New Beginnings
Welcome to Our Elements!
I am excited to finally share Our Elements Outdoor Learning with you all! After years of working in outdoor education and months of planning, dreaming, and preparing, I'm officially launching programs that bring people together outdoors to grow, learn, and connect with nature and each other. Having worked with thousands of students over my career, I've seen firsthand how transformative outdoor learning can be, and I'm thrilled to bring that same energy and passion to Our Elements.
To my loved ones who have supported me through this journey, thank you. Your encouragement, patience, and belief in this vision have meant a lot as I've navigated bringing Our Elements to life.
So, what is Our Elements?
Our mission is simple: Community supporting community, cultivating unity as we deepen our connection with the natural world. We believe the outdoors is a powerful classroom where people of all ages can build confidence, grow, and learn in a meaningful way with both the natural world and each other.
Why The Name Our Elements?
When we work with the natural world, we're experiencing the elements all around us and within us. The name also honors my Vietnamese heritage, 5 elements (Ngũ Hành): Metal (Kim), Wood (Mộc), Water (Thủy), Fire (Hỏa), and Earth (Thổ). It's a reminder that we're all connected to these elemental forces that shape our lives and our growth.
Why the dragonfly?
The dragonfly represents elemental transformation beautifully. Throughout its life cycle, it interacts with almost all five elements, beginning in water, emerging into air, warmed by fire (the sun), nourished by earth, and embodying the space between worlds. It's a perfect metaphor for personal growth, both inward and outward, and the growth we experience when we open ourselves to nature's lessons.
Programs we'll be offering include:
Youth Programming – Hands-on outdoor experiences for children, including shelter building, fire-making, crafting with natural materials, and team games that build confidence and collaboration.
Homeschool & School Partnerships – Curriculum-aligned outdoor education that supports learning standards, social-emotional development, and experiential learning. We meet you where you are, in your classroom, schoolyard, or out in nature.
Adult Workshops & Intergenerational Programs – Opportunities for adults and families to learn survival skills, reconnect with nature, and build community together.
Program dates will be posted on our website as they're confirmed, and I'll share updates here and on our other social media. I can't wait to get started and see this community grow!
Thank you for being here from the beginning. Excited to find ways to grow together.
