&quot;I attended a retreat on the Mornington Peninsula. The location was stunning with rugged beaches, expansive fading green autumnal fields, and skies as big as I’ve ever seen. My fellow participants in the retreat were all Australian, and I was moved by their warmth, hospitality and kindness.  I tapped into creative parts of myself that had sat dormant for years, some since childhood. I sang a song that is personally meaningful to me and toyed with guitar, practiced martial arts, experimented with photography, journaled and wrote poems, and even learned how to do woodwork. Carving, sanding, and varnishing a talking stick from a dead branch I found in the woods was my favourite activity from the weekend. I could actually sense the wood speaking to me. I look forward to using this talking stick in talking circles and watching as more of its story is revealed.  I also had a chance to wander aimlessly in nature. It reminded me of my childhood, spending hours alone in the woods behind my house, discovering secrets and enjoying the grand play ground that is nature. I was reminded this week of the connection between wellness, nature, community, creativity and peace. My intention is to let this experience infuse my work in the months and years to come.&quot; - Wes Hedden April '17   