Celestial inspiration in this light pollution free zone is one of the best reasons to spend time here for a residency. And during the day you can hug donkeys, take walks into a rural rolling hill landscape, and sink into a different pace of life.

That means the annual Perseids Meteor Shower should be on your bucket list especially if you live in an urban environment. These are evenings where you'll want to be up late, hang out in an adirondack or on the porch and gaze at the colorful action. "The Perseids is one of the best meteor showers to observe, producing up to 60 meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by comet Swift-Tuttle, which was discovered in 1862. The Perseids are famous for producing a large number of bright meteors. The shower runs annually from July 17 to August 24. It peaks this year on the night of August 11 and the morning of August 12. The first quarter moon will block out some of the fainter meteors in the early evening. But the Moon will set shortly after midnight leaving dark skies for what could be an excellent early morning show. Best viewing will be from a dark location after midnight. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Perseus, but can appear anywhere in the sky." -seasky.org

If 'summer' is the only time you can get on the road for a residency or retreat, then consider spending a week or two in the foothills of Appalachia where you can venture daily to our private spot on the Buffalo River. If nature is your muse, inspiration, or collaborator, then you will want to relish in the lusciousness of the environment at our rural location. Many from outside the area typically comment on how green it is here. By August, some of the leaves will start to change as the days are shorter, but it's still a time to connect to your inner child feeling the last bits of 'summer'.

If you are in academics, get one last dose of creative flexibility and freedom before another academic year envelopes you.

Take advantage of the low light pollution in this special area called the Western Highland Rim of mid-south Tennessee. Make sure to take time to star-gaze!

The new moon is August 4th so you will be able to see the Milky way on clear nights. The full moon is August 19 (a blue moon).

Minimum stay is one week. Apply today to secure your spot for this year's star-gazing residency opportunity. Visit the program f.a.q. page for more information.