30-7:30pm
Dinner
Dining Hall

7:30-9:30pm
Karaoke & dance party
Great Hall

6:30-8:00am
Coffee, tea, fruit, & pastries
Dining Hall

7:00-8:00am
Forest walk or yoga
Welcome Center, Great Hall

8:30–10:00am
Workshop Session #3

• The Joy of Sketch Journaling, Learning Studio 105
• Intro to Washoku Cooking & Eating, Garden Classroom
• Create a Paper Action Figure or Unique Cards, Art Studio
• Mindfulness & Meditation, Great Hall
• Canopy Tower Hike, Welcome Center

10:00-11:00am
Brunch, program, and presentation
Dining Hall

11:00am-12:00pm
Lodge check-out and departure
Welcome Center

Room check-in is in the Welcome Center between 4-6:00pm on Friday. The first scheduled activity is the evening reception starting at 5:30pm. On Sunday, please return room keys by 11:00am to the Welcome Center.

Yes, your room will have bedding and towels. You’ll need to pack your favorite toiletries, hairdryer, and any amenities you would like away from home.

We are unable to accommodate pre and post overnight stays.  There are several lovely hotels on Bainbridge Island though, including The Inn at Pleasant Beach and The Eagle Harbor Inn.

Yes! We have “no-lodging” tickets available, which include all the activities and meals for the weekend. Please note that Saturday-only tickets are not offered.

Proceeds from the weekend help support our immersive environmental learning programs for children, educators, and community members all over the Seattle region. Thank you for helping us to inspire the next generation of stewards that will care for and protect this beautiful planet!