Lynx, Ohio

In the “little smokies” of Adams County

As the name suggests, our 27 acres are diverse with woods, a one-acre pond and fields of prairie flowers and grasses.  Our vision is to offer a space where reflection and refreshment take place, as folks leave their busy routines behind.  The views from the front porch swing will help.  And a walk on the "Refresher Course,"  the footpath that winds throughout the property, will allow you to rediscover your senses...and perhaps, yourself.  We extend an invitation to all who value times of solitude, discovery of the natural world, and a deepening of their spiritual lives.

 

One-Day Retreats ( 10 am - 5 pm )
Design your own group retreat at Prairie Pond Woods, or choose a Women in Repose retreat (see list below).  Owner and naturalist, Cindy Steffen, begins the morning with a Discovery Hike, then serves up a healthy lunch.  Afternoon content and discussion times end with an opportunity for solitude, perhaps relaxing in one of the Adirondack chairs along the “Refresher Course.”  There you can think, read, pray or just let your imagination wander.  A brief wrap-up with snacks follows before your departure.

                                          Rates : $45.00 per person   Group size: Minimum 6, Maximum 10 (unless otherwise noted)

 

Overnight Rentals
Though we try to keep the weekends open for group retreats, the two-bedroom cedar house may be available to accommodate an individual or a couple for a short or extended personal get-a-way…full of wildflower viewing, hiking, bird watching, or photography.  Prairie Pond Woods is the perfect creative space for artist, musicians, and writers, or for those seeking spiritual direction.  Call for weekday or weekend availability. The house has a living room, fully equipped kitchen, covered front porch, deck, Heat/AC, and a wood-                                                burning stove.  One queen bed and one daybed with trundle are available. 
                                                Sorry, no pets allowed and no TV available. 
 

                                  Rates: $125.00 per night for 1-3 nights   t    $115.00 per night for 4 nights or more. 
                                      (Check-in: after 3:00 pm  
t Check-out: after 12:00 pm )

 

 Places to Visit Nearby
Adams Country is full of interesting places, all within a 30-minute drive. The next road over is Lynx Prairie, a National Natural Landmark.  Both The Wilderness Trail and Buzzard's Roost Trail, part of The Nature Conservancy’s Edge of Appalachia Preserve system, are less than 15 minutes away.  A drive to Shawnee State Park and Lodge takes only 25 minutes.  Many Adams County Amish businesses, including hand-made furniture, farm markets and bakeries, are also nearby.

So, come away...and rest. 
Call 937-532-6688 for reservations or
email at
cindy@heartbynature.com    

                              

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2008 "WOMEN IN REPOSE"  Retreats

Women in Repose is a series of monthly retreats geared towards women interested in discovering their true hearts, and  the heart of God’s through nature, solitude and community with other wise women.  Retreats are held monthly, April through November.  They are Christian-based but all are welcome.
Retreat Director, Cindy Steffen, has been seeking the heart of the genuine Jesus for over 30 years.  In that time (and struggle) she has worked as an artist, interior designer and naturalist.  God has brought all of these particular talents together, and given her the desire of her heart through
 Heart By Nature Retreats.   See below for the list of 2008 retreats.

 

April 26
Discovering the Nature of God...Feathers & Petals

Migrating warblers and spring ephemerals capture our attention, as we wander the paths and ponder the nature parables that Jesus used to teach us about living as children of God.  "Consider the birds of the air....."

May 10
Mother & Daughter Retreat

Bring your daughter(s) or other young woman in your life for a day of hiking, crafts and fellowship. We'll see the wisdom of God in nature and through the stories of other wise women. (Ages 12 & up)

June 21
Creation Stewardship & Christian Simplicity Retreat

God says the earth is good but how is the church involved in "tending the garden?"  We'll consider why living simply and caring for Creation are "loving your neighbor" issues, and a humble witness to the world.    

July 19
Discovering the Nature of God...Wing Beats & Heart Beats

This is the perfect time to see butterflies and dragonflies doing exactly what God made them to do.  Are you living your truest life? Find out how our hearts can beat in synch with how God made us.

August 2 & 9
NO RETREATS
10 am-5 pm / $30.00 

Prairie Pond Woods is available for Home School moms needing uninterrupted planning time for curriculums.  Lunch is included.  Groups and individuals are welcome.  Minimum 4 / Maximum 6.

September 20
Silent Retreat - Break-fast & Prayer 

What a wonderful time of the year to be outside…thinking, praying, writing, listening…as we examine our lives and ask God to teach us to “number our days.”  A pre-retreat fast is optional.

October 18
Discovering the Nature of God...Losing color / finding contentment.

In autumn trees change from verdant to vibrant to…brown!  But are they done being interesting, beautiful or important? Not on your life!  If you’re over 40...you might want to come to this one!

November 1
Sharing the Sacred

Starting in November, life can get a bit crazy.  We’ll discuss how to create and share the holidays in peace, through re-evaluating, planning and simplifying traditions.Tips and resources available.

All retreats begin at 10:00 am and close at 5:00 pm…with a lot of flexibility at either end.
Call 937-532-6688 for reservations or more information

 

Cost - $45.00 per person (6 min & 10 max)
Groups of 6 or more registering together-$40.00 per person

Contact Cindy Steffen @ 937-532-6688 or cindy@heartbynature for reservations or more information
A 50% Deposit is required within one week of a phone or email reservation

Send check(s) made out to Heart By Nature Retreats
2330 Schnebly Rd, Spring Valley, Ohio, 45370
937-532-6688

(Subject to change.  Please check back for any updates)

Women in Repose or self-directed group retreats can be conducted on other dates that fit your schedule
Call for available dates.