July 19th, first meeting

The group had its first meeting, starting with personal introductions and a demonstration of fire by friction. Melanie noted how my entire posture and demeanor changed when I focused on the bow-drill set and smoke poured out of the wood. There's an appreciation of the magic of fire ingrained in our DNA or our collective unconscious.

Speaking of ingrained ways, we found the start of a shelter some kids had put up by a main trail. It showed the common shelter principle, without the practical experience of having slept in one. Even the most urban among us still feels the need to live in the woods, if only for an afternoon.

We wandered Rock Creek Park to check out the local flora and fauna, including noting the habits of the local squatter population. We went over a few common wild edibles and how to use field guides, as well as the general method for learning about the environment. We sampled garlic mustard leaves and maple seeds, noting berries that were not quite ready for harvesting.

And of course Matt and I disagreed over the identification of a plant that is neither gill-over-the-ground nor garlic mustard. More research needs to be done.

We finished on our way out by gathering jewelweed for my poison ivy rash, which is feeling much better now!

If you would like to participate in the next meeting, August 2nd, let us know, as everyone is welcome.