Just as seedlings need nurturing to sprout and grow, an attitude of gratitude is something that is cultivated with care and dedicated attention. ‘An attitude of gratitude brings great things.’ (Yogi Bhajan) These words ring true when we look back at another wonderful day at nature school.
The Herons were eager to draw names and create gratitude pinecones for each other when they arrived. Special qualities of each person were recognized, and eagerly presented during our ‘giving thanks’ lunch. It was so heart-warming to see the smiles on the faces of the kids these sentiments were shared.
Tree friends teach us gratitude as they change over the seasons. You took time to think about your trees best qualities. What makes them special? Comparing leaves helps us to see how our tree friends might be related to one another. We discovered there is a large Silver Maple family as well as a healthy clan of Basswood at the pond. Take a look around your neighbourhood. Can you spot any trees that could be related?
Part of loving leaves is understanding their mysteries. Chromatography is an technique that reveals hidden colours just like leaves in autumn. The results were amazing and really helped gain a better understanding of how leaves are able to change colours. Tell this story at home.
Do you remember what is meant by an ‘honourable harvest? We were curious to find out what natural materials are ready to eaten by animals or harvested by humans at this time of year. On our collection/harvest walk we gathered a few samples so we could share and compare them. See if you can remember what your items were. Everyone chose one seed to plant and care for over the winter so that it could be replanted in the spring. What does being a good ‘plant parent’ look like?
Grey Squirrel presented each of us with a gratitude stone. We sewed small pouches to hold our stones. Each time we take our stone out of the pouch, we need to think of one thing we are grateful for. Share the Gratitude Stones poem with your family this weekend.
We also scoured the library to find things on a hiking scavenger hunt. Tell your parents which items you were able to find!
Mystery Forest was the sight of our incredible thanksgiving “potluck” meal. We had pinecone eggrolls, sweet cucumber cups, and outstanding dirt pie! Tell the story of what you created at wander time for this feast.
Of course there was so much to remember about our experiences. What did you decide to share inside the covers of your treasured nature notebook.
So rub your hands together, gathering warmth and energy. Now send that off to thank all the Nature Mentors whose hours of work and dedication made this day a celebration to remember!
Sweet dreams beautiful Forest Friends:)
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