MAR partnered with Book + Bottle to host a truly unique experience, Book + Bottle in the Wild, a half-day retreat designed to slow people down, get them outside, and create space for learning, reflection, and connection. Held at Osprey Roost within Boyd Hill, the day brought together a group of participants for what we like to call an “adult field trip”, blending nature, education, and creativity in a way that felt both intentional and relaxed.
Into the Wild: A Guided Nature Walk
The morning began with coffee and check-in, giving everyone time to settle into the space before heading out on a guided nature walk led by MAR. Using our Flora Identification Guide: Rooted in Florida: A Journey Through Our Native Trees & Flora, participants learned how to identify native species and better understand the ecosystems around them. The walk was a mix of guided education and personal exploration, giving people the tools and confidence to engage with nature on their own.
Lunch + Learn: The Art of Sourdough
After the walk, we transitioned into a Lunch + Learn session featuring a sourdough seminar led by Kelsey Yates. In a “cooking show” style format, Kelsey walked participants through the sourdough-making process, breaking it down into approachable, hands-on steps. Each person left with their own sourdough starter and a copy of Sourdough for the People, making it easy to continue the process at home.
Reading, Reflecting, and Rooting In
The afternoon shifted into a more reflective space, led by Book + Bottle. Participants took part in a guided group reading and journaling session centered around The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer. No pre-reading was required. Everyone received a copy of the book, along with a journal and pen, and worked through passages and prompts in small groups before coming together for a larger discussion.
One of the most meaningful parts of the day was the sense of connection that formed naturally. Many people came to the event on their own, and by the end of the retreat, new friendships had formed through shared experiences, conversations, and time spent learning together in nature.
Thank You to All Who Joined Us for Book + Bottle in the Wild!
This event was a reminder that environmental connection doesn’t have to be all physical labor. It can also look like learning, slowing down, observing, and building community in a thoughtful way.
We’re grateful to Book + Bottle for partnering with us to bring this experience to life, and to everyone who joined us for a day rooted in nature, creativity, and connection.
Want to be part of experiences like this? Follow along and keep an eye out for upcoming events. Whether you’re a longtime nature lover or just beginning to explore what environmental connection looks like for you, there’s a place for you here.
Event Photos
