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If someone were to ask you to name an animal that hibernates, you’d probably say “a bear.” But for many years, some people did not consider them true hibernators. When animals such as chipmunks and ground squirrels hibernate, their body temperatures drop drastically. A bear’s body temperatures does not decrease nearly as much. And, unlike …

It’s almost Valentine’s Day!. This week, head outside with a camera or cell phone and find some hearts in nature!   Photo by keencarlene   Photo by pippalou     Featured image by pippalou

Some people experience the “winter blues,”  a feeling of sadness or depression that can come with the shorter, colder days of winter.  If you’re feeling low, here are some seasonal activities to try as you wait for the sunnier months:  Try remixed snow art: Add color to your snowman or snow angel with spray bottles …

Depending on where you live, you may see a lot less wildlife during the winter months. Insects have either gone into a dormant state or died off. Some mammals hibernate. Reptiles and amphibians go into a state of brumation. Many birds migrate to warmer areas.  But there is still wildlife around. This weekend, go on …

During these uncertain times, you may be feeling anxious or overwhelmed. Did you know that nature can help you de-stress? That’s why Outdoorosity is creating a special (and timely) de-stress kit! As part of the kit, author Jo Watson Hackl presents this video to help you discover things you can do in the evenings to …

What would you do if you had an invitation to see a sunrise off the Blue Ridge Parkway? Last fall, I received just such an invitation from some friends, so I jumped at the opportunity. Waking up at 4:15 in the morning was harder than I that it would be, but I managed to roll …

During the winter months, the birds in your yard will appreciate an extra food supply. You can purchase a feeder or make your own. Here are some ideas to try:   Here are some ideas to try: Milk Carton Bird Feeders  Teacup Bird Feeders  Pinecone Bird Feeder  Planter Dish Bird Feeder  Lego Bird Feeder      …

Nature journaling isn’t just for the warmer months! If you don’t already have a nature journal, you can make one with just some printer paper and a few staples. Simply fold it in half and staple it down the side. Then head outside and start drawing!  Not sure what to include in your journal? Click …

Take out those nature journals (or just some paper) and draw some winter trees. Because there aren’t many leaves, it’s easy to see the tree trunks and branches. You might draw a close-up of the bark, the roots, or a branch. It’s a good time to study the shapes of various trees, too.   

For many of us, 2020 will be remembered as one of the most difficult and challenging years, and we’re happy to see it go. Yet while we can’t always control the situations or circumstances we have to deal with, there are things we can do to find some stress-relief — including heading outside! Even small …

Looking for a last-minute gift idea? Pull out those rose petals you’ve been saving and make some facial scrub from things you likely already have in your pantry (and create a gift for yourself in the process)! As those of you who know me well or follow me on social media already know, I love …

Is the weather snowy where you live? If so, chances are you’ve made a snowman, snowballs, and even a snow fort. But have you ever made a snow maze? All you need is a yard full of snow and some willing participants to shuffle, stomp, and move through the snow. Need more inspiration? Check out …

Looking for some DIY decorating ideas? You can keep the holiday spirit going by making homemade wreaths. Here’s a great tutorial that uses a wire wreath frame, floral wire, and the greenery you can find outside!     Photo by gleangeanie    

‘Tis the season to decorate, and what better way to decorate than with free natural items you find outdoors? This weekend, send the family outside on a pinecone hunt. Then bring your bounty in to create some holiday decorations. Click here for some ideas to try!      Photo by krosseel  

If you live in an area where the weather has turned chilly, consider setting out some feeders for your feathered neighbors. Although wild birds are very capable of finding what they need to eat, providing them with seeds and fruit makes their job much easier. Wondering what to feed them? Check out this article by …

This week, find a friend or family member and take a nature walk together. As you go, take turns naming things in nature you are thankful for and why. They could be things you see during your walk, or they could be things inspired by what you see. The fresh air and gratitude are sure …

You don’t have to go camping to build a campfire! This weekend, build one in your own backyard. REI has some great tips on how to start a roaring campfire here. Need to build a fire pit? Here are some very simple directions. Even if it’s cold outside, family and friends will be able warm …

One weekend in mid-November, some friends and I decided to hike up to the Chimneys in Linville Gorge near Morganton, North Carolina. It was a bit of a drive from where we started, especially when the pavement slowly turned to gravel, and the potholes became bigger. However, we continued driving up the mountain on the …

Check online for corn mazes in your area. (This site is a good starting point). Then head out with friends or family to give it a try!    Photo by keencarlene

Your family can celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday all month long by creating a Thankful Tree. Here’s what you’ll need:   Supplies: Roll of brown bulletin board paper, butcher paper, or packaging paper Red, yellow, and orange construction paper or cardstock Markers Sticky tack or masking tape Fall Leaves Pencil Scissors Bags for collecting leaves To Make …