Bonnie Smith Whitehouse

With plenty of space to write and draw, a sewn-in ribbon bookmark, and weather-resistant covers, this small book can travel everywhere with you. I carry it like a child carries a favorite stuffed toy, at times in my hoodie pouch. I love the feel of the textured covers, the rustic country art, and the abundance of white space. The title is from Walt Whitman’s poem, “Song of the Earth” and the words “Afoot and Light-hearted” have become a meditative mantra as I walk.

A richness of quotes by a pleasing mix of familiar and lesser-known writers and a diversity of writing and meditation prompts inspire. One encouraged me to remember a childhood place, Holmes Road, where I once rescued a young American kestrel. Another prompt helped me to discover something new in a place I’d visited many, many times. The author is an English professor who integrates writing, environmental awareness, community service, and walking. Reading and using this book is like taking a course from her. Yet it is much more, for as I walk and journal, the pages are filled by hand, and the book becomes my own record of thoughts, feelings, memories, and observations. A heartfelt thank you to Ms. Whitehouse for creating this hopeful and helpful journaling book.… (altro)