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Hi Reader ,

Right after I wrote my email earlier this week, I was paging through a book I’ve had for a while to prepare for a student life experience where we used data points to create self-portraits (such a fun exercise—the students loved it!). I came across an activity that plays perfectly into the idea of rhythm and doodles.

There are so many things around us that are rhythmic: the flapping of birds’ wings, the cadence of waves at the beach (or in my case on beautiful Lake Michigan), the rustling of leaves in the breeze. I'm so glad I can hear calming rhythms even when I'm not on the continent of my birth.

Bringing it even closer leads us to this simple activity I invite you to try—either personally, or with your students (or both!). It's inspired by the book Observe, Collect, Draw, and here’s the gist:

1. Choose a rhythm you notice around you (waves, footsteps, breathing, a ticking clock, even your own heartbeat or blinking).
2. Put your pen on the page and let your line follow that rhythm. Long, short, jagged, smooth—let the rhythm guide you.
3. Fill your page with these rhythmic lines. Don’t worry about “what it looks like.” Just notice how repeating the rhythm with your pen calms your mind and makes the pattern your own.

This activity is a beautiful way to connect your inner rhythm with the rhythms of the world around you. It can be calming, grounding, and a fun spark for creativity—whether you’re doodling quietly on your own or leading your students into mindful observation.

If you would love to take a few minutes of Time Out to join my monthly Doodle-Along, the next DoodleU is on Monday, September 22 at 7pm (eastern). I'm pretty sure we'll be delving into rhythm, but who knows!? These doodle sessions are spontaneous and relaxing and fun. I hope you'll join! Here is the link to sign up.

What rhythms have you noticed lately—in nature, in your classroom, or even in your own routines? Hit reply and share your doodle story with me. I always love seeing how creativity shows up in your world.

Doodle On!

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PS. Thank you to those who responded to my last email. It warms my heart to hear from you! I love the stories and the questions about doodling for self care and as a classroom tool. Keep them coming . . . I'm happy to answer questions in upcoming emails too.