Gifts of Nature: 10 Holiday Nature Gift Ideas

Volunteer Dennis Badke, from FoxWood Raptor and Wildlife Rehabilitation presents a Great Horned Owl at Woodlawn Nature Center. It's costly to provide for animals and keep a nature center running. Donations are always appreciated. Thank you! 

It’s easy to get caught up in a buying frenzy during the holiday season; however, the holidays can intentionally be a good time to connect with nature, togetherness, and goodwill. Nature experiences can be a perfect gift that will continue to build memories long after the presents are unwrapped. Here are a variety of nature related gift ideas we enjoy:

• Gift of Memberships—Several area attractions offer memberships. We enjoy memberships as they allow us to stop by for a short time or a long stroll. A state park pass, membership to Woodlawn Nature Center or Wellfield Botanical Gardens, or season pass to Ox Bow County Park could be just perfect. Gifting classes, such as nature preschool at Woodlawn Nature Center, is another great idea. Gift certificates for the toboggan run at Pokagon State Park are also fun.
  
  

Finding Nature After the Storm!

A few other posts related to nature service projects:

River Clean Up

Invasive Species Pull

National Public Lands Day

Service--Outdoor service project ideas and TIPS! 

Working Together--Cleaning up as an extended family at my grandparents' house

Litter Pick Up--Thoughts on picking up trash


I woke up the other day after sleeping blissfully through the night to hear that the big willow tree in my parents' yard was down from the wind the night before. Yes, we slept through ALL of it!

We love that tree! It holds the horse swing, provides shade, graces us with long tendrils, and is a landmark when we're out in the boats. Not only was their tree down, but trees were down in most of the yards around us and branches were everywhere (including ours--just not as obvious). We went to help out the clean up effort and do a little nature exploration.

Some things we found: 

1. The root ball of the willow tree--it made a huge crater underneath! We could see the root system well.

2. A crawdad--it was way back by the house. We never see them back there! Since this one was dead, I think we're saving it for a little dissection soon. That should be very soon before it starts stinking! I know the boys have kept the heads or claws when we've found them before, but never dissected one. 

3. Shadows and the texture of the bark. What cool lines! By the way, all the kayaks and canoe were right there where they were left!  

4. Textures of wood! There was some decay in the tree (reminds me of dental cavities for some reason!). Parts crumbled apart. Near the knots or burls, the wood was quite hard and smooth--it almost reminded us of plastic. There were holes and cavities throughout. I even found a good specimen full of woodpecker holes! I'm keeping that for programs.

 

5. Leaves! We took a walk down to see the tree down over the road. We found pinecones, acorns, and other novelties. We also found lots of branches with leaves intact. We could talk about the different types of oaks, tulip poplar, maples, mulberries, and more! 

6. One of the helpers used her great observation skills and found this lovely dragonfly. They are usually so fast we don't get to see them up close! I had just been watching a TED talk on the migration of dragonflies. How neat to see this beauty in such detail. They have such unique wings--the TED talk mentioned dragonfly wings can independently move separately for great mobility and control, even flying upside down! My friend mentioned they are like helicopters! They also eat mosquito larvae while in the water as larva (10-11 months in freshwater!). 

7. A jungle gym! I personally would have just left the main part of the tree to be a good climbing place for the kids. I even advocated for it and tried to use my kids to advocate for it. But it's not my house. :-) We still enjoyed it while could!

8. Insects! We found rollie pollies, ants carrying large loads, and other decomposers breaking the wood down.

We really did clean up! Honest! We also had lots of fun nature exploration! 

My brother-in-law was there with a chainsaw, my older nephew drove the tractor, the older kids helped some, and a family from church came by to help. Of course, we had to stop and talk to the neighbors to see what all was going on around the area. Even a few days later, I keep seeing more downed trees! 

By the end of the first day, the yard looked miraculously different than when they started that morning. Wow! What a difference! Don't worry, the willow tree will not be leaving us too far. We took some of the "stumps" up to our house (okay, my nephew pulled them in the little trailer) to use for nature play. I'll keep you updated with what we do with them. 

My brother-in-law was there with a chainsaw, my older nephew drove the tractor with trailer, the older kids helped some, and a family from church came by to help. Of course, we had to stop and talk to the neighbors to see what all was going on around the area. Even a few days later, I keep seeing more downed trees! Wonder what else we can explore!

Read About Nature

Day 17: Read About Nature

I started a Nature Book Group with some friends from Indiana Master Naturalists at the beginning of 2013. It's been fun to meet monthly and learn more about nature related topics. I'm including a rather passive activity of reading in 31 Days of Nature Kindness because knowledge is power. Reading books about nature helps us understand how she works! 

When we read Never Cry Wolf we were introduced to the misconceptions and then actual observed behavior of the wolves. Knowing and understand the wolves helps us know how to best provide habitat for this animal and to live amongst local animals. Our discussion looked at how we currently have few, if any, natural predators for deer in our area (as wolves no longer are in the area). Now the deer population is booming! We talked about different methods used to control deer populations. 

Upcoming books include Walden, Alone: Journey of the Boy Sims, and The Bluebird Effect. 

What good nature related books have you read? Reading about nature could take the form of a book group. I enjoy these as I learn from our discussion and can revisit the topic. I find the people in our group often will bring in additional insight and resources. I have been going to one at Woodlawn Nature Center. Fernwood Botanical Gardens and Nature Preserve also has a book group.  Reading about nature could just be reading a book on one's own and applying principles learned and/or sharing information with others. As we learn more about nature, we can be kinder to nature. 

By the way, Never Cry Wolf was 3 weeks late to the library. Oops! That will be a hefty fine!

31 Days of Nature Kindness

In this season of giving, why not take a break from the hustle and bustle to be kind to nature? Being kind to nature can be much more than just "hugging a tree", doesn't have to add much to one's to do list, and is often free! Join us as we look at ways to be kind to NATURE in December!

Day 1: Pick up Trash

Day 2: Share Nature with Others

Day 3: Give a Membership

Day 4: Feed the Birds

Day 5: Share Nature Art with Others

Day 6: Bird Watches

Day 7: Wish Lists

Day 8: Service Projects

Day 9: Indiana Master Naturalists

Day 10: Join INPAWS

Day 11: Recycle

Day 12: Say Thank You

Day 13: Be Kind with Snow Fights

Day 14: Composting

Day 15: Remove Invasive Species

Day 16: Give Cold Weather Gear

Day 17: Read About Nature

Give Cold Weather Gear

Day 16: Give Cold Weather Gear

Let's face it . . . the elements can be brutal at times! It's been nice to have slightly warmer weather recently. I cleaned out my van without a coat on today! However, I will miss the lovely snow we had, though it's supposed to get chilly again.

Today, we went to my son's preschool Christmas Concert. In the lobby of the preschool, they had this "giving tree" covered with hats, gloves, and mittens. I thought it was perfect for nature kindness, as it helps others brave the elements and enjoy (or even tolerate!) the outdoors. I've heard of local ministries going to "tent towns" giving out blankets and cold weather gear to these people.

In our own family, we haven't had great gloves for the boys with this most recent snow. They've love going out to play in it, but would be back in within five minutes for a new pair of gloves. I visited 5 different stores or so and looked online before I found some that seemed like they would work. (Menard's by the way--I didn't see much for kids at Wal-mart, Target, or Sam's Club, though the supply is dwindling) When my 7-year-old son saw his new warm gloves that would be good for the snow, he had a huge smile on his face. They are harder to get on and off, yet he did it over and over again as he knows he will be able to continue working on his snow fort once we get more snow again. If a simple thing like good gloves puts a smile on his face, think of someone who truly needs the gloves and how it can impact them. So, we can be kind to nature by helping others brave the elements. In winter, this may mean donating hats, gloves, scarves, used coats, and blankets. Cold weather gear can make it more possible for others to experience nature.

Shh! There might be more waterproof mittens in their stockings!

Remove Invasive Species

Day 15: Remove Invasive Species

As I look around at the blanket of snow right now, it's hard to think about invasive species! However, they still lurk beneath the surface of the dirt or as sleeping bushes or trees in the winter. They may even look pretty or taste good during their beauty in spring and summer; however, one way to show nature kindness is to help get rid of invasive species.

The kids and I went to a program about Invasive Species at Elkhart County Parks earlier this spring--how informative!

Here is basic information from the Indiana DNR about invasive species, including fish and animals. This site looks at plants more. Indiana Native Plants and Wildflowers will always be a good bet for information on native plants.

Personally, I think starting with garlic mustard is an easy and gratifying way to start eradicating invasive species. While prolific, it's easy to pull and identify. A lot can be cleared at one time. Plus, it's tasty! My kids always ask if they can go pull that weed they can eat.

This video shows how the burning bush transformed the landscape of upstate New York. It is striking, but not quite worth it.

This brochure talks about why various people should care about invasive plants--the hunter, the hiker, boaters, anglers, cyclers, loggers, you! It also shares what people can do.

Beyond pulling invasive plants, planning for future plants can also help combat invasive species. Looking for native plants and/or replacing less desirable invasive species could be a project to start now.

Do an act of nature kindness--get in gear to combat invasive plants now! Often, local parks will host invasive species removals. It's a fun time to work together!

Composting

Day 14: Compost

I cringe every time I see something that could give good nutrients back to the soil as it ends up in a garbage bag. I'm not sure my husband fully understands that. :-) When we lived in Germany, we had curbside pick up of our compostable "bio" waste, aka kitchen scraps. People have used these scraps in many ways, passing it along to the animals or composting it to provide rich nutrients back in the garden.

There are many ways to compost, from having a pile in the backyard (I would say the critters living under the shed often get into this!), creating a frame where the pile can be turned from time to time, or buying one of those barrels that can be turned.

I personally am very fond of vermicomposting. In this method, the worms do most of the work! We bought a special bin, called a Worm Factory 360 , to house our worms. It is stackable, with separate bins  that keep each new "batch" together. It's pretty neat to see the progression of "waste" from the newest scraps down to what is already viable compost at the bottom. We purchased our worms at Worm Woman in Kalamazoo after trying to have them shipped twice. I've heard others just used the red wigglers from the bait shop in a plastic bin with a lid. Air holes are needed. Adding fresh scraps and shredded paper on a regular basis are basically all that is needed. It did take me a little time to figure out how to avoid fruit flies with this, but I found that a thick layer of shredded paper on top pretty much takes care of it. I also don't pay much attention to the worms, feeding them once a week or so. The Worm Factory 360 sits on our kitchen floor. It doesn't smell. My husband was worried about that before we started using it. The bin came with a helpful video to understand how to set it up.

Be kind to nature--recycle the nutrients in your kitchen scraps. :-) How do you compost? 

I found this book helpful as I started learning more about vermicomposting. I had it for several years before I received my Worm Factory 360 for Mother's Day 1 1/2 years ago, reading it regularly to understand what was needed. 

Worms Eat My Garbage: How to Set Up and Maintain a Worm Composting System, 2nd Edition

Be Kind with Snow Fights

Day 13: Be Kind with Snow Fights

We had plenty of snow in the last couple of days. Church is even cancelled for the weekend! It's kind of nice to slow down and just spend time at home. Of course, we had to throw the boys outside to play.

As you can imagine, snowball fights ensued!

Maybe a ball was even thrown into the mix!

My plea for nature kindness today is to be kind with snow! We didn't have any tears at our house today, but I'm sure we have in the past. Many of us have felt that sting of icy crystals hitting our face. Tips for being kind during a snow fight include:

1. Avoid hitting faces, especially rubbing snow all over one's face. Not that that has ever happened to me. Never.

2. Make a fort to protect yourself. You might try hiding behind a tree or other cover. 

3. Make a stash of ammunition. Allow your opponent to do the same.

4. Watch out for the little guys and gals. Their tolerance may be quite less for having snow all over them, especially in the face.

5. Avoid ruining other's creations, unless the other person is in on it and wants to destroy it. 

6. Take a few seconds to truly marvel at the wonder of snow!
7. Be a good sport.
8. Realize accidents happen.

Remember, a snowball fight is supposed to be fun. Read the body and facial cues of the other people to know when things are going to far. Try to call it quits while everyone is happy! Have fun!

Say Thank You

Day 12: Say Thank You!

I volunteer at a local nature center. When I went in today, there was an envelope full of pictures and notes from a field trip not long ago. How sweet! While I'm sure the children were "encouraged" to write these notes by their teachers, I have recently been reminded about how a simple thank you note can make a great impact.

Nature Thank You Notes can be done for many reasons:
1. Give appreciation for a program or event you attended.
2. Say thanks for information that was shared. (I know I have a few friends that follow the blog and frequently share information they know I will be interested in--I should send a thank you note!)
3. Acknowledge the work that goes on behind the scenes in keeping our natural spaces open and available.
4. Recognize the legislation at various levels (city, county, state, country, and international) that help us have green spaces and initiatives.

My challenge to you this week is to send a thank you note! I prefer a handmade, recycled card with a handwritten note; however, sending a few digital pixels of enjoying your time in nature with a short e-mail or Facebook post can also do the trick! The key is to show gratitude for nature and the people behind nature in our area!

By the way, loved these great notes from Pinewood Elementary School in Elkhart and Heritage Intermediate School in Middlebury!

Recycle

Day 11: Recycle!

An easy way to help the environment (a.k.a. nature) is to recycle. In our house, we have an old box for paper and paperboard that can be recycled and another bin (and lots of bags nearby) to collect our glass and plastics. The bins near our house recently have changed how they sort and we basically only need 2 containers plus a separate space for corrugated cardboard.

How is recycling an act of nature kindness? Recycling keeps products out of the landfill and preserves trees. It helps us be aware of our waste.

In South Bend and St. Joseph County, all residents get curbside recycling. That makes it even easier! We usually wait until we have overflowing bins and then take it to a recycling spot next to a nearby grocery store. In Elkhart County, here are a few options, though many of the local trash pick up companies will also pick it up for a fee.

There are also plenty of other ways to keep waste out of the landfill, such as having less waste, using disposable diapers, upcycling, and repurposing.

Indiana Native Plant and Wildflower Society

Day 10: Join INPAWS

Have you heard of INPAWS?

Indiana Native Plant and Wildflower Society INPAWS has a great mission statement as they seek to appreciate, preserve, conserve, utilize and study native plants to Indiana, as well as educate the public about indigenous plants.

I have been very impressed with this group and what they do! I joined their Facebook group early this year. Through interaction on this board, I have learned about plants seasonally that are native our area. I have seen amazing photography and asked questions. I have shared resources I found as well. I have access to good information about why native plants are the way to go. 

INPAWS also has regional chapters that get together on a regular basis. In the northern region, they went on several hikes this past year.

At the state level, INPAWS also has a small grants program and awards for special projects.  

I would suggest if you want to learn more about native plants and encourage the use of native plants in your area that a membership to INPAWS is a great way of paying it forward. Be kind to native plants!

Mayflower! 

Indiana Master Naturalists

Day 9: Indiana Master Naturalists

I have loved being involved with Indiana Master Naturalists! I started with a class last fall, meeting with others once a week for about 3 hours to learn about the natural resources in our area. We met with professionals all over Elkhart County. As part of the class, I received numerous resource books on nature pertinent to our area. The value of the books easily absorbed the cost of the class. People who help with the class area also volunteers, mainly being run by SWCD and Elkhart County Parks. We finished the class with an open note and open book quiz to test our knowledge and effectiveness of the classes. After the course, we are expected to do as many hours of volunteer work as we had in class or 30 hours to maintain an active status. It's a great way to learn and serve and help connect others to nature! I see IMN volunteers at various nature activities. I know they make an impact.

There have also been groups in St. Joseph County in 2012 and at Gene Stratton-Porter's State Historic Site in 2013. Updated schedules can be found at the state Indiana Master Naturalist page.


After the class, I've enjoyed volunteering at various nature-related activities in the area and meeting with other IMN graduates on a quarterly basis. It's fun to touch base, share stories and find others with similar interests. Often, there is a guest speaker, there are often snacks, and we spend a little time socializing as well.

I've written about Indiana Master Naturalists before today. I also really enjoyed the IMN state gathering near Prophetstown State Park this fall. In 2014, it will be held in Elkhart County--nice and close to home!

IMN Potluck

Guest Post by Monica Yoder about Indiana Master Naturalists

IMN Fall Potlucks 2012

Natural Holiday Ornaments

Day 23: Natural Holiday Ornaments

We're working a little more on our 30 Days of Nature Art! Saturday, the planets aligned for us to arrive at the Nature Center at Pokagon State Park just in time for a class on Natural Holiday Ornaments! We were on our way to Ohio and Pokagon was right off the toll road for a quick stop.

The Nature Center staff had created several ornaments as inspiration--what great details, down to the skis! We heard Lauren will be leaving for Texas soon. She remembered us from our previous visits to Pokagon, such as our First Day Hike, Toboggan Run, Sledding, Winter Nature Center visit, and President's Day visit. We've gone other times, but haven't blogged about them all, enjoying bubbles, turtle sitting, and the Spring Shelter. 

I really appreciated how they had lots of supplies out and categorized to use!

There were many options, each in their own container. I may steal their set up ideas for future programs! :-)

Notice the jacket on the floor in the background? While this child immediately knew what he wanted to make, his jacket almost always ends up in a heap wherever he decides to take it off. Of course, we took a break to clear the pathways before he got too deep into the gluing. Tacky glue and glue guns were out. Both work well, but the glue guns set faster. They are also a little more dangerous, so the adults used the glue gun as the children directed our efforts!

I was very impressed with my husbands efforts for his "dude". 

There were a few items that didn't come straight from outside, like white cotton stuffing. My son used that to help with his Santa.

This younger guy tried the Tacky glue, but eventually realized the hot glue would keep it together better. 

Here is my creation--a snowflake of sorts! It's huge, though, so I will have to find a special place to hang it! The boys each made their own creation, with access to plenty of loose parts! I loved seeing what they came up with!

We spent a little time at the Nature Center before we headed on to Ohio. I like how this entry shelf always has seasonal items and changes most times when we visit. 

We always like checking out the bird feeders while at the Nature Center. There were plenty of Tufted Titmice while we were there and a big, fat squirrel! We also saw their wish list. I wrote a post about Wish Lists as part of the 31 Days of Nature Kindness series. They are in need of safflower seed. We purchased our 2014 State Parks pass as we entered--we're ready for plenty of outdoor exploration in 2014! I like that my husband suggested we go ahead and buy it! I'm usually the nature pusher, yet he recognizes that it is good for our family, too. I also like that having a park pass lets us just stop by the state parks for an hour if that is all the time we have. We don't feel like we have to get all our money's worth with just one stop as we know we'll be back numerous times. We have options and can just enjoy a small section at a time.