Sketch of sit spot

I chose this spot because of its proximity to where I live. It’s about a three minute walk from where I stay. I also had seen this entrance to campus when I would walk the loop and was curious as to where it led. Now I know that it leads to the chapel and is right behind the Cocke building. Although the path is fairly short it still fosters a good amount of wildlife. Overall, it’s a convenient and calming spot to go to.

This spot was also interesting to be at because although it was not near a forest there was a variety of plants to be seen. At a first glance I figured that this would be a great place to observe because there was so much that could grow and change. The plant life ranged from different sized trees, to bushes, to flower-like plants. I also ran into a number of tiny flies and took it as a signal for a vibrant insect life awaiting.

My interactions with the outside world began even before I got to my sit spot. I saw an animal that resembled a groundhog or gopher scurry away into the forest at the sound of my footsteps. Once arriving at my sit spot by a bold broad tree, I noticed all of the plants and insects around me. I also felt the cold air of the morning and smelled the dampness in air from the previous night’s shower. It was easy for me to settle in and tune into the environment around me because everything felt so still and I had just woken up.

The view in front of me

There were a bunch of trees that looked as if they were tangled in front of where I was sitting. And right behind me was a hill with a number of bushes. At my feet there was patchy grass and a trail with a couple stones and sand-like dirt. I also saw a giant spider that was laying on a web that stretched far across, a couple of restless squirrels, and a small grey bird. I heard crickets in the background for most of my time there with the occasional sound of a car passing by on the loop and the singing of some birds.

I felt good about my first time at my sit spot. It was not too difficult to keep myself from looking at my phone. I was able to take the time to fully observe most of my surroundings. I remained focused and noticed some of the smaller plants and insects that make up an environment. Overall, it was really nice having the opportunity to reflect and fully wake up outside before starting my day and going to class.